Finnegan achieves trademark victory on laches for MMA Team Quest gyms

Finnegan represented former Olympic silver medalist Matt Lindland and his Team Quest mixed martial arts (MMA) gyms in defense a claim of trademark infringement asserted by a former colleague and well-known UFC fighter, Dan Henderson, on the basis of Lindland’s use of the name Team Quest for MMA facilities and merchandise. Because of Henderson’s knowledge of Lindland’s long standing use of the name, the court held that any relief sought by Henderson with respect to Lindland’s use of the Team Quest name was barred by laches. In particular, the court rejected Henderson’s assertion of inevitable confusion even though both parties showcase fighters in internationally syndicated events and provide online sales of branded merchandise. On appeal, the 9th Circuit affirmed the lower court’s decision. Henderson filed a petition for rehearing en banc, which was been denied.