Merriman Suing Nike Over Lights Out Name
SAN DIEGO (AP) — Former NFL linebacker Shawne Merriman is suing Nike for trademark infringement and unfair competition over its Lights Out apparel line.
The suit, filed on behalf of Merriman's Lights Out Holdings LLC, was filed in U.S. District Court on Monday.
According to the suit, after Nike and Merriman unsuccessfully negotiated to create a Lights Out apparel line in 2006 or 2007, the company used the name anyway.
The lawsuit says Merriman acquired the federal trademark rights for Lights Out in 2007.
He was nicknamed "Lights Out" after knocking out opponents in a high school game.
The suit demands an injunction to stop trademark infringement and related unfair business practices, as well as damages to be determined at trial.
A Nike spokesman said the company doesn't comment on litigation.
(© Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)