Big moves coming out of the AEW front office, folks, and this time it’s all about honoring the legacy of one of wrestling’s all-time greats: Owen Hart. That’s right, AEW has just filed two new trademarks with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, and it looks like they’re doubling down on Owen’s legendary nickname, “King of Harts.” One thing’s for sure—this isn’t just about filling out paperwork. It’s about keeping Owen’s legacy alive in and out of the ring.
So, what are these trademarks for, you ask? Well, the first one is for educational and entertainment purposes, meaning AEW wants to make sure they can keep talking about Owen on their shows without any legal roadblocks. Expect to hear a lot more about his time as an IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Champion and, of course, his 1994 King of the Ring victory—because “King of Harts” is a moniker you just don’t forget.
The second trademark? Oh, it’s merch time, baby. We’re talking action figures, shirts, and maybe even some King of Harts branded wrestling boots for all the collectors out there. AEW is no stranger to immortalizing Owen; he’s already an unlockable character in their “AEW Fight Forever” video game, which is the first time fans could play as “The Rocket” since the 2004 game Showdown: Legends of Wrestling. And now, with this new trademark, it seems like there’s even more Owen-themed merch coming down the line.
For those keeping up, AEW’s been working closely with Owen’s widow, Dr. Martha Hart, and her Owen Hart Foundation, a charity that supports underprivileged youths through scholarships. This partnership started in 2021 and gave birth to the annual Owen Hart Cup Tournament, which happens every summer and crowns winners in both the men’s and women’s divisions.
WWE, of course, was never able to use Owen’s name and likeness due to the tragic circumstances of his death at a 1999 pay-per-view. But AEW has stepped up in a big way, ensuring that the legacy of Owen Hart lives on—one trademark, one action figure, one heartfelt tribute at a time.