AEW Files Motion to Dismiss $250 Million Plagiarism Lawsuit

The professional wrestling industry is constantly evolving, which can make it difficult to maintain fresh and original storylines and characters. Recently, a wrestler filed a plagiarism lawsuit against both WWE and AEW, alleging unauthorized use of his intellectual property. In response, AEW has filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit.

Anthony Duane Wilson’s lawsuit against WWE and AEW involved serious allegations of plagiarism. Wilson claimed that both companies used his creative works—such as wrestling gimmicks, names, slogans, and likenesses—without his permission. He argued that this unauthorized use not only disrupted his plans to start his own wrestling promotion but also hindered his discussions with Bullet Club members about joining his venture.

Wilson alleged that the misuse of his intellectual property by WWE and AEW caused significant harm, affecting his market, reputation, and finances. He accused both companies of exploiting his work without proper acknowledgement or compensation and intentionally obstructing his career.

On November 3, 2023, Judge Benita Y. Pearson dismissed the lawsuit because neither WWE nor AEW had been properly served with the legal papers within 90 days of the initial filing in August 2023. The case was closed, pending Wilson’s ability to refile and ensure proper service. Wilson had initially sought $250 million in damages and the return of his intellectual property. Following the dismissal, he decided to refile the lawsuit and ensure both AEW and WWE were properly served.

According to PWInsider, attorneys for AEW have filed a response with the United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, arguing that the lawsuit brought against them and WWE by Anthony Duane Wilson should be dismissed. Wilson, who is currently incarcerated in Ohio, has accused both companies of various damages including plagiarism and financial harm.

AEW’s response points out that Wilson’s recent filing on July 19, 2024, does not address the arguments presented by AEW in their motion to dismiss. The response primarily includes irrelevant points such as a previously denied motion to stay and challenges to WWE’s jurisdictional arguments, with minimal reference to AEW’s dismissal arguments.

Wilson briefly mentions the possibility of expediting some copyright registrations, but since registration is a prerequisite for a copyright infringement claim and Wilson lacks proper registration, his copyright claim should be dismissed. AEW also notes that Wilson does not address the other arguments for dismissal, such as lack of evidence for trademark infringement, trade secrets misappropriation, or violations under the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act.

AEW concludes that, due to Wilson’s failure to effectively counter their arguments, they respectfully request the court to dismiss the amended complaint in its entirety, with prejudice.

The inmate also sees five-year prison sentences for AEW and WWE. We have also reported that the lawsuit cannot be dismissed. The result of the revised lawsuit could have a major effect on both wrestling companies and set a precedent for similar cases. It’s uncertain how the case will progress, as it currently seems like an uphill battle for the plaintiff.

What do you think of this bizarre lawsuit? Do you feel the lawsuit has merit? Let us know in the comments section below!