If Randy Orton Leaves WWE for AEW, Would the RKO Finishing Move Need to Be Renamed?
The enigmatic Randy Orton has been a cornerstone of WWE since 2003, using his RKO finishing move as a symbol of his dominance in the wrestling ring. One intriguing question is whether the RKO would need to be renamed if Orton were to leave WWE for another promotion, such as AEW (All Elite Wrestling). Let's explore the legal and creative aspects of this hypothetical scenario.
Legal Perspectives on Using Moves and Nicknames
When discussing the potential implications of Randy Orton leaving WWE, it's essential to address the legal ramifications of move names and nicknames. In the world of professional wrestling, there's a significant distinction between moves that are simply a variation or evolution of a classic move (like the DDT) and moves that are heavily branded with an individual's gimmick.
For example, Jack The Snake Roberts is credited with making the DDT famous. However, the DDT itself is generic and can be used by anyone in the wrestling world. There's no legal issue with wrestlers tossing a DDT, as it doesn't belong to a specific individual.
On the other hand, RKO, with its distinct branding and Orton's initials, would face more scrutiny. The RKO is not just a move; it's a brand that has become synonymous with Orton's persona. This brings us to the central question: would the RKO need to be renamed if Orton left WWE?
Wrestling and Trademarks
Wrestling moves and gimmicks are indeed a form of intellectual property. However, the rules around trademarks in professional wrestling are somewhat unique. While some wrestlers’ names and gimmicks are protected by trademark, like "The Viper,” "The Apex Predator,” or "The Legend Killer,” not all of these are owned by WWE exclusively.
The RKO move is primarily about Orton's initials, which are a part of his real name. This makes it less likely for WWE to attempt a trademark on the move. On the other hand, the nicknames are more complex. Orton has a long history with WWE, and they own the trademarks for his distinctive aliases; he cannot legally use these unless WWE grants permission.
Practicality and Professionalism
While the legal aspects are important, the practicality of renaming moves is another layer of consideration. Even if WWE did attempt to trademark the RKO, it's unlikely they would succeed due to the move's origins and its strong connection to Orton himself. However, if Orton were to leave WWE for a new promotion, AEW, he would need to consider the brand loyalty and how much he wants to maintain his current identity.
Given the hypothetical nature of this scenario, Orton might choose to retain his nicknames and moves for the sake of brand consistency and continuity. For instance, he could continue to name his move RKO, but without the "The Viper" branding.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the RKO finishing move itself would likely remain the same if Randy Orton left WWE. The core of the move, which hinges on his initials, is a right he can retain. However, his specific branding and nicknames would be a different issue. If Orton were to leave WWE, he would need to navigate these legal and branding issues carefully. The move, technically, doesn't need to be renamed, but his identity in the wrestling world might require some adjustments.
Regardless of the legal and creative considerations, Randy Orton's tenure with WWE is secure as a lifer and future Hall of Famer. He has already cemented his place in wrestling history through his innovative moves and enduring legacy.
About the Author
This article was written by a professional SEO specialist from Google, leveraging knowledge of professional wrestling and legal guidelines to explore the intricacies of branding and trademarks in the industry.