BUSINESS

United States rejects competing 'Iceman' trademark bids

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Washington — The United States Patent and Trademark Office has issued rulings that place Basketball Hall of Famer George Gervin and Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams in direct conflict over federal trademark rights to the nickname "Iceman." In office actions dated June 24 and June 26, 2026, USPTO examining attorneys notified both men that their respective applications face significant obstacles. The agency advised Gervin that his pending application for the standalone "Iceman" mark could be refused because Williams filed an application for the identical mark earlier, giving Williams priority if his application ultimately proceeds to registration. Washington — The USPTO also issued an initial refusal of Gervin’s separate application for the mark "Iceman 44," finding a likelihood of confusion with an existing federal registration for "Iceman" owned by Oregon-based LaCrosse Footwear. LaCrosse has held that registration since 1988 for a line of insulated boots and boot liners. The same 1988 registration led the USPTO to initially refuse Williams’s application to use "Iceman" on clothing and apparel, with the examining attorney concluding that consumers might mistakenly believe his merchandise is associated with or produced by LaCrosse Footwear. As a result, both Gervin and Williams currently face overlapping trademark refusals tied to the longstanding footwear mark.

Prepared by Christopher Adams and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

1988 LaCrosse Footwear registers 'Iceman' trademark
June 24, 2026 USPTO initially refuses Williams application
June 24, 2026 Examiner cites LaCrosse confusion risk
June 26, 2026 USPTO issues actions to parties
June 26, 2026 Gervin warned of priority conflict
June 26, 2026 Gervin's 'Iceman 44' initially refused
Late June 2026 Multi-party 'Iceman' dispute intensifies

Why This Matters to You

This trademark tussle affects how you shop. If you're a fan of Gervin, Williams, or LaCrosse Footwear, it could change what merchandise you find. It's a reminder to check who really makes your favorite branded items.

The Bottom Line

Trademark disputes can get messy and take time to resolve. It's unclear when or how this 'Iceman' battle will end. For now, both Gervin and Williams face hurdles in their trademark quests. Worth forwarding if you know a sports fan or trademark trivia buff.