Rapper RZA said Woof-Tang Clan’s name is a violation of the multiple trademarks already owned by the Wu-Tang Clan. (Images by Getty Images)
Wu-Tang Clan rapper and producer RZA has sued a Brooklyn-based dog-walking company, accusing the doggie-day service of ripping off the rap group’s name.
RZA, born Robert Diggs, kicked off the legal dogfight Nov. 17, after filing a trademark opposition suit against dog-walking service the Woof-Tang Clan, the New York Daily News reported. The company, owned and operated by Brooklyn man Marty Cuatchon, claims to walk “the illest dogs in New York City” while also offering pet-sitting services.
In court papers, Diggs argued that the Wu-Tang Clan’s name and logo were “unmistakably associated” with the Staten Island hip-hop group since their formation in 1993. He added that the Woof-Tang Clan’s attempt to trademark their name violated the many trademark registrations already owned by the group.
If ripping off Wu-Tang’s name wasn’t enough, Cuatchon also used his company’s website to sell t-shirts depicting pooches on classic hip-hip albums, one featuring a nod to late Wu Tang member ‘Ol Dirty Bastard’s debut album “Return to the 36 Chambers.” The merchandise has since been removed from the website.
Cuatchon spoke with the New York Daily News, saying he was aware of Digg’s trademark suit. “I am a fan,” he said. “We walk dogs. I thought it was a good idea.” The dog-walker declined to comment further until he could seek legal advice.
