Chuck Liddell, the UFC MMA athlete, filed for a trademark for 'The Iceman' in 2023, which is still pending approval. On March 16, Caleb Williams, Chicago Bears quarterback, submitted four trademark applications related to the 'Iceman' moniker.
What happened?
The USPTO rejected Williams' application due to a likelihood of confusion with a shoe company, LaCrosse Footwear, which filed a trademark for insulated boots and boot liners called Iceman in 1988.
San Antonio Spurs Legend George Gervin, also known as the Iceman, submitted two trademark applications for 'Iceman' and 'Iceman 44' on March 20, to preserve his legacy.
Why it matters for Chuck Liddell
Chuck Liddell's claim to the 'Iceman' nickname is based on his career as a premier fighter in the golden age of MMA, competing from 1999 to 2018.
The trademark dispute involves not only athletes but also Canadian rapper Drake, who released an album called 'Iceman' in May and refers to himself as the titular Iceman.
What comes next?
The USPTO is still reviewing Williams' trademark application, and it remains to be seen how the dispute will be resolved, with multiple parties claiming rights to the 'Iceman' nickname.
On March 16, Williams filed his 'Iceman' trademark applications through his business, Caleb Williams Holding Inc. Four days later, Gervin submitted his trademark applications to combat Williams' attempt to claim the nickname.
Gervin's teammate, Fatty Taylor, gave him the moniker 'Iceman' in the early '70s due to his calm and cool nature on the court. Taylor initially called him 'Iceberg Slim' but later shortened it to 'Iceman'.
The reason Williams trademarked the nickname was to prevent people from making money off merchandise using the nickname he earned through his play, including a miraculous playoff win against the Green Bay Packers in 2026.
Drake made fun of Williams by wearing a vintage Packers jacket to promote his 'Iceman' album, but he currently has no pending Iceman-related trademark applications.
The trademark dispute highlights the importance of protecting one's image and likeness in the world of sports and entertainment, with athletes and celebrities seeking to capitalize on their nicknames and branding.
Chuck Liddell's pending trademark application for 'The Iceman' is still under review, and the outcome of the dispute will determine who has the rights to the iconic nickname.