NFL Opposes XFL’s Trademark for Houston Roughnecks Logo

The NFL, which still owns trademark rights around the Houston Oilers trademarks, has filed an opposition against the XFL’s trademark application for the Houston Roughnecks logo.

In the documents filed on December 28, the NFL contends that the Roughnecks logo is too similar to that of the former Houston Oilers team.

The Houston Oilers Logo vs. The Houston Roughnecks Logo
The Houston Oilers Logo vs. The Houston Roughnecks Logo

The NFL goes on to note that although the Houston Oilers moved to Tennessee and changed its name to the Tennessee Titans, the Oilers mark still retains valuable goodwill and consumer recognition. As a matter of fact, the NFL pointed out that they still sell merchandise with the old Oilers logo.

The NFL concludes the opposition by stating that consumers encountering the XFL’s mark, particularly in connection with the XFL’s services (in this case football games), are likely to associate the mark with the NFL’s former team, the Oilers.

Josh Gerben, Esq.

Josh Gerben, Esq. is the founder and principal of Gerben IP. In 2008, Mr. Gerben started the firm to provide high-quality trademark services at reasonable prices. Today, he is recognized by the World Trademark Review as a top trademark filer, having registered over 7,500 trademarks. The contents of this blog are for informational purposes only and may not be relied on as legal advice.

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