Kobe Bryant may be auditioning for a new nickname in the near future.
TMZ Sports reported Tuesday that Roger Mayweather, former boxing champion-turned trainer to nephew Floyd Mayweather Jr., has filed a trademark application with the United States Patent and Trademark Office in an attempt to gain exclusive rights to the nickname, "Black Mamba." He wants to be known as Roger "Black Mamba" Mayweather.
According to TMZ Sports, Mayweather was watching a nature show about reptiles years ago and learned about the snakes then. He gave himself that nickname.
TMZ added that official documents indicate Mayweather is closing in on obtaining the trademark use of "Black Mamba," which he intends to use for branding purposes in connection with his boxing business, which includes personal training and coaching.
Bryant started using the "Black Mamba" moniker during the Los Angeles Lakers' championship years in 2009-10. Bryant explained to Conan O'Brien that the "Black Mamba" is his alter ego, which he uses as an intimidation tactic.
Nike even did a commercial that included singer Kanye West and actors Bruce Willis and Danny Trejo in introducing Bryant as the "Black Mamba."
TMZ Sports checked to see whether Bryant had ever submitted any trademark claims on the use of "Black Mamba," but couldn't find any paperwork from the Lakers superstar.
It added that several other entities did submit applications for use of "Black Mamba" - such as condom brands, carbonated drinks, male enhancement products, spinal implants and cigars, to name a few.
Apparently, none of those applications resulted in any exclusivity.
TMZ reported that it attempted to contact Bryant's representatives but never received a response.
© Copyright 2024 Sports World News, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
