Lawsuit Against AEW and Bryan Danielson Dismissed Amid Bizarre Claims

Leland Owens, known for filing lawsuits against WWE and UFC, had his recent case against All Elite Wrestling and Bryan Danielson (referred to as “Daniel Bryan” in the filing) thrown out by the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Washington on December 26. This isn’t Owens’ first legal battle, but it follows a pattern of peculiar claims that have failed to gain traction in court.

Owens initially filed the lawsuit on December 13, alleging “intellectual property infringement” and “theft” of ideas he claims to have shared with Danielson. Among the accusations, Owens stated he created the name “Shockwave,” which AEW trademarked as a potential series title last year. He also bizarrely connected “Shockwave” to an undefined “Engage PPV or PLE,” without explaining the connection. Owens sought “a reasonable offer or the rights to all my ideas” while citing “emotional stress” as part of his complaint.

The court dismissed the case, stating Owens “failed to allege any federal jurisdiction.” However, the dismissal was without prejudice, leaving room for Owens to potentially revisit the matter in the future. Notably, AEW was never officially served and likely had no idea the lawsuit existed.

This wasn’t the end of Owens’ legal filings. On December 27, he shifted his focus to the United States Government, claiming he provided the government with film and television ideas as well as inventions, yet received no payment. In an unusual twist, he named Bryan Danielson, Mercedes Mone, Vince McMahon, and Donald Trump as parties involved in the matter, again citing “emotional stress” and demanding “reasonable payments” and “credit for everything.”

Owens has a history of filing similar lawsuits. His previous case against WWE included accusations that Stephanie McMahon made disparaging remarks about his daughter, leading to an alleged hush money offer. He also claimed WWE agents Daniel Bryan (Bryan Danielson) and Mercedes Mone (formerly Sasha Banks) were involved. Owens stated he provided Vince McMahon with ideas for a company titled “PIE,” an event called “Stomping Grounds,” and his concept for a cage match. In that case, he sought an eye-popping $500 million in damages before it was dismissed for failing to address financial concerns.

These lawsuits continue to be dismissed, but Owens remains persistent with his legal battles. As of now, none of his claims have resulted in favorable rulings, and the dismissal of his case against AEW underscores the challenges of proving such allegations.

What do you think about these legal battles and the court’s decision to dismiss this case? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!