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Nightmare Factory Files ‘Turnbuckle Championship Wrestling’ Trademark
In a move that bridges the past with the future of professional wrestling, Nightmare Factory LLC, led by WWE star Cody Rhodes, has recently filed for the trademark of “Turnbuckle Championship Wrestling.” This strategic initiative not only marks a new era for the brand but also pays homage to the original TCW, a significant promotion in wrestling history established by Cody’s father, the legendary Dusty Rhodes.
The trademark application, filed under the Nightmare Factory LLC banner, is a clear nod to the legacy of the original Turnbuckle Championship Wrestling. Founded in 2000 by Dusty Rhodes in Marietta, Georgia, TCW quickly became a staple in the Southeastern independent wrestling scene. The trademark, filed for standard characters without claim to any particular font style, size, or color, covers a range of merchandise and entertainment services. This includes apparel like hats, shirts, and sweatshirts under International Class 025, and various entertainment services related to wrestling contests under International Class 041.
The original TCW, during its three years of operation until 2003, made a significant impact in the Southern United States, particularly in Atlanta, Georgia, and Dothan, Alabama. It was known for its cooperative efforts with other promotions, including Florida Championship Wrestling, and for hosting interpromotional shows. With a successful weekly television series in the Atlanta-Macon area, TCW showcased a wide array of talents, including high-profile wrestlers who joined after the closure of World Championship Wrestling and Extreme Championship Wrestling in 2001.
The roster of the original TCW was a mix of seasoned veterans and upcoming stars. It featured names like Sean Evans, Disco Inferno, David Flair, and Dustin Rhodes, who was also wrestling in World Wrestling Entertainment as Goldust. The promotion was a melting pot for ongoing rivalries, new narratives, and the formation of stables like ‘The Extreme Horsemen,’ featuring ex-ECW stars such as Steve Corino and Barry Windham.
Dusty Rhodes’s vision for TCW was to create a promotion that merged traditional southern wrestling with modern elements. His experience as a former booker and television producer played a crucial role in the promotion’s initial success, culminating in the first official TCW event on July 6, 2000, in Ashburn, Georgia. However, despite its promising start and ambitious plans, including a potential live pay-per-view event, TCW ceased operations in 2003.
Now, with Nightmare Factory LLC’s acquisition of the “Turnbuckle Championship Wrestling” trademark, Cody Rhodes is set to rejuvenate and modernize the TCW brand. The application demonstrates an intent to extend the TCW legacy into new realms of wrestling entertainment and merchandise. Managed by attorney Michael E. Dockins, this step by Nightmare Factory is a blend of strategic business acumen and a heartfelt tribute to a storied past.
This trademark filing is significant not just for the Rhodes family but for the entire wrestling community. It represents a commitment to preserving wrestling history while adapting to the evolving landscape of entertainment. As the wrestling world watches, the revival of TCW under this new banner by Nightmare Factory LLC could signal the dawn of a new chapter in professional wrestling history, honoring the past while forging a dynamic future.
