Cody Rhodes and WWE Reach Settlement in “American Nightmare” Trademark Lawsuit – A legal dispute between musician Wesley Eisold and WWE star Cody Rhodes appears to be nearing its conclusion. According to Brandon Thurston of Wrestlenomics, a settlement has been reached in principle in the lawsuit Eisold filed against Rhodes, WWE, and merchandise partner Fanatics regarding the use of the “American Nightmare” trademark.

Court documents filed on Tuesday confirm that both sides have agreed to resolve the matter, pending the final drafting and signing of a written settlement agreement. The lawsuit, filed in September 2024 in federal court in California, accused WWE and Fanatics of violating a 2021 agreement that permitted Rhodes to use the “American Nightmare” name under specific conditions.

Eisold, the frontman of the band Cold Cave, claimed that WWE and Fanatics sold merchandise prominently displaying the “American Nightmare” phrase without proper attribution to Rhodes or sufficient indication that the products were wrestling-related. He argued this created confusion with his band’s prior use of the name.

Under the original 2021 agreement, Rhodes reportedly paid Eisold $30,000 for the rights to use “American Nightmare” as part of his wrestling persona and brand. However, that agreement required WWE merchandise to make clear that the branding was tied to Rhodes and not to Eisold’s music project.

Eisold sought damages of at least $150,000 and possible treble damages, meaning the court could have awarded up to three times the actual damages if it determined the infringement was willful.

While the settlement’s details have not been disclosed, the agreement effectively brings an end to the high-profile trademark dispute surrounding Rhodes’ signature moniker — one that has become central to his WWE identity and merchandise since his return to the company.

Cody Rhodes and WWE Reach Settlement in “American Nightmare” Trademark Lawsuit

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