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Rick Ross Wins Trademark Lawsuit Over 'Mastermind' LP

Rick Ross has won a lawsuit over his 2014 album ‘Mastermind’ filed by a Los Angeles rapper who owned the trademark to the term, “Mastermind.”

The suit was filed by Raul Caiz, who owned the trademark for “Mastermind” and reportedly used the moniker throughout his own 17-year music career. Caiz’s multi-million dollar suit claimed Ross and his label, Universal Music Group, infringed on his trademark by using “Mastermind” as the title of the album and to brand his subsequent tour, while Ross also adopted a “Mastermind” persona.

Ross ultimately won the case through a motion for summary judgement that was filed in the Central District Court of California. Per Law360, the federal judge ordered a cancellation of Caiz’s trademark, ruling that consumers wouldn’t immediately associate “Mastermind” with him.

“When claims are made against our clients, we litigate them very aggressively,” said Ross’ attorney, Leron E. Rogers. “We are happy that the court not only ruled in Ross and Universal’s favor, but also took the extra step to cancel Plaintiff’s trademark.”

This is not the first time Ross has been sued over an aspect of his persona, however he has come away victorious both times. In 2012, the former drug dealer “Freeway” Rick Ross filed suit against the MC, claiming ownership of the name, but a Los Angeles judge ultimately dropped the case saying the reformed criminal had no case.

Ross has recently released several new songs as he prepares his ninth album, Rather You Than Me, which is expected to arrive early next year. Earlier this month, he tapped 2 Chainz and Gucci Mane for the “Buy Back the Block” video, while he previously unveiled “Free Enterprise” and “Freaky Hoe,” which features Juicy J, Too $hort and Big K.R.I.T.

Source: Yahoonews

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