NFL MVP Lamar Jackson is currently in the midst of a trademark dispute with Pro Football Hall of Famer Troy Aikman over the shared use of the number 8. Jackson, who has filed trademarks for various phrases incorporating the number 8, claims that Aikman’s attempt to use “EIGHT” on apparel and bags could cause confusion among consumers.
Jackson’s attorney argues that the quarterback has invested significant time and resources in promoting the number 8 in connection with his personal brand. Jackson is widely recognized by this number due to his fame and the use of the number in his trademarks. He has filed appeals against a company linked to Aikman that owns trademarks for the use of “Eight” on a variety of consumer products.
According to intellectual property expert Christine Farley, trademark ownership extends to almost anything, including numbers. The appearance and usage of a trademark can influence legal decisions. Currently, there are thousands of live registered or pending trademarks containing the word “eight” or the numeral “8.” Aikman’s legal team may argue that consumers would not be confused by the presence of a number when making purchases.
Lamar Jackson and Troy Aikman are not the only prominent figures associated with the number 8. Hall of Fame quarterback Steve Young, as well as baseball legends like Cal Ripken Jr., Yogi Berra, and Carl Yastrzemski, have all worn the number on their jerseys. In basketball, icons such as Kobe Bryant and Walt Bellamy also donned the number 8. Even in hockey, Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin has been associated with the number.
As the legal battle between Lamar Jackson and Troy Aikman unfolds, the outcome will have implications for the use of numbers in trademarks. While some may question the ownership of a numeral, the reality is that trademarks can cover a wide range of elements. Both sides will need to present strong arguments to support their claims in this high-profile dispute over the number 8.
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