Dakota Kai's Post-WWE Ring Name Revealed?

A trademark application sheds light on the former Dakota Kai's wrestling future.

Dakota Kai
WWE

Free agent wrestler Dakota Kai has filed a new trademark application for "King Kota" with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

The mark is to be used for the following purposes:-

IC 025. US 022 039. G & S: Hats; Shirts; Sweatshirts; Bandanas; Hooded sweatshirts
IC 041. US 100 101 107. G & S: Entertainment in the nature of wrestling contests; Entertainment services, namely, wrestling exhibits and performances by a professional wrestler and entertainer; Entertainment services, namely, live appearances by a professional wrestling and sports entertainment personality; Entertainment services, namely, personal appearances by a professional wrestling and sports entertainment personality; Entertainment services, namely, televised appearances by a professional wrestling and sports entertainment personality; Providing wrestling news and information via a global computer network; Providing online interviews featuring professional wrestling and sports entertainment personality in the field of professional wrestling and sports entertainment for entertainment purposes

Kai, real name Cheree Crowley, filed the application on 9 May 2022. Michael E. Dockins, a frequent collaborator when it comes to tying-up wrestling trademarks, is listed as the attorney of record.

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Dakota was released by WWE alongside nine other NXT names on 29 April, ending a near-six-year run with the market leaders. Bound to a 30-day non-compete clause, she will be free to sign and appear for other promotions from 29 May, along with the other NXT wrestlers let go that day.

The New Zealander wrestled as Evie prior to joining WWE.

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Andy has been with WhatCulture for six years and is currently WhatCulture's Senior Wrestling Reporter. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.