Legal Clash Over Trademark
SALT LAKE CITY — A legal clash has emerged between the Utah Mammoth, a franchise in the National Hockey League, and a manufacturer specializing in hockey equipment bags. The ownership of the Mammoth has initiated a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Utah as part of an ongoing trademark conflict with Mammoth Hockey LLC.
Claims and Counterclaims
In their claim, officials from the Smith Entertainment Group, which oversees the team, endorse their right to the name “Utah Mammoth” under both federal and state regulations. They assert that their branding will not adversely affect the rival company’s business operations.
This action has been taken after careful consideration in light of the defendant’s stance, as we firmly believe in our right to this trademark.
The recent legal action follows the franchise’s rebranding announcement in May, when they debuted the name and corresponding logo after completing their inaugural season in Salt Lake City. Previously, the team operated as the Utah Hockey Club upon relocating from Arizona.
Cease-and-Desist Order
However, shortly after the unveiling of the Mammoth’s new title, the Oregon-based Mammoth Hockey filed a cease-and-desist order. They argued that the similarities between the two entities – which both feature mammoth-themed logos and operate within the same hockey milieu – could potentially confuse consumers and dissuade supporters from purchasing their hockey-related merchandise.
Company’s Defense
Mammoth Hockey, established in 2014, specializes in crafting large bags tailored for hockey players. Co-founder Erik Olson expressed the company’s intent to proactively defend its trademark rights, stating that they have been steadfast in their production and sale of hockey goods over the last decade.
We are prepared to vigorously contest the litigation initiated by Utah Mammoth to safeguard our established brand.
