10 Wrestling Facts We Didn't Know Last Week (July 14)

9. WWE Released Trademark Rights For Billy Gunn's Name

Something else WWE agreed on was loosening their iron grip on the rights to the 'Billy Gunn' ring name. Again reported by The Wrestling Observer, Dave Meltzer and pals claimed Gunn is able to use that moniker because WWE let their ownership of that trademark expire and chose not to renew it.

Jumping right on a clear opportunity, Billy decided to copyright the name himself so he could continue using it on the independent scene. That seems like a smart move from Gunn; a huge star during the Attitude Era, his name still carries some weight with older fans, and 'Former WWE Superstar Billy Gunn' sounds a hell of a lot better than 'Ex-WWE Star Monty Sopp'.

Those wondering if Gunn was still under some kind of agreement with WWE, here's your answer. He isn't, but he does now own the rights to use Billy Gunn. Crucially, Billy ensured he trademarked the name for use worldwide, which explains his work in NJPW.