Amended Complaint Nike V StockX

Download as pdf or txt
Download as pdf or txt
You are on page 1of 151
At a glance
Powered by AI
The document discusses Nike filing an amended complaint against StockX for trademark infringement related to StockX's plans to sell Nike-branded NFTs without authorization.

The document is Nike filing an amended complaint in a lawsuit against StockX for trademark infringement and related claims arising from StockX's plans to sell Nike-branded NFTs without authorization.

Nike claims trademark infringement, trademark dilution, counterfeiting, and false advertising against StockX based on StockX's plans to sell Nike-branded NFTs without authorization.

Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33 Filed 05/10/22 Page 1 of 1

UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT


FOR THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF NEW YORK

|
NIKE, INC., | Civil Action No.: 1:22-cv-00983-VEC
Plaintiff, |
|
v. |
|
STOCKX LLC, |
Defendant. |
|

DECLARATION OF TAMAR Y. DUVDEVANI IN SUPPORT OF NIKE INC.’S


MOTION FOR LEAVE TO FILE A FIRST AMENDED COMPLAINT

I, Tamar Y. Duvdevani, declare as follows:

1. I am a partner at DLA Piper LLP (US) and attorney of record for Plaintiff Nike,

Inc. (“Nike”). I submit this Declaration in support of Nike’s Motion for Leave to File a First

Amended Complaint and to place before the Court Nike’s proposed First Amended Complaint

and, pursuant to this Court’s Individual Practices, a redlined version of the proposed First

Amended Complaint comparing the revisions made to Nike’s original Complaint.

2. Attached as Exhibit A is a true and correct copy of the proposed First Amended

Complaint.

3. Attached as Exhibit B is a true and correct copy of a redlined version of the

proposed First Amended Complaint comparing the revisions made to Nike’s original Complaint

filed on February 3, 2022 (Dkt. No. 1).

I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of United States of America that the
foregoing is true and correct.

Executed on May 10, 2022 in New York, New York.

By: /s/ Tamar Y. Duvdevani


Tamar Y. Duvdevani
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 1 of 73

Exhibit A
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 2 of 73

UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT


FOR THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF NEW YORK

NIKE, INC.,
Plaintiff,
Case No. 1:22-cv-000983-VEC
v.
[PROPOSED] FIRST AMENDED
STOCKX LLC, COMPLAINT
Defendant.
JURY TRIAL REQUESTED

Plaintiff Nike, Inc. (“Nike” or “Plaintiff”) for its First Amended Complaint (“FAC”)

against Defendant StockX LLC (“StockX” or “Defendant”) for trademark infringement, trademark

dilution, counterfeiting, false advertising, and related causes of action alleges as follows:

PRELIMINARY STATEMENT

1. On February 3, 2022, Nike filed its original Complaint (Plaintiff Nike, Inc.’s

Complaint, February 3, 2022 [Dkt. No. 1] (“Complaint”)) in this action because of Defendant

StockX’s unauthorized and infringing use of Nike’s famous marks in connection with StockX’s

entry into the Non-Fungible Token market. Non-Fungible Tokens or “NFTs” have quickly

become pervasive in their use by brand owners seeking to enter the nascent marketplace of virtual

or digital products connected to a token on the blockchain. NFTs are commonly understood to be

blockchain-based virtual products that can be collected, sold, and traded in the marketplace. They

are an exciting way for brands to interact with their consumers in and out of the “metaverse,” and

diverse commercial applications of NFTs have emerged throughout the past two years. Far more

than a fleeting trend, NFTs are part of the future of commerce.

2. Unfortunately, novel product offerings, burgeoning technologies, and gold rush

markets tend to create opportunities for third parties to capitalize on the goodwill of reputable

brands and create confusion in the marketplace. NFTs are, not surprisingly, no exception to the
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 3 of 73

rule, and this new frontier has swiftly become a virtual playground for infringers to usurp the

goodwill of some of the most famous trademarks in the world and use those trademarks without

authorization to market their virtual products and generate ill-gotten profits.

3. Enter Defendant StockX, the operator of an online secondary market platform for

the resale of various brands of sneakers, apparel, luxury handbags, electronics, and other

collectible goods that purports to provide authentication services to its customers. According to

StockX’s Answer to Nike’s Complaint, StockX is different than other online marketplaces because

it “uses a proprietary, multi-step authentication process for every product sold on its platform.

This process ensures that items traded on StockX conform to the product descriptions and

condition standards advertised by StockX, and that the products offered for sale are what they

claim to be, and are not counterfeit, defective, or used—meaning StockX’s customers can trust

that transactions made through StockX are safe.” (Defendant StockX LLC’s Answer, March 31,

2022 [Dkt. No. 21] (“Answer”) at 2.)

4. StockX publicly touts the fact that Nike products drive far more sales on its e-

commerce platform than any other brand, and StockX advertisements and social media accounts

are teeming with images of Nike goods. StockX is even marketing and selling Nike goods on its

secondary market platform before Nike releases those goods to the marketplace in the first

instance. See https://stockx.com/new-releases/sneakers. StockX built its secondary market

business by exploiting the immense goodwill and reputation that Nike has amassed through many

years as the world’s leading designer, developer, marketer, and seller of athletic footwear and

apparel. Now, recognizing firsthand the immense value of Nike’s brands, StockX chose to enter

the lucrative NFT market, not by taking the time to develop its own intellectual property rights,

-2-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 4 of 73

but rather by blatantly freeriding, almost exclusively, on the back of Nike’s famous trademarks

and associated goodwill.

5. Specifically, without Nike’s authorization or approval, StockX is “minting” NFTs

that prominently use Nike’s trademarks, marketing those NFTs using Nike’s goodwill, and selling

those NFTs at heavily inflated prices to unsuspecting consumers who believe or are likely to

believe that those “investible digital assets” (as StockX calls them) are, in fact, authorized by Nike

when they are not. Unlike its e-commerce business which caters to buyers and sellers of goods

originating from various companies, StockX launched its NFT venture almost exclusively with

Nike-branded NFTs, yet none of those NFTs originates from Nike. Examples of StockX’s

infringing NFTs appear below:

6. StockX claims that its “100% Authentic” Nike-branded “Vault NFTs” do no more

than track ownership of a specific physical Nike product that StockX has purportedly authenticated

using its “proprietary, multi-step authentication process” and is safely securing in its “vault.”

StockX’s post hoc rationalization that it is simply selling “claim tickets” with no value apart from

the physical shoe is belied by its own statements, as well as the fact that those purported “claim

tickets” have sold for thousands of dollars above the price of the physical shoe that said ticket

supposedly claims. Those statements—some of which StockX has modified or removed from its

platform since this action was filed—reflect the fact that StockX’s Nike-branded Vault NFTs,

whose purchasers can trade or collect and admire in their “NFT Portfolios,” are, in fact, new virtual

-3-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 5 of 73

products that StockX has bundled with additional StockX services (e.g., “Vault Services”) and

unspecified benefits (e.g., “exclusive access to StockX releases, promotions, events”). Nike does

not sell StockX’s services or exclusive access to such benefits. Yet StockX’s new virtual products

have been created, marketed, offered for sale, and sold by StockX using Nike’s trademarks without

Nike’s consent. And, according to StockX, it is “just getting started.” See

https://stockx.com/about/stockx-launches-vault-nfts/.

7. Just as troubling have been other StockX statements that appear to negate StockX’s

primary claim that a Vault NFT can be readily traded in for the associated physical shoes stored in

a StockX facility. For example, while StockX initially claimed that Vault NFT owners may

“redeem” the NFT and take possession of the shoes (for an additional fee), it also sold the

infringing Nike-branded NFTs while stating that “the redemption process is not currently

available” to NFT owners. StockX also, shockingly, sold the infringing Nike-branded NFTs while

retaining the right to unilaterally redeem a Vault NFT for a so-called “Experiential Component,”

and take away the NFT, completely depriving the Vault NFT owner of possession of the shoes that

are supposedly connected to the NFT. In the short time since Nike initiated this action, StockX

has repeatedly revised its statements to consumers, hoping to erase some of the unsavory conduct

that Nike’s Complaint identified. Those changes have done nothing to resolve Nike’s claims.

Regardless, upon information and belief, by that point StockX had already offered for sale and

sold through its initial inventory of 558 infringing Nike-branded Vault NFTs. StockX continues

to earn revenue on secondary trades of those infringing Nike-branded NFTs and, unless halted,

StockX will continue minting, marketing, and selling thousands of additional infringing Nike-

branded Vault NFTs.

-4-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 6 of 73

8. Nike did not approve of or authorize StockX’s Nike-branded Vault NFTs. Those

unsanctioned products are likely to confuse consumers, create a false association between those

products and Nike, and dilute Nike’s famous trademarks. Indeed, consumers are already

questioning whether Nike authorized StockX to sell its infringing NFT products, asking how

StockX received “the licensing to sell NFTs with [N]ike branding.” See Paragraph 101, infra.

StockX’s misappropriation of Nike’s famous trademarks and goodwill to buoy its entry into the

lucrative NFT and digital collectible market deprives Nike of its exclusive right to use its marks

in connection with this new commercial medium. In addition, the Vault NFTs’ inflated prices and

murky terms of purchase and ownership, as discussed further below, have already led to public

criticism of StockX and allegations that the Vault NFTs are a scam. StockX’s prominent use of

Nike’s trademarks in connection with these dubious virtual products has already generated

negative associations with Nike in a way that harms Nike’s reputation and the immense goodwill

that Nike has amassed in its brands. Consumers have even attributed StockX’s conduct to Nike,

with one consumer expressing that the Vault NFTs are “just a stupid scam for Nike to make

money.” See Paragraph 103, infra (emphasis added).

9. Despite StockX’s prominent use of Nike’s trademarks in connection with the Vault

NFTs, Nike has no control over the quality of the Vault NFTs whatsoever. Nike has no say in how

many Vault NFTs bearing its trademarks are released, where the Vault NFTs are released and

traded, when the Vault NFTs are released, how the Vault NFTs are released, traded, or redeemed,

and at what price the Vault NFTs are sold.

10. Nike’s widely publicized December 13, 2021 acquisition of RTFKT, a digital art

and collectible creative studio, and Nike and RTFKT’s very recent launch of the highly anticipated

and revolutionary MNLTH and CryptoKicks™ NFTs, demonstrate Nike’s recent investment in

-5-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 7 of 73

NFT technology and services and its sophistication in the NFT space. Prior to these recent

developments, however, Nike has been using its famous trademarks in connection with virtual

goods and digital applications for years. Given Nike’s longstanding use in this space, StockX’s

unauthorized and unapproved branding of Vault NFTs with Nike trademarks is all the more likely

to confuse consumers, create a false association between the parties, jeopardize the capacity of

Nike’s famous marks to identify its own digital goods in the metaverse and beyond, and harm

Nike’s reputation through an association with inferior digital products.

11. As noted, StockX has justified its minting and sale of Nike NFTs by claiming that

the NFTs are associated with vaulted Nike shoes StockX has “authenticated” using a “proprietary,

multi-step authentication process” to ensure “that the products offered for sale are what they claim

to be, and are not counterfeit, defective, or used.” (Answer at 2.) StockX’s defense to Nike’s

Complaint has thus brought to the forefront its “100% Verified Authentic” claim, “proprietary,

multi-step authentication process,” and claim that “StockX’s customers can trust that transactions

made through StockX are safe.” (Id.) To be sure, given the inflated prices of these so-called

“claim tickets,” consumers should be able to trust to a certainty that the vaulted Nike shoes

purportedly associated with the Nike-branded NFTs are not counterfeit.

12. Notwithstanding StockX’s repeated guarantees that every item sold through its

platform is “100% Verified Authentic,” since December 2021 and continuing through the filing of

this action, Nike has obtained from StockX four pairs of purportedly “authenticated” Nike-branded

shoes that Nike has verified are, in fact, counterfeit. Those four pairs of counterfeit shoes were all

purchased within a short two-month period on StockX’s platform, all had affixed to them StockX’s

“Verified Authentic” hangtag, and all came with a paper receipt from StockX in the shoe box

stating that the condition of the shoes is “100% Authentic.” StockX’s refusal to accept returns of

-6-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 8 of 73

purportedly “100% Verified Authentic” products purchased through its platform make it all the

more important for consumers to be able to absolutely trust that the Nike shoes purchased through

StockX are not counterfeit.

13. Nike has no visibility into the StockX “vault” and whether any Nike shoes

contained therein are counterfeit. However, at least one of the four counterfeit pairs of Nike shoes

that Nike obtained from StockX is, in fact, a counterfeit pair of Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG in the

Black/Varsity Red-White colorway. StockX depicts the same shoe on one of the eight Nike-

branded NFTs for sale on StockX’s platform, which is also currently StockX’s top-selling NFT by

total volume sold:

14. Given StockX’s statements that its “vaulted” shoes are sourced from its

marketplace and undergo the same “proprietary multi-step authentication process” as the shoes

Nike recently discovered were counterfeit, Nike is all the more concerned that StockX has linked

the infringing Nike-branded NFTs to counterfeit goods and sold those “claim tickets” to fake shoes

at heavily-inflated prices to consumers who had no opportunity to inspect the shoes before

reselling the NFT to another unsuspecting consumer.

-7-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 9 of 73

15. For these reasons, Nike supplements and amends its Complaint to include

additional causes of action for counterfeiting and false advertising, and requests that the Court

swiftly and permanently stop StockX from continuing to sell Vault NFTs bearing Nike’s famous

marks, selling counterfeit Nike goods, and making false and/or misleading claims regarding the

purported authenticity of those goods.

THE PARTIES

16. Nike is a corporation organized under the laws of the State of Oregon with a

principal place of business at One Bowerman Drive, Beaverton, Oregon 97005.

17. On information and belief, StockX LLC is organized as a Michigan LLC with its

principal place of business located at 1046 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, Michigan 48226. StockX

LLC is an online marketplace and reseller of sneakers, streetwear, electronics, luxury handbags,

and other collectibles. StockX maintains various offices and/or facilities located in New York,

California, and Oregon, including a store and drop-off facility located at 237 Lafayette Street, New

York, New York 10012.

18. On information and belief, StockX is the owner and operator of https://stockx.com

(the “StockX Website”) and StockX mobile application (the “StockX App”), where StockX

conducts, inter alia, its online commercial activities.

JURISDICTION AND VENUE

19. This action arises under the trademark, anti-dilution, counterfeiting, and false

advertising laws of the United States, 15 U.S.C. § 1051, et seq., and under statutory and common

law unfair competition. This Court has subject matter jurisdiction at least under 15 U.S.C. § 1121

and 28 U.S.C. §§ 1331 and 1338 because this action arises under federal trademark law. This

Court has supplemental jurisdiction over the remaining claims pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1367.

-8-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 10 of 73

20. This Court has personal jurisdiction over StockX because StockX has committed,

and continues to commit, acts of infringement, dilution, counterfeiting, and false advertising in

this District, has conducted, and continues to conduct, business in this District through the StockX

Website, StockX App, and a physical store, offices and/or facilities located in this District, and/or

has engaged in continuous and systematic activities in this District.

21. Personal jurisdiction is proper pursuant to N.Y. C.P.L.R. § 302(a) because StockX

regularly conducts, solicits, or transacts business in New York and in this District. StockX created

the StockX Website and StockX App, which are accessible to consumers in New York, and direct

false and/or misleading claims, counterfeit Nike goods, and the unauthorized and infringing uses

of Nike’s trademarks into New York and this District. StockX targets New York consumers by

operating the StockX Website and StockX App, by operating a physical store and offices and/or

facilities in New York, by employing employees in New York, and by advertising, selling, and

offering for sale StockX Vault NFTs through the StockX Website, StockX App, and related social

media accounts. Moreover, StockX is actively recruiting employees for several open positions

located in New York, New York, including a Director, Real Estate, a Sr. Engineering Manager –

NFT and Checkout, a Senior Manager, NFT Partnerships, and a Technical Lead – Notifications.

22. Venue is proper in this District pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1391(b) because StockX

conducts and continues to conduct a substantial and significant amount of business in this District,

a substantial part of the events giving rise to these claims arose in this District, and customer

confusion is likely to occur in this District. Moreover, on information and belief, the locus of

StockX’s Vault NFT and Web3 initiative appears to be in this District. For example, StockX’s

Director, Innovation along with the lead software engineer responsible for developing and

launching StockX’s NFT offering are, on information and belief, located in New York. Moreover,

-9-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 11 of 73

StockX’s January 18, 2021 announcement of its Vault NFT offering was issued by its Editorial

Director based in New York City. See https://stockx.com/news/introducing-nfts-on-stockx/.

StockX is also actively recruiting in this District for employees to join its NFT and Web3 program.

As just one example, this year through the filing of this action StockX had postings for the

following senior positions located in New York: Sr. Engineering Manager – NFT and Checkout;

and Senior Manager, NFT Partnerships.

FACTUAL BACKGROUND

NFTs and Blockchain

23. While blockchains have myriad actual and potential uses, a primary use is to serve

as an ecosystem and ledger for blockchain-based assets, like cryptocurrencies (such as Bitcoin

(BTC) and Ether (ETH)) and NFTs. Much like banks track ownership of money in bank accounts

and process transfers from one account to another, storing the information privately, blockchain

technology enables the transfer of ownership of cryptocurrencies and NFTs between accounts,

storing the information of the transfer of ownership in blocks of data visible for all to see. A

distinguishing and touted feature of blockchains is decentralization. Unlike bank or other asset

ledgers, which are typically maintained by one or more larger entities, blockchains can be

maintained by innumerable individuals and entities, acting relatively independently but

participating in a coordinated ecosystem. Today there exist many blockchains, the largest of which

supports the Bitcoin cryptocurrency, while the second largest of which, Ethereum, supports a much

broader set of assets, including both the Ether cryptocurrency and NFTs that are stored and traded

on the Ethereum blockchain network.

-10-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 12 of 73

24. Many blockchain-based assets, like cryptocurrencies, are “fungible.” Like money

in a bank account, each individual coin (or “token”) is not distinguishable from others and is

divisible. For this reason, cryptocurrencies may function as a medium of exchange.

25. By contrast, certain tokens, referred to as “non-fungible tokens” or “NFTs,” are

both indivisible and uniquely identifiable. Their movement can be tracked from one blockchain

address to another via smart contracts. This feature makes it possible to use NFTs to track

ownership or licensed rights over assets, similar to a certificate of ownership or real estate title.

26. NFTs have been widely used to track ownership over rights (often a limited license

for personal use) to a new type of digital collectible, which may be a digital photograph, video,

artwork, sound recording, avatar, digital clothing, footwear and other products, or other type of

media. These NFT collectibles can be bought, sold, resold, and generally traded on various

platforms.

27. While such NFT collectibles have existed for years, beginning in early 2021 interest

exploded. Many prominent apparel and consumer goods brands have successfully launched and

sold NFT collections, incorporating their trademarks, trade dress, and other intellectual property

into artwork associated with each NFT. These NFTs have taken many different forms but have

always closely connected the trademark owner with the digital asset. As further discussed below,

Nike is one such market entrant.

Nike’s Business and Valuable Trademark Rights

28. Nike’s principal business activity is the design, development, and worldwide

marketing and selling of athletic footwear, apparel, equipment, accessories, and services.

29. As a result of decades of Nike’s advertising, promotional, and marketing efforts,

Nike has established itself as a multibillion-dollar brand and the world’s leading designer,

-11-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 13 of 73

marketer, and distributor of athletic footwear and apparel products which are sold in connection

with Nike’s famous trademarks. In addition to spending significant amounts in support of

advertising and promotion of its products and services, Nike conducts successful marketing

campaigns across various social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, YouTube,

Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat, to further promote Nike’s products, services, brands, and

trademarks.

30. Nike and its brands have achieved widespread recognition and fame throughout the

United States and the world. Among the purchasing public, Nike’s products and services are

instantly recognizable and are seen as high-quality, innovative, and dependable.

31. Nike is the owner of the right, title, and interest in and to, inter alia, the following

trademarks registered on the Principal Register of the United States Patent and Trademark Office

(collectively, the “Asserted Marks”):

Reg. No. Title Trademark Design Reg. Date Classes


1,370,283 AIR JORDAN AIR JORDAN 11/12/1985 25- Clothing,
(word mark) footwear
3,725,535 Air Jordan & 12/15/2009 25- Clothing,
Wings footwear,
Design*1 headgear
3,780,236 DUNK DUNK 4/27/2010 25- Footwear
(word mark)
3,627,820 JUMPMAN JUMPMAN 9/11/2007 25- Clothing,
(word mark) footwear,
headgear
1,558,100 JumpMan 9/26/1989 25- Clothing,
Design Footwear

1
* indicates unofficial, descriptive title.

-12-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 14 of 73

1,742,019 JumpMan 12/22/1992 25- Clothing,


Design footwear,
headgear

18- Leather
and
imitations of
leather
978,952 NIKE NIKE 2/19/1974 25- Clothing,
(word mark) footwear,
headgear
1,214,930 NIKE NIKE 11/2/1982 25- Footwear
(word mark)
1,243,248 NIKE NIKE 6/21/1983 42- Retail
(word mark) footwear and
apparel
services
6,124,779 NIKE NIKE 8/11/2020 35- Retail
(word mark) store services
and on-line
retail store
services
1,238,853 NIKE & 5/17/1983 42- Retail
Swoosh footwear and
Design* apparel
services
1,325,938 NIKE & 3/19/1985 25- Footwear
Swoosh
Design*

5,286,596 NIKE AIR NIKE AIR VAPORMAX 9/12/2017 25- Footwear


VAPORMAX (word mark)
977,190 Swoosh Design 1/22/1974 25- Footwear

1,264,529 Swoosh Design 1/17/1984 42- Retail


footwear and
apparel
services

1,323,343 Swoosh Design 3/5/1985 25- Footwear

-13-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 15 of 73

5,794,674 Swoosh Design 7/2/2019 35- Retail


store services
and on-line
retail store
services

32. The above U.S. registrations for Nike’s Asserted Marks are valid, subsisting,

unrevoked, uncancelled, and in full force and effect.

33. Pursuant to 15 U.S.C. § 1065, of Nike’s Asserted Marks, the following federally

registered Nike trademarks are incontestable and constitute prima facie evidence their validity,

Nike’s ownership, and Nike’s exclusive right to use these marks:

a. Reg. No. 1,370,283 (AIR JORDAN word mark)

b. Reg. No. 3,725,535 (Air Jordan & Wings Design mark);

c. Reg. No. 3,780,236 (DUNK word mark);

d. Reg. No. 3,627,820 (JUMPMAN word mark);

e. Reg. No. 1,558,100 (JumpMan Design mark);

f. Reg. No. 978,952 (NIKE word mark);

g. Reg. No. 1,214,930 (NIKE word mark);

h. Reg. No. 1,243,248 (NIKE word mark);

i. Reg. No. 977,190 (Swoosh Design mark);

j. Reg. No. 1,264,529 (Swoosh Design mark);

k. Reg. No. 1,323,343 (Swoosh Design mark);

l. Reg. No. 1,238,853 (Swoosh Design mark); and

m. Reg. No. 1,325,938 (Swoosh Design mark).

34. Nike also owns extensive common law rights in the Asserted Marks for use in

connection with Nike’s goods and services. Nike uses the Asserted Marks on or in connection

with many of its products and services.

-14-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 16 of 73

35. Nike’s Asserted Marks identify, in the United States and throughout the world,

high-quality products and services designed, produced, and offered by Nike.

36. Nike intends to continue to preserve and maintain its rights in the Asserted Marks.

Nike has continuously used the Asserted Marks in interstate commerce in connection with the sale,

distribution, promotion, and advertising of genuine Nike goods and services since their respective

dates of first use as noted on the federal trademark registration certificates. And, as discussed

further below, Nike has also used the Asserted Marks in connection with virtual products and

intends to further expand such use as reflected in its pending trademark applications.

37. As a result of continuous and long-standing promotion, substantial sales, and

consumer recognition, Nike has developed powerful trademarks rights, built substantial goodwill

in the Asserted Marks, and has never abandoned that goodwill. As a result, Nike’s Asserted Marks

have become distinctive and “famous” within the meaning of Section 43(c) of the Lanham Act, 15

U.S.C. § 1125(c).

38. Having distinctive trademarks that are readily identifiable is an important factor in

creating and maintaining a market for Nike’s products, in identifying Nike and its brands, and in

distinguishing Nike’s products from the products of others.

39. Nike maintains strict quality control standards for products bearing the Asserted

Marks. Genuine Nike products bearing the Asserted Marks are inspected and approved by Nike

prior to distribution and sale.

40. Nike also maintains strict control over the use of the Asserted Marks in connection

with its products so that the company can maintain control over its reputation and goodwill. Nike,

for example, carefully determines how many products bearing the Asserted Marks are released,

and when, where, and how those products are sold.

-15-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 17 of 73

Nike’s Activities in the Virtual Products Market

41. Nike has used the Asserted Marks in connection with a variety of physical goods

and associated services for decades. Nike has also for some time incorporated the Asserted Marks

into its virtual products. For example, in October 2019, Nike, through its SNKRS mobile

application, partnered with 2K Sports, makers of the NBA 2K basketball videogame franchise, to

offer “Gamer Exclusives,” limited edition digital and physical Nike sneakers that NBA 2K20

players can unlock through gameplay. See https://news.nike.com/news/nba-2k20-x-nike-gamer-

exclusives.

42. On October 27 and 28, 2021, Nike filed applications to register the following

trademarks with the United States Patent and Trademark Office for use in connection with, inter

alia, “[d]ownloadable virtual goods, namely computer programs featuring footwear,” (i.e., digital

sneaker NFTs) and “[r]etail store services featuring virtual goods, namely footwear” (i.e., a digital

sneaker NFT trading platform):

a. NIKE (word mark) (Serial No. 97095855);

b. JORDAN (word mark) (Serial No. 97096950);

c. (Serial No. 97096952);

d. (Serial No. 97096945);

e. (Serial No. 97095944); and

-16-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 18 of 73

f. (Serial No. 97096366).

43. On December 13, 2021, Nike announced that it had acquired RTFKT, a leading

digital art and collectible creative studio that has created some of the most popular apparel-related

digital artwork NFT releases to date, including the CYBERSNEAKER, METAJACKET, and

FEWO Shoes, collectible digital sneakers designed in collaboration with teenage pop artist

FEWOCiOUS. See https://news.nike.com/news/nike-acquires-rtfkt.

44. On or around January 18, 2022, Nike announced to its employees the formation of

Nike Virtual Studios, a new division that will operate as an independent studio to further develop

Nike’s business around virtual products and partner with its core business to deliver best-in-class

Web3, metaverse, and blockchain-based experiences.

45. On February 7, 2022, Nike and RTFKT released the MNLTH NFT collection by

“airdropping” each NFT directly to the then-current owners of RTFKT’s Clone X and PodX NFTs.

The MNLTH NFT is depicted below:

46. On April 22, 2022, Nike and RTFKT released the Nike Dunk Genesis

CryptoKicks™ NFTs, along with the Evo Skin Vial NFTs, which allow owners of the Nike Dunk

-17-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 19 of 73

Genesis NFTs to customize the colorway of the digital shoes. Examples of the Nike Dunk Genesis

CryptoKicks™ and Evo Skin Vial NFTs are depicted below:

47. The Nike initiatives discussed above have been highly publicized, and the recent

release of the successful RTFKT x Nike Dunk Genesis CryptoKicks™ NFTs reflects Nike’s deep

understanding of the NFT market. Upon information and belief, StockX has known about Nike’s

plans to expand into the NFT market long prior to its January 2022 “Vault NFT” launch.

StockX’s Resale Platform

48. StockX, like eBay, operates an online marketplace for the resale of sneakers,

streetwear, electronics, luxury handbags, and other collectibles accessible to consumers on the

StockX Website and StockX App. Upon information and belief, StockX does not sell goods

directly to consumers; rather, StockX’s users buy and sell goods from each other on StockX’s

platform. StockX is not an authorized distributor of Nike goods.

49. Unlike the eBay model, however, StockX is an active intermediary for each

transaction—the seller ships the item to StockX, StockX receives and purportedly verifies the

item’s authenticity, StockX then ships the item to the buyer with a StockX-branded verification

badge, and StockX pays the seller (less its transaction fees). See https://stockx.com/about/how-it-

works/.

50. In fact, as StockX alleged in its Answer to Nike’s Complaint:

-18-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 20 of 73

StockX uses a proprietary, multi-step authentication process for every product


sold on its platform. This process ensures that items traded on StockX conform
to the product descriptions and condition standards advertised by StockX, and
that the products offered for sale are what they claim to be, and are not
counterfeit, defective, or used—meaning StockX’s customers can trust that
transactions made through StockX are safe. StockX has authenticated tens of
millions of products since its formation, combining its authentication team’s
expert knowledge with AI-enhanced technology to allow global customers to
trade with confidence.
(Answer at 2.)

51. StockX falsely and/or misleadingly claims on the StockX Website that every item

StockX sells on its e-commerce platform—including those items purportedly associated with the

Vault NFTs—has been independently verified by StockX as “100% Verified Authentic.”

Specifically, StockX states that “Every item sold goes through our proprietary multi-step

verification process with our team of expert authenticators.” https://stockx.com/about/how-it-

works/. According to StockX, its rigorous, multi-step verification procedure uses “100+ data

points,” and that its “authenticators are better equipped than anyone to ensure a product’s

authenticity.” https://stockx.com/about/authentication/. StockX misleadingly claims that this

“multi-step verification process” authenticating products is somehow “proprietary,” despite the

fact that StockX is not the entity that designed, created, manufactured, packaged, or shipped in the

first instance any genuine Nike goods, and despite the fact that much of the process itself is openly

displayed in a video found on StockX’s website. StockX prominently advertises this guarantee of

“100% Verified Authentic” and the value its authentication services provide consumers throughout

the StockX Website, as exemplified below:

-19-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 21 of 73

52. On the StockX Website, StockX also advertises that it utilizes “Advanced

Technology” and “Quality Assurance” with respect to its authentication services and claims that

it employs quality assurance “experts” to ensure that only authentic goods are sold on its platform:

53. StockX also claims that it has “compiled data from every fake product in the history

of StockX to build a comprehensive database of fake techniques around the world.” It also

-20-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 22 of 73

advertises an authentication accuracy rate of “99.95%” but does not explain how this number is

substantiated.

54. The confirmed purchase of counterfeit Nike goods on StockX’s platform—

including the same style purportedly associated with at least one of the infringing Nike-branded

Vault NFTs—confirms that StockX’s claims about its “proprietary multi-step verification

process,” “100% Verified Authentic,” and authentication accuracy rate of “99.95%” are false

and/or misleading.

55. According to StockX’s most recent annual report, Nike’s brands and shoes

dominate StockX’s marketplace. For example, three of Nike’s brands—JORDAN, NIKE, and

CONVERSE—were the among the top five trading footwear brands by volume on StockX’s

marketplace in 2021:

-21-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 23 of 73

StockX’s Vault NFTs

56. On January 18, 2022, StockX’s New York-based Editorial Director announced the

launch of StockX Vault NFTs, a collection of NFTs that StockX’s users purchase directly from

StockX through the StockX Website and StockX App. See https://stockx.com/news/introducing-

nfts-on-stockx/. StockX claims the Vault NFTs are associated with a unique physical product held

in StockX’s custody until the NFT owner “redeems” the NFT in exchange for the associated

physical product or some other benefit.

-22-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 24 of 73

57. Unlike the physical goods StockX’s users may sell through its online resale

platform—which are manufactured and/or distributed in the first instance by Nike and other brands

or their authorized distributors—StockX’s Vault NFTs are virtual products, i.e., digital

collectibles, created and first offered for sale by StockX, and available direct to consumers for

purchase and trade on the StockX Website and StockX App.

58. StockX markets its Vault NFTs as exciting new product offerings. StockX

advertises to consumers that these “digital assets” can be traded or collected. StockX markets the

thrill of purchasing an NFT, not a “claim ticket” for goods available on its platform. For example,

StockX added a separate “NFT Portfolio” allowing owners of Vault NFTs to collect, track, and

display their NFTs.

59. StockX also modified its platform to allow consumers to shop for “NFTs” as a new

product “Category.” The NFT “Category” is separate from the categories of physical goods that

have been historically available for resale on StockX’s platform. Consumers can sort the “NFTs”

listed in the Category by “Release Date.” Those “release” dates correspond to the dates that

StockX first released each NFT, not the date that the original manufacturer first released any

purportedly associated physical product.

-23-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 25 of 73
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 26 of 73

60. Upon purchase of a Vault NFT, the StockX Website confirms to the consumer that

they have bought an NFT (not a pair of physical shoes) by stating: “Congratulations, you

successfully bought StockX Nike Dunk Low Retro White Black (Vault NFT) on StockX. The

NFT has now been added to your StockX Portfolio” and allowing the consumer to “share” the

NFT purchase via e-mail or social media:

61. At the point of purchase StockX also e-mails the Vault NFT consumer confirmation

that they have purchased an NFT (not a pair of physical shoes) by exclaiming in large, bold font

at the top of the e-mail: “You Bought an NFT!” The e-mail further states to the consumer:

“Congratulations! Your bid has been accepted. The NFT transfer can take a few minutes. When

the transfer is complete, your NFT will be available in your StockX Portfolio.”

-25-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 27 of 73

62. Nowhere on the StockX Order Confirmation Webpage or StockX Order

Confirmation e-mail does StockX expressly state that the consumer purchased a physical item

instead of an NFT. StockX does not inform the consumer that it bought a “claim ticket” linked to

an underlying physical item. StockX does not state: “Congratulations, you just bought a pair of

Nike or Jordan shoes.” Instead, StockX congratulates the consumer on purchasing an NFT because

the NFT is the product that the consumer purchased.

63. StockX has sold Nike-branded Vault NFTs at prices many multiples above the price

of the physical Nike shoe. For example, the 2022 version of the Nike Dunk Low – Retro White

Black (i.e., the physical pair of shoes) will retail for $100 from nike.com:

-26-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 28 of 73

According to StockX’s marketplace, as of February 2, 2022, the average sale price for the 2021

version of the shoes is $282:

-27-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 29 of 73

Yet, as of February 2, 2022, the average price of the Vault NFT purportedly linked to these shoes

is $809, with the highest trade being $3500:

-28-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 30 of 73

64. Another example is the sacai x KAWS Blazer Low Neptune Blue size 10 M which

retails for $140 from nike.com:

-29-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 31 of 73

According to StockX’s marketplace, as of February 2, 2022, the average sale price for the shoes

is $205:

-30-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 32 of 73

As of February 2, 2022, the average price, however, of the Vault NFT purportedly linked to these

shoes is $590, with the highest trade being $3995:

-31-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 33 of 73

-32-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 34 of 73

65. These significant price discrepancies continue, and as of the current date certain

Nike-branded Vault NFTs are still selling for thousands of dollars above the price of the physical

shoe.

66. As of the date Nike filed this action, StockX stated that the Vault NFTs are minted

on the Ethereum blockchain, “offering owners the opportunity to invest in current culture, with

cross-platform liquidity on the horizon.” See https://stockx.com/lp/nfts/. As of the date Nike filed

this action, StockX also stated that Vault NFT owners may be granted exclusive access to StockX

benefits, promotions, experiences, and rewards. Id.

67. As of the date Nike filed this action, StockX further stated that NFT owners may

redeem the token to have the shoes delivered at any time. But, as shown below, StockX also

simultaneously stated that the “redemption process is not currently available,” but may be

sometime in the “near future.”

Upon redemption, StockX states that it will remove the shoes from the vault, charge “a $35

withdrawal fee, a $14 shipping fee, and any applicable sales tax” on top of the price the owner

paid for the Vault NFT, and ship them to the owner. See https://stockx.com/help/articles/What-

fees-are-associated-with-Vault-NFTs. StockX will then remove the Vault NFT from circulation

-33-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 35 of 73

by deleting it from the owner’s portfolio (i.e., StockX will “burn” the Vault NFT). See, e.g.,

https://stockx.com/retro-black-and-white-dunk-vault-nft.

68. StockX’s Terms and Conditions, as of the date Nike filed this action, included

sections titled “Vault Terms” and “NFT Terms” (collectively, the “Vault NFT Terms”) which

govern the Vault NFT offerings. See https://stockx.com/terms.

69. According to the Vault NFT Terms in place as of the date Nike filed this action,

when a consumer purchases a Vault NFT, the consumer gains title to both the purchased Vault

NFT (i.e., the digital collectible) and the Stored Item (i.e., the physical goods) to which the NFT

corresponds, and the consumer automatically makes use of StockX’s Vault Services (i.e., storage

of the physical goods in StockX’s facility). Id.

70. As of the date Nike filed this action, the Vault NFT Terms also stated that (i) a

Vault NFT (i.e., the digital collectible) has no value beyond that of the associated Stored Item (i.e.,

the physical goods), and (ii) the Vault Services are currently provided by StockX at no additional

cost; however, a Vault NFT owner may be required to pay additional fees if they elect to have a

Stored Item shipped to them or if they use the Vault Services past January 31, 2023. Id.

71. Notably, under the Vault NFT Terms in place from launch through at least the date

Nike filed this action, StockX also retained the right to unilaterally redeem a Vault NFT for a so-

called “Experiential Component,” and cancel or take away the NFT, i.e., the Vault NFT owner

never receives the physical version of the shoes or loses the opportunity to do so. Specifically, the

Vault NFT Terms stated, “Note that in some cases, per the applicable Additional NFT Terms,

StockX may automatically redeem your NFT for an Experiential Component,2 at its sole discretion,

2
As of the date Nike filed this action, the phrase “Experiential Component” was explained and
defined under the Vault NFT Terms as follows: “NFTs may take a variety of forms, and the holders
of NFTs may be entitled to obtain certain products, benefits or engage in certain experiences, such

-34-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 36 of 73

in which case StockX may remove the NFT from your portfolio and you will cease to own the

NFT.” See https://stockx.com/terms:

72. Upon information and belief, the provision in Paragraph 70 stating that the Vault

NFT has no value apart from the physical shoes directly conflicted with the terms described in

Paragraph 71 above: because StockX retained the right to redeem the Vault NFT for an

Experiential Component, the Vault NFT does, in fact, have value apart from the physical shoes.

The provision likewise directly conflicted with StockX’s other previous statement that the Vault

NFT includes additional benefits beyond the physical shoes, such as “exclusive access to StockX

releases, promotions, events, as a result of ownership.”

73. Since Nike filed this action and, upon information and belief, after StockX already

sold off and provided a platform for the resale of all the infringing Nike-branded NFTs, StockX

repeatedly revised these terms and statements. For example, from January 18, 2022 through at

least April 25, 2022, StockX included the following statements on its NFT landing page, currently

as unlocking a prize or entry into an exclusive sale (“Experiential Component”), as determined by


StockX in its sole discretion, subject to any additional terms provided by StockX with or in
connection with the purchase of such NFT (“Additional NFT Terms”).” See
https://stockx.com/terms.

-35-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 37 of 73

located at https://stockx.com/lp/nfts/, which Nike pointed out to the Court in a statement filed on

March 31, 2022 [Dkt. No. 23]:

At some point on or around April 25, 2022, StockX removed this language, replacing it with

statements that attempt to align with its defensive theme:

-36-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 38 of 73

74. None of StockX’s trivial, post-hoc changes have resolved its ongoing infringement

and dilution of Nike’s trademarks, and what StockX has opted not to change speaks volumes: to

date, StockX has not removed or in any way modified the prominent use and display of Nike’s

marks from the infringing Nike-branded Vault NFTs.

75. As of February 2, 2022, StockX’s Vault NFT collection comprised nine NFTs, as

shown below. Eight of the nine prominently display Nike’s marks and are associated with Nike

products. Upon information and belief, StockX almost exclusively used Nike’s marks to launch

its Vault NFTs because it knew that doing so would garner attention, drive sales, and confuse

consumers into believing that Nike collaborated with StockX on the Vault NFTs.

-37-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 39 of 73

76. To date, upon information and belief, StockX has sold 558 individual Nike-branded

Vault NFTs. Some of the infringing Nike-branded Vault NFTs are editions of 1, others are editions

of 100, and some are as many as editions of 250. Upon information and belief, StockX has also

minted—but not yet sold—at least another 2,000 infringing Nike-branded Vault NFTs purportedly

linked to Nike’s Air Jordan 11 Retro Cool Grey shoes. Given that StockX is not an authorized

Nike retailer, to the extent all corresponding physical Nike shoes exist at StockX’s “vault” facility,

it is not clear where or how StockX acquired that many pairs of “100% Authentic” Nike shoes.

-38-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 40 of 73

77. On the StockX product pages for its Vault NFTs, as shown below as of the date

Nike filed its action, StockX prominently displayed Nike’s word marks in large, bold text at the

top of the page, and couples Nike’s marks with its own “Vault NFT” designation in parentheticals

in the same large, bold text.

78. StockX also touted each Vault NFT as “100% Authentic,” which, upon information

and belief, is intended to explicitly mislead consumers that Nike has authorized, approved,

sponsored, and/or endorsed StockX’s Vault NFTs.

-39-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 41 of 73

79. Further down the StockX product page for each Vault NFT as of the date Nike filed

this action, StockX provided “Product Details,” which included a “Product Description,” that also

uses Nike’s marks. For example, StockX’s description for the Nike Dunk Low Retro White Black

(Vault NFT) opens with: “One of the most popular Nike Dunks of 2021 is now a part of StockX’s

Vault NFT experience.”

If a consumer clicks on the “Read More” button, additional text appears, including “The Fine

Print,” which states: “If the physical item associated with this Vault NFT is redeemed by the owner,

it is removed from the StockX Vault and shipped to the owner. StockX will then remove the Vault

-40-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 42 of 73
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 43 of 73

81. In addition to the vivid image of the Nike shoe each Vault NFT purports to

represent, the StockX product page for each Vault NFT, as of the date Nike filed this action, also

displayed a second image, the “back” of the Vault NFT, as shown below:

82. As of February 3, 2022, StockX stated, in large font, “How It Works,” with four

bolded bullet points explaining, in simple terms, what users can do with a Vault NFT. Below the

-42-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 44 of 73

four bullet points, in comically and intentionally small, difficult-to-read font, StockX also stated:

“The purpose of the NFT is solely to track the ownership of and transactions in connection with

the associated product. The NFT does not independently authenticate the associated product, nor

is it affiliated or associated with, sponsored by, or officially connected to Nike or any of its

subsidiaries or affiliates. For more information on official Nike products, please visit Nike.com.”

Putting aside the ineffectiveness of this tiny disclaimer and the additional small print disclaimers

added since this action was filed the “does not independently authenticate” language appears to

conflict with the “100% Authentic” on the product page.

83. Upon information and belief, recognizing the tremendous value of the Nike brand

to consumers, StockX is also using Nike’s trademarks and images of Nike’s products to promote

its Vault NFTs on the StockX Website, StockX App, and on StockX’s social media accounts. For

example, as of the date Nike filed this action, StockX promoted its Vault NFTs on its website with

the following images incorporating Nike’s products and trademarks:

-43-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 45 of 73

84. StockX was also using Nike’s trademarks and images of Nike’s products on paid

Google Ads to promote its Vault NFTs:

-44-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 46 of 73

85. As of the present date, StockX’s Twitter account displayed a banner image

depicting two Nike shoes, which appears to be the same image used by StockX to promote the

Vault NFTs on its website, as shown above:

86. On January 18, 2022, to promote the launch of its Vault NFTs, StockX posted to

its Instagram account a series of images depicting Nike’s trademarks and products, including the

two shown below:

-45-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 47 of 73

87. The full caption of the above Instagram post states: “NFTs are on StockX.

Introducing #StockXVault: a digital NFT that’s backed by a physical product and stored in a

StockX facility. This is just the beginning of our web3 future. Available for trading now. Links

to purchase in Product Tags and Stories. Welcome to the future of culture. Learn more at the link

in bio.”

88. On January 26, 2022, StockX again promoted its Vault NFTs by posting to its

Instagram account a pair of images depicting Nike’s trademarks and product, including the one

shown below:

-46-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 48 of 73

89. The full caption of the above Instagram post states: “A new #StockXVault arrival:

The Jordan 1 High Patent Bred. Limited to 250 editions, each size 10, and available for trading

immediately. Links to purchase in the Product Tags and Stories. Tap fast to add to your portfolio.”

90. Also on January 26, 2022, StockX tweeted a promotional video for the Jordan 1

Retro High OG Patent Bred Vault NFT:

-47-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 49 of 73

91. As shown above, as of the date Nike filed this action, StockX was using Nike’s

trademarks to market, promote, and attract potential purchasers to its Vault NFTs. StockX’s use

of Nike’s marks is, upon information and belief, intentionally deceiving consumers into believing

that Nike sponsors or approves of the Vault NFTs.

92. StockX’s Vault NFTs are not Nike products. There is no collaboration between

Nike and StockX, Nike did not provide a license to StockX to use its trademarks in connection

with the Vault NFTs, Nike did not create or inspect the Vault NFTs or authorize the confusing and

misleading Vault NFT Terms, and Nike did not authorize StockX to make, promote, advertise,

market, or sell the Vault NFTs.

93. While StockX represents that the Vault NFTs are “backed by” and confer title to

genuine Nike products, StockX has marketed them as bundled with additional digital goods,

services, and unspecified benefits in such a manner that the Vault NFTs constitute new,

-48-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 50 of 73

unauthorized products created, marketed, offered for sale, and sold by StockX, exclusively on the

StockX Website and StockX App.

94. Despite StockX’s prominent use of Nike’s trademarks and products in connection

with the Vault NFTs, Nike has no control over the quality of the Vault NFTs whatsoever. Nike

has no say in how many Vault NFTs bearing its trademarks are released, where the Vault NFTs

are released and traded, when the Vault NFTs are released, how the Vault NFTs are released,

traded, or redeemed, and at what price the Vault NFTs are sold and traded.

95. As noted in Paragraphs 63-65 above, the Vault NFTs are presently trading for

inflated prices that are multiples higher than both the original retail price of the shoes and the

current resale price on the secondary market.

96. The Vault NFTs’ inflated prices and murky terms of purchase and ownership have

already led to public criticism of StockX and allegations that the Vault NFTs are a scam. For

example, on January 19, 2022, Input Magazine published an article on its website entitled

“StockX’s ‘sneaker’ NFTs are kind of a scam hidden in plain sight.” The article’s author, Ian

Servantes, highlights the Vault NFT Terms that suggest the benefits of Vault NFT ownership may

be entirely illusory:

Owner’s [sic] of StockX’s limited series of sneaker NFTs will be


given exclusive access to the company’s releases, promotions, and
events, according to the announcement page. But if you dig further
into the term’s [sic] of service, as Sole Retriever did, you’ll find that
StockX has been given license to redeem your NFT for an
‘experiential component’ and even take away your ownership of the
NFT as a result of the transaction.

The initial offering for StockX’s NFTs have already sold out, so let’s
say you decide to engage in a secondary purchase for an NFT. You
purchase, say, the NFT for the Nike x Ben & Jerry’s “Chunky
Dunky,” which has an ask of $100,000 and a highest bid of $3,000.
Now that it’s yours you don’t get the actual sneaker, and at some

-49-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 51 of 73

point StockX can come in say, Here’s access to an early sale or a


discount, and by the way, that NFT is no longer yours.

Even in a field as fishy NFTs, StockX’s proposition smells like one


of the most obvious grifts you’re likely to see. In a bid to stand out
as different as NFTs, StockX has instead made tokens that make it
even more clear that you’re the mark.

See https://www.inputmag.com/style/stockx-vault-nfts-sneakers-shoes-nike-off-

white-dunk-adidas-bad-bunny.

97. The above impression of StockX’s Vault NFTs demonstrates that they have been

received by potential purchasers with suspicion and doubts about the integrity and trustworthiness

of StockX’s NFT business model. This example also shows that StockX’s prominent use of Nike’s

trademarks and products in connection with the Vault NFTs has already generated negative

associations with Nike’s trademarks and products that harm Nike’s business reputation and the

goodwill associated with its trademarks, in which Nike has invested immense resources to develop

over the past five decades.

98. Upon information and belief, StockX has attempted to capitalize on Nike’s valuable

reputation and goodwill by using Nike’s Asserted Marks and/or confusingly similar marks in a

manner that is likely to cause consumers to believe that StockX’s Vault NFTs are associated with

Nike, when they are not. Indeed, as noted in Paragraph 80 above, if StockX merely intended to

use NFTs as digital receipts as it claims, there would be no need to make such extensive and

prominent use of Nike’s trademarks. Upon information and belief, this prominent use of Nike’s

marks was intended to free ride on Nike’s immense goodwill and satisfy consumer desire to own

Nike-branded virtual goods, which owners can display in their portfolios.

99. StockX’s use of Nike’s trademarks and images of Nike’s products to promote its

Vault NFTs has already created confusion in the marketplace as to the Vault NFTs’ source and

-50-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 52 of 73

whether Nike is in any way involved or associated with StockX’s Vault NFTs. For example,

immediately after StockX announced the Vault NFTs’ release, on January 18, 2022, users on social

media questioned the propriety of StockX’s Vault NFTs and whether Nike is “in on it too,” while

others “feel safe assuming Nike gets a cut of the fees that StockX takes from each transaction.”

-51-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 53 of 73

100. Consumer confusion as to whether Nike is associated with StockX’s Vault NFTs

was also immediately evident on Twitter, where, on January 18, 2022, a user replied to a StockX

tweet promoting the launch of its Vault NFTs, asking whether the Vault NFTS are

“endorsed/approved by Nike/Adidas etc?”:

101. The following day, January 19, 2022, Reddit users on another thread under the

r/Sneakers subreddit wondered whether Nike had granted StockX a license to use Nike’s

“branding”:

-52-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 54 of 73

102. On that same day, January 19, 2022, and same thread under the r/Sneakers

subreddit, another confused user expressed their (incorrect) belief that “Nike gets a small

commission every time an NFT is purchased,” and that StockX’s Vault NFTs are “a way for Nike

to get a piece of the huge pie of the resale market” while not bringing any added benefit to the

buyer:

103. Additionally, on January 21, 2022, in response to a video posted earlier that same

day discussing StockX’s Vault NFTs, one confused TikTok user commented: “You can just cash

out of the nft for the actual shoe but I think it’s just a stupid scam for Nike to make money.”

-53-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 55 of 73
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 56 of 73

See https://www.zenger.news/2022/05/02/nike-takes-a-major-step-into-the-metaverse/.

105. But Nike’s Dunk Genesis Cryptokicks™ NFTs did not debut on StockX, and users

of StockX’s platform cannot buy NFTs supported by Nike. This was precisely the sort of

confusion that Nike feared would ensue when it filed this action and began releasing genuine

NFTs.

StockX’s Counterfeit Sales and Claims of Authenticity

106. In addition to the infringing and dilutive conduct related to the Vault NFTs, Nike’s

continuing investigation into StockX’s conduct has also revealed that StockX has been and is

currently dealing in counterfeit Nike goods.

107. Between December 2021 and January 2022, Nike obtained from StockX’s platform

at least four pairs of counterfeit Nike shoes. Since the filing of this action, Nike has confirmed

that these four pairs of shoes are, in fact, counterfeit. As noted above, one of the confirmed pairs

of counterfeit Nike shoes is a counterfeit Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG in the Black/Varsity Red-

White colorway—the exact same style that StockX has purportedly linked to one of its eight

infringing Nike-branded Vault NFTs:

-55-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 57 of 73
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 58 of 73

StockX on its social media channels. Nike’s investigation remains ongoing and, upon information

and belief, StockX is selling and will continue to sell counterfeit Nike goods to unsuspecting

consumers.

110. StockX claims on the StockX Website that every item StockX sells on its e-

commerce platform—including those items purportedly associated with the Vault NFTs—has

been independently verified by StockX as “100% Verified Authentic.” The confirmed purchase

of counterfeit Nike goods on StockX’s platform—including the same style purportedly associated

with at least one of the infringing Nike-branded Vault NFTs—directly undermines StockX’s

“100% Verified Authentic” claims and its claims about the “proprietary multi-step verification

process” it employs to authenticate goods and renders these statements false and/or misleading.

111. StockX’s “100% Verified Authentic” claims and its claims about the “proprietary

multi-step verification process” it employs to authenticate goods sold on its e-commerce platform

are material because StockX is misrepresenting an inherent quality or characteristic of the Nike

goods sold on its platform, i.e., that they are not counterfeit and have been authenticated as

genuine. Moreover, StockX’s claims are likely to influence consumer purchasing decisions

because consumers shopping for real Nike goods are more likely to purchase from StockX than

other channels based on StockX’s prominent claims about the authenticity of the Nike goods for

sale on its platform and based on its statements that its authentication process is proprietary, that

StockX authenticators are “better equipped than anyone” to confirm the authenticity of a product.

112. On information and belief, an unknown number of consumers have been deceived

by and purchased counterfeit Nike goods or Nike-branded Vault NFTs based on StockX’s false

and/or misleading statements about the authenticity of the Nike goods for sale on its platform.

-57-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 59 of 73

113. On information and belief, StockX knows that its false and/or misleading

statements about the authenticity of the Nike goods for sale on its platform deceives consumers.

Nevertheless, StockX continues to engage in such improper and unlawful business practices to

attract consumers to its platform and induce consumers to purchase supposedly genuine Nike

goods and purchase and trade the infringing Nike-branded Vault NFTs.

114. The continued sale of counterfeit Nike goods on StockX’s platform and StockX’s

false and/or misleading claims about its authentication process and verified authenticity have

caused and are causing Nike injury as a result of, inter alia, harm to reputation, diverted sales,

consumer confusion, dilution, and tarnishment of its valuable trademarks.

115. By virtue of the acts complained of herein, StockX has created a likelihood of injury

to Nike’s business reputation and goodwill, caused a likelihood of consumer confusion, mistake,

and deception as to the source of origin or relationship of Nike’s products and StockX’s Vault

NFTs, and has otherwise competed unfairly by unlawfully dealing in counterfeit Nike goods,

making false and/or misleading statements, and trading on and using Nike’s Asserted Marks

without Nike’s permission.

116. Unless stopped, StockX’s Vault NFTs, StockX’s use of Nike’s Asserted Marks,

StockX’s dealing in counterfeit Nike goods, and StockX’s false and/or misleading statements will

continue to confuse consumers in the marketplace and dilute Nike’s famous marks by blurring and

tarnishment.

117. As noted above in Paragraph 6 above, StockX has already announced its plans to

expand its Vault NFT business, which will likely include additional uses of Nike’s famous

trademarks and products. In addition to StockX’s announcement referenced above, StockX

confirmed its plans to release additional Vault NFTs on Twitter:

-58-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 60 of 73

118. Indeed, since this action was filed, Nike discovered that StockX has also minted—

but not yet sold—at least another 2,000 infringing Nike-branded Vault NFTs purportedly linked

to Nike’s Air Jordan 11 Retro Cool Grey shoes.

119. StockX’s acts complained of herein are willful and deliberate.

120. StockX’s acts complained of herein have caused damage to Nike in an amount to

be determined at trial, and such damages will continue to increase unless StockX is preliminarily

and permanently enjoined from their wrongful acts.

121. StockX’s acts complained of herein have caused Nike to suffer irreparable injury

to its business. Nike will suffer substantial loss of goodwill and reputation unless and until StockX

is permanently enjoined from the wrongful acts complained of herein.

FIRST CAUSE OF ACTION


TRADEMARK INFRINGEMENT
15 U.S.C. § 1114

122. Nike repeats and realleges each and every allegation in the foregoing Paragraphs 1

to 121 as if fully set forth herein.

123. Nike’s Asserted Marks are on the Principal Register of the United States Patent and

Trademark Office.

-59-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 61 of 73

124. Through extensive and continuous use, Nike’s Asserted Marks and the goodwill of

the businesses associated with them in the United States and throughout the world are of significant

value, are highly distinctive and arbitrary or fanciful, and have become universally associated in

the public mind with Nike, its products and services, and the very highest quality and reputation.

125. StockX has knowingly used and continues to use in commerce, without Nike’s

permission or authorization, Nike’s Asserted Marks, and/or confusingly similar marks, in

connection with the sale, distribution, and advertising of its Vault NFTs.

126. StockX’s conduct is intended to exploit the goodwill and reputation associated with

Nike’s Asserted Marks.

127. StockX’s use of Nike’s Asserted Marks is likely to confuse, mislead, or deceive

potential consumers, purchasers, and the general purchasing public as to the source, origin,

sponsorship, or affiliation of the Vault NFTs with Nike, and is likely to cause such people to

erroneously believe that StockX’s Vault NFTs have been authorized, sponsored, approved,

endorsed, or licensed by Nike or that StockX is in some way affiliated with Nike.

128. StockX’s unauthorized use of Nike’s Asserted Marks constitutes trademark

infringement of Nike’s federally registered trademarks, which has caused damage to Nike and the

substantial business and good will embodied in Nike’s trademarks in violation of Section 32 of the

Lanham Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1114.

129. As a direct and proximate result of StockX’s wrongful acts, Nike has suffered,

continues to suffer, and/or is likely to suffer damage to its trademarks, business reputation, and

good will that money cannot compensate. Unless enjoined, StockX will continue to use Nike’s

Asserted Marks and/or confusingly similar marks and will cause irreparable damage to Nike,

-60-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 62 of 73

Nike’s Asserted Marks, and to the business and good will represented thereby, for which Nike has

no adequate remedy at law.

130. Nike is further entitled to recover from StockX the actual damages Nike has

sustained, is sustaining, and/or is likely to sustain as a result of StockX’s wrongful acts.

131. Upon information and belief, StockX has obtained gains, profits, and advantages as

a result of its wrongful acts and will continue to do so in an amount yet to be determined.

132. StockX’s use of Nike’s Asserted Marks and/or confusingly similar marks has been

intentional and willful. StockX’s bad faith is evidenced, in part, by the egregious and prominent

use of Nike’s Asserted Marks in connection with the sale and promotion of the Vault NFTs, and

the extensive nature of the infringement. Because of the willful nature of StockX’s wrongful acts,

Nike is entitled to an award of treble damages and increased profits under 15 U.S.C. § 1117.

133. Because this is an exceptional case, Nike is also entitled to recover its costs of suit

and its attorneys’ fees pursuant to 15 U.S.C. § 1117.

SECOND CAUSE OF ACTION


FALSE DESIGNATION OF ORIGIN / UNFAIR COMPETITION
15 U.S.C. § 1125(a)

134. Nike repeats and realleges each and every allegation in the foregoing Paragraphs 1

to 121 as if fully set forth herein.

135. StockX’s unauthorized use of Nike’s Asserted Marks and/or confusingly similar

marks constitutes a false designation of origin that is likely to cause consumer confusion, mistake,

or deception as to the origin, sponsorship, or approval of StockX’s Vault NFTs by creating the

false and/or misleading impression StockX’s Vault NFTs are produced by, authorized by, or

otherwise associated with Nike.

-61-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 63 of 73

136. As a direct and proximate result of StockX’s wrongful acts, Nike has suffered,

continues to suffer, and/or is likely to suffer damage to its trademarks, business reputation, and

good will that money cannot compensate. Unless enjoined, StockX will continue to use Nike’s

Asserted Marks and/or confusingly similar marks and will cause irreparable damage to Nike,

Nike’s Asserted Marks, and to the business and good will represented thereby, for which Nike has

no adequate remedy at law.

137. Nike is further entitled to recover from StockX the actual damages Nike has

sustained, is sustaining, and/or is likely to sustain as a result of StockX’s wrongful acts.

138. StockX’s use of Nike’s Asserted Marks and/or confusingly similar marks has been

intentional and willful. StockX’s bad faith is evidenced, in part, by the egregious and prominent

use of Nike’s Asserted Marks in connection with the sale and promotion of the Vault NFTs, and

the extensive nature of the infringement. Because of the willful nature of StockX’s wrongful acts,

Nike is entitled to an award of treble damages and increased profits under 15 U.S.C. § 1117.

139. Because this is an exceptional case, Nike is also entitled to recover its costs of suit

and its attorneys’ fees pursuant to 15 U.S.C. § 1117.

THIRD CAUSE OF ACTION


TRADEMARK DILUTION
15 U.S.C. § 1125(c)

140. Nike repeats and realleges each and every allegation in the foregoing Paragraphs 1

to 121 as if fully set forth herein.

141. As a result of the duration, extent, and geographical reach of advertising and

publicity, the amount, volume, and geographical extent of Nike’s sales and trading areas, their

channels of trade, their degree of recognition, and registration, Nike’s Asserted Marks have

-62-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 64 of 73

become distinctive and “famous” within the meaning of Section 43(c) of the Lanham Act, 15

U.S.C. § 1125(c).

142. Nike’s Asserted Marks have become distinctive and famous prior to StockX’s acts

as alleged herein.

143. StockX’s unauthorized and wrongful use of Nike’s Asserted Marks in commerce

has diluted and will, unless enjoined, continue to dilute, and is likely to dilute the distinctive quality

of Nike’s Asserted Marks, in violation of Nike’s rights under 15 U.S.C. § 1125(c)

144. StockX’s unauthorized and wrongful use of Nike’s Asserted Marks in commerce

has tarnished and will, unless enjoined, continue to tarnish, and is likely to tarnish the fame of

Nike’s Asserted Marks by undermining and damaging the valuable good will associated therewith,

in violation of Nike’s rights under 15 U.S.C. § 1125(c).

145. StockX’s acts as alleged herein are intentional and willful in violation of Section

43(c) of the Lanham Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1125(c), and have already caused Nike irreparable damage

and will, unless enjoined, continue to so damage Nike, which has no adequate remedy at law.

146. Nike is further entitled to recover from StockX the actual damages Nike has

sustained, is sustaining, and/or is likely to sustain as a result of StockX’s wrongful acts.

147. Upon information and belief, StockX has obtained gains, profits, and advantages as

a result of its wrongful acts and will continue to do so in an amount yet to be determined.

148. StockX’s use of Nike’s Asserted Marks and/or confusingly similar marks has been

intentional and willful. StockX’s bad faith is evidenced, in part, by the egregious and prominent

use of Nike’s Asserted Marks in connection with the sale and promotion of the Vault NFTs, and

the extensive nature of the infringement. Because of the willful nature of StockX’s wrongful acts,

Nike is entitled to an award of treble damages and increased profits under 15 U.S.C. § 1117.

-63-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 65 of 73

149. Because this is an exceptional case, Nike is also entitled to recover its costs of suit

and its attorneys’ fees pursuant to 15 U.S.C. § 1117.

FOURTH CAUSE OF ACTION


INJURY TO BUSINESS REPUTATION AND DILUTION
NEW YORK GENERAL BUSINESS LAW § 360-1

150. Nike repeats and realleges each and every allegation in the foregoing Paragraphs 1

to 121 as if fully set forth herein.

151. Nike, on behalf of itself and the general consuming public, seek recovery from

StockX for violation of New York’s Anti-Dilution Statute, N.Y. Gen. Bus. Law § 360-1, et seq.

152. Nike’s Asserted Marks are commercially and conceptually strong trademarks,

which have become distinctive and acquired a secondary meaning capable of dilution.

153. Nike’s Asserted Marks have become distinctive and acquired a secondary meaning

capable of dilution prior to StockX’s acts as alleged herein.

154. StockX’s unauthorized and wrongful use of Nike’s Asserted Marks has diluted and

will, unless enjoined, continue to dilute, and is likely to dilute the distinctive quality of Nike’s

Asserted Marks, thereby diminishing the capacity of Nike’s Asserted Marks to function as unique

product identifiers for Nike’s goods and services.

155. StockX’s unauthorized and wrongful use of Nike’s Asserted Marks has tarnished

and will, unless enjoined, continue to tarnish, and is likely to tarnish Nike’s Asserted Marks by

creating negative associations with Nike, its Asserted Marks, and the associated business

reputation and good will.

156. StockX’s acts as alleged herein are intentional and willful in violation of New

York’s Anti-Dilution Statute, N.Y. Gen. Bus. Law § 360-1, et seq., and have already caused Nike

-64-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 66 of 73

irreparable damage and will, unless enjoined, continue to so damage Nike, which has no adequate

remedy at law.

FIFTH CAUSE OF ACTION


COMMON LAW TRADEMARK INFRINGEMENT
AND UNFAIR COMPETITION

157. Nike repeats and realleges each and every allegation in the foregoing Paragraphs 1

to 121 as if fully set forth herein.

158. Through its prior and continuous use of its Asserted Marks in commerce, Nike’s

Asserted Marks have become widely known, and Nike has been identified in the public mind as

the manufacturer of the products to which the Nike Asserted Marks are applied.

159. Through its prior and continuous use of its Asserted Marks in commerce, Nike

enjoys exclusive common law rights in the Asserted Marks.

160. StockX’s use of Nike’s Asserted Marks is without any permission, license or other

authorization from Nike.

161. StockX, with knowledge and intentional disregard of Nike’s rights, continues to

advertise, promote, and sell Vault NFTs using Nike’s Asserted Marks and/or confusingly similar

marks. StockX’s acts have caused, continue to cause, and/or are likely to cause confusion as to the

source and/or sponsorship of the Vault NFTs.

162. StockX’s acts as alleged herein constitute common law trademark infringement,

and have already caused Nike irreparable damage and will, unless enjoined, continue to so damage

Nike, which has no adequate remedy at law.

163. Upon information and belief, StockX committed the acts alleged herein knowingly,

willfully, wantonly, oppressively, fraudulently, maliciously, and in conscious disregard of Nike’s

-65-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 67 of 73

rights, thereby entitling Nike to exemplary and punitive damages pursuant to the common law of

the State of New York in an amount sufficient to punish, deter, and make an example of StockX.

SIXTH CAUSE OF ACTION


COUNTERFEITING
15 U.S.C. § 1114

164. Nike repeats and realleges each and every allegation in the foregoing Paragraphs 1

to 121 as if fully set forth herein

165. Nike’s Asserted Marks are on the Principal Register of the United States Patent and

Trademark Office.

166. Through extensive and continuous use, Nike’s Asserted Marks and the goodwill of

the businesses associated with them in the United States and throughout the world are of significant

value, are highly distinctive and arbitrary or fanciful, and have become universally associated in

the public mind with Nike, its products and services, and the very highest quality and reputation.

167. StockX is acquiring, offering for sale, selling and shipping directly to consumers

shoes bearing counterfeits of the following Nike federally registered trademarks: Reg. No.

1,370,283 (AIR JORDAN word mark); Reg. No. 3,725,535 (Air Jordan & Wings Design mark);

Reg. No. 3,627,820 (JUMPMAN word mark); Reg. No. 1,558,100 (JumpMan Design mark); Reg.

No. 978,952 (NIKE word mark); Reg. No. 1,214,930 (NIKE word mark); Reg. No. 977,190

(Swoosh Design mark); Reg. No. 1,323,343 (Swoosh Design mark); and Reg. No. 1,325,938

(NIKE & Swoosh Design mark).

168. StockX’s counterfeiting activities are likely to cause and actually are causing

confusion, mistake, and deception among the general consuming public as to the quality of Nike’s

authentic shoes. StockX’s unlawful acts are intended to reap the benefit of the immense goodwill

that Nike has created in its goods and constitute counterfeiting of the following Nike federally

-66-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 68 of 73

registered trademarks in violation of § 32(1) of the Lanham Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1114(1): Reg. No.

1,370,283 (AIR JORDAN word mark); Reg. No. 3,725,535 (Air Jordan & Wings Design mark);

Reg. No. 3,627,820 (JUMPMAN word mark); Reg. No. 1,558,100 (JumpMan Design mark); Reg.

No. 978,952 (NIKE word mark); Reg. No. 1,214,930 (NIKE word mark); Reg. No. 977,190

(Swoosh Design mark); Reg. No. 1,323,343 (Swoosh Design mark); and Reg. No. 1,325,938

(NIKE & Swoosh Design mark).

169. Unless enjoined, Nike will continue to suffer immediate and irreparable injury and

StockX will continue to deceive the public unless enjoined from its counterfeiting conduct. Nike

has no adequate remedy at law.

170. Because StockX’s conduct was willful, Nike is entitled to statutory damages of up

to $2 million per counterfeit mark per type of goods or services sold, offered for sale, or distributed,

pursuant to 15 U.S.C. § 1117.

SEVENTH CAUSE OF ACTION


FALSE ADVERTISING
15 U.S.C. § 1125(a)(1)(B)

171. Nike repeats and realleges each and every allegation in the foregoing Paragraphs 1

to 121 as if fully set forth herein.

172. In its pervasive advertising and marketing, StockX explicitly claims and guarantees

that every item it sells—including those items purportedly associated with the Vault NFTs—has

been independently verified by StockX as “100% Verified Authentic” through its “proprietary”

process.

173. In connection with the advertising activities, StockX is falsely and/or misleadingly

claiming that all Nike products sold on StockX’s platform are “100% Verified Authentic” genuine,

non-counterfeit goods manufactured by Nike, when, in fact, StockX is selling to consumers

-67-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 69 of 73

counterfeit Nike shoes. It is also claiming that its process for authenticating products is somehow

“proprietary,” despite the fact that StockX is not the entity that designed, created, manufactured,

packaged, or shipped in the first instance any genuine Nike goods. StockX is therefore

misrepresenting the nature, characteristics, and qualities of its goods and services and is misleading

consumers in the process.

174. Upon information and belief, StockX made these false and/or misleading

representations in order to take advantage of Nike’s immense goodwill and to induce consumers

to purchase Nike shoes on the StockX platform. Nike has an intense interest in stopping StockX

from deceiving and misleading consumers into believing consumers can blindly trust that all of

the Nike shoes offered by StockX are genuine when they are not. StockX’s false and/or misleading

statements are causing immediate and irreparable injury to Nike, by injuring Nike’s reputation in

the marketplace, diverting consumer purchases of genuine Nike goods, and will continue to

damage Nike and deceive consumers unless enjoined by this Court.

175. StockX’s acts constitute false advertising and false representations in violation of

15 U.S.C. § 1125(a)(1)(B). Nike has no adequate remedy at law.

JURY DEMAND

Pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 38(b), Nike hereby demands a trial by jury of

all issues so triable.

PRAYER FOR RELIEF

WHEREFORE, Nike respectfully prays for:

1. A judgment and order that StockX has willfully (A) infringed Nike’s Asserted

Marks and engaged in counterfeiting in violation of 15 U.S.C. §1114, (B) used false designations

of origin and made false and/or misleading statements in violation of 15 U.S.C § 1125(a), (C)

-68-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 70 of 73

diluted at least the Nike Asserted Marks in violation of 15 U.S.C. § 1125(c), (D) injured Nike’s

business reputation and diluted at least Nike’s Asserted Marks violation of New York’s Anti-

Dilution Statute, N.Y. Gen. Bus. Law § 360-1, et seq., and (E) violated Nike’s common law rights

in Nike’s Asserted Marks;

2. A judgment and order enjoining StockX and StockX’s affiliates, officers, agents,

employees, attorneys, and all other persons acting in concert with StockX, during the pendency of

this action and permanently thereafter from:

a. Manufacturing, minting, transporting, promoting, advertising, publicizing,

distributing, offering for sale, or selling any NFT products (including but not

limited to the Vault NFTs) under Nike’s Asserted Marks, any marks substantially

indistinguishable therefrom, or any other marks, names, symbols, or logos which

are likely to cause confusion or to cause mistake or to deceive persons into the

erroneous belief that any products that StockX caused to enter the stream of

commerce or any of StockX’s commercial activities are sponsored or licensed by

Nike, are authorized by Nike, or are connected or affiliated in some way with Nike

or Nike’s Asserted Marks;

b. Manufacturing, minting, transporting, promoting, advertising, publicizing,

distributing, offering for sale, or selling any NFT products (including but not

limited to the Vault NFTs) under Nike’s Asserted Marks, any marks substantially

indistinguishable therefrom, and/or confusingly similar marks;

c. Implying Nike’s approval, endorsement, or sponsorship of, or affiliation or

connection with, StockX’s products, services, or commercial activities, passing off

StockX’s business as that of Nike, or engaging in any act or series of acts which,

-69-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 71 of 73

either alone or in combination, constitutes unfair methods of competition with Nike

and from otherwise interfering with or injuring Nike’s Asserted Marks or the good

will associated therewith;

d. Engaging in any act which is likely to dilute the distinctive quality of the

Nike Asserted Marks and/or injures Nike’s business reputation;

e. Representing or implying that StockX is in any way sponsored by, currently

affiliated with, or licensed by Nike;

f. Engaging in the sale of counterfeit Nike goods;

g. Claiming that every item sold on its platform is “100% Verified Authentic”

through a “proprietary” process or making any false and/or misleading statements

about its product authentication or verification process; or

h. Knowingly assisting, inducing, aiding, or abetting any other person or

business entity in engaging in or performing any of the activities referred to in

paragraphs 2(a) to (e) above;

3. An order that StockX be required to deliver to Nike for destruction any and all Vault

NFTs, associated footwear, digital files, packaging, printed graphics, promotional materials,

business cards, signs, labels, advertisements, flyers, circulars, and any other items in any of their

possession, custody, or control bearing Nike’s Asserted Marks, any marks substantially

indistinguishable therefrom, confusingly similar marks;

4. An order granting an award of damages suffered by Nike according to proof at the

time of trial;

5. An order that StockX account to Nike for any and all profits earned as a result of

StockX’s acts in violation of Nike’s rights;

-70-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 72 of 73

6. An award of three times the amount of compensatory damages and increased profits

pursuant to 15 U.S.C. § 1117(a);

7. An award of three times such profits or damages, whichever amount is greater,

together with a reasonable attorneys’ fees, pursuant to 15 U.S.C. § 1117(b);

8. An award of statutory damages pursuant to 15 U.S.C. § 1117(c);

9. An order granting an award of punitive damages for the willful and wanton nature

of StockX’s aforesaid acts under the New York General Business Law and the common law;

10. An order granting pre-judgment interest on any recovery by Nike;

11. An order granting an award of Nike’s costs, expenses, and reasonable attorneys’

fees; and

12. Granting such other and further relief as is just and proper.

-71-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-1 Filed 05/10/22 Page 73 of 73

Dated: ___________ Respectfully submitted,

By:

DLA PIPER LLP (US)

Tamar Y. Duvdevani
Marc E. Miller
Jared Greenfield
1251 Avenue of the Americas 27th Fl.
New York, New York 10020-1104
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]

Michael Fluhr
555 Mission Street
San Francisco, CA 9410
[email protected]

Attorneys for Plaintiff Nike, Inc.

-72-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 1 of 77

Exhibit B
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 2 of 77

UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT


FOR THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF NEW YORK

NIKE, INC.,
Plaintiff,
Case No.
v. 1:22-cv-000983-___________VEC

STOCKX LLC, [PROPOSED] FIRST AMENDED


Defendant. COMPLAINT

JURY TRIAL REQUESTED

Plaintiff Nike, Inc. (“Nike” or “Plaintiff”) for its First Amended Complaint (“FAC”)

against Defendant StockX LLC (“StockX” or “Defendant”) for trademark infringement,

trademark dilution, counterfeiting, false advertising, and related causes of action alleges as

follows:

PRELIMINARY STATEMENT

1. This lawsuit arises fromOn February 3, 2022, Nike filed its original Complaint

(Plaintiff Nike, Inc.’s Complaint, February 3, 2022 [Dkt. No. 1] (“Complaint”)) in this action

because of Defendant StockX’s unauthorized and infringing use of Nike’s famous marks in

connection with StockX’s entry into the Non-Fungible Token market. Non-Fungible Tokens or

“NFTs” have quickly become pervasive in their use by brand owners seeking to enter the nascent

marketplace of virtual or digital products connected to a token on the blockchain. NFTs are

commonly understood to be blockchain-based virtual products that can be collected, sold, and

traded in the marketplace. They are an exciting way for brands to interact with their consumers

in and out of the “metaverse,” and diverse commercial applications of NFTs have emerged

throughout the past two years. Far more than a fleeting trend, NFTs are part of the future of

commerce.
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 3 of 77

2. Unfortunately, novel product offerings, burgeoning technologies, and gold rush

markets tend to create opportunities for third parties to capitalize on the goodwill of reputable

brands and create confusion in the marketplace. NFTs are, not surprisingly, no exception to the

rule, and this new frontier has swiftly become a virtual playground for infringers to usurp the

goodwill of some of the most famous trademarks in the world and use those trademarks without

authorization to market their virtual products and generate ill-gotten profits.

3. Enter Defendant StockX, the operator of an online resalesecondary market

platform for the resale of various brands of sneakers, apparel, luxury handbags, electronics, and

other collectible goods that purports to provide authentication services to its customers.

According to StockX’s Answer to Nike’s Complaint, StockX is different than other online

marketplaces because it “uses a proprietary, multi-step authentication process for every product

sold on its platform. This process ensures that items traded on StockX conform to the product

descriptions and condition standards advertised by StockX, and that the products offered for sale

are what they claim to be, and are not counterfeit, defective, or used—meaning StockX’s

customers can trust that transactions made through StockX are safe.” (Defendant StockX LLC’s

Answer, March 31, 2022 [Dkt. No. 21] (“Answer”) at 2.)

4. StockX publicly touts the fact that Nike products drive far more sales on its

e-commerce platform than any other brand, and StockX advertisements and social media

accounts are teeming with images of Nike goods. RecognizingStockX is even marketing and

selling Nike goods on its secondary market platform before Nike releases those goods to the

marketplace in the first instance. See https://stockx.com/new-releases/sneakers. StockX built its

secondary market business by exploiting the immense goodwill and reputation that Nike has

amassed through many years as the world’s leading designer, developer, marketer, and seller of

-2-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 4 of 77

athletic footwear and apparel. Now, recognizing firsthand the immense value of Nike’s brands,

StockX has chosenchose to compete inenter the lucrative NFT market, not by taking the time to

develop its own intellectual property rights, but rather by blatantly freeriding, almost exclusively,

on the back of Nike’s famous trademarks and associated goodwill.

5. 4. Specifically, without Nike’s authorization or approval, StockX is “minting”

NFTs that prominently use Nike’s trademarks, marketing those NFTs using Nike’s goodwill, and

selling those NFTs at heavily inflated prices to unsuspecting consumers who believe or are likely

to believe that those “investible digital assets” (as StockX calls them) are, in fact, authorized by

Nike when they are not. Unlike its e-commerce business which caters to buyers and sellers of

goods originating from various companies, nearly all the NFTs minted by StockX to date

areStockX launched its NFT venture almost exclusively with Nike-branded NFTs, yet none of

those NFTs originateoriginates from Nike. Examples of StockX’s infringing NFTs appear

below:

6. 5. StockX claims that its “100% Authentic” Nike-branded “Vault NFTs” do no

more than track ownership of a specific physical Nike product safely secured in its “vault.” But

StockX’s Vault NFTs are far more than just physical Nike shoes, and StockX’s claim that a

Vault NFT exclusively functions as a traceable digital receiptthat StockX has purportedly

authenticated using its “proprietary, multi-step authentication process” and is safely securing in

its “vault.” StockX’s post hoc rationalization that it is simply selling “claim tickets” with no

-3-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 5 of 77

value apart from the physical shoe is belied by its own statements, as well as the fact that those

purported “claim tickets” have sold for thousands of dollars above the price of the physical shoe

that said ticket supposedly claims. Those statements—some of which StockX has modified or

removed from its platform since this action was filed—reflect the fact that StockX’s

Nike-branded Vault NFTs, whose purchasers can trade or collect and displayadmire in their

portfolio“NFT Portfolios,” are, in fact, new virtual products that StockX has bundled with

additional StockX services (e.g., “Vault Services”) and unspecified benefits (e.g., “exclusive

access to StockX releases, promotions, events”). Nike does not sell StockX’s services or

exclusive access to such benefits. Yet StockX’s new virtual products have been created,

marketed, offered for sale, and sold by StockX using Nike’s trademarks without Nike’s consent.

And, according to StockX, it is “just getting started.” See

https://stockx.com/about/stockx-launches-vault-nfts/.

7. 6. Just as troubling arehave been other StockX statements that appear to negate

StockX’s primary claim that a Vault NFT can be readily traded in for the associated physical

shoes stored in a StockX facility. For example, while StockX claimsinitially claimed that Vault

NFT owners may “redeem” the NFT and take possession of the shoes (for an additional fee), it

also statessold the infringing Nike-branded NFTs while stating that “the redemption process is

not currently available” to NFT owners. StockX also, shockingly, retainssold the infringing

Nike-branded NFTs while retaining the right to unilaterally redeem a Vault NFT for a so-called

“Experiential Component,” and take away the NFT, completely depriving the Vault NFT owner

of possession of the shoes that are supposedly connected to the NFT. In the short time since

Nike initiated this action, StockX has repeatedly revised its statements to consumers, hoping to

erase some of the unsavory conduct that Nike’s Complaint identified. Those changes have done

-4-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 6 of 77

nothing to resolve Nike’s claims. Regardless, upon information and belief, by that point StockX

had already offered for sale and sold through its initial inventory of 558 infringing Nike-branded

Vault NFTs. StockX continues to earn revenue on secondary trades of those infringing

Nike-branded NFTs and, unless halted, StockX will continue minting, marketing, and selling

thousands of additional infringing Nike-branded Vault NFTs.

8. 7. Nike did not approve of or authorize StockX’s Nike-branded Vault NFTs.

Those unsanctioned products are likely to confuse consumers, create a false association between

those products and Nike, and dilute Nike’s famous trademarks. Indeed, consumers are already

questioning whether Nike authorized StockX to sell its infringing NFT products, asking how

StockX received “the licensing to sell NFTs with [N]ike branding.” See Paragraph 82101, infra.

StockX’s misappropriation of Nike’s famous trademarks and goodwill to buoy its entry into the

lucrative NFT and digital collectible market deprives Nike of its exclusive right to use its marks

in connection with this new commercial medium. In addition, the Vault NFTs’ inflated prices

and murky terms of purchase and ownership, as discussed further below, have already led to

public criticism of StockX and allegations that the Vault NFTs are a scam. StockX’s prominent

use of Nike’s trademarks in connection with these dubious virtual products has already generated

negative associations with Nike in a way that harms Nike’s reputation and the immense goodwill

that Nike has amassed in its brands. Consumers have even attributed StockX’s conduct to Nike,

with one consumer expressing that the Vault NFTs are “just a stupid scam for Nike to make

money.” See Paragraph 84103, infra (emphasis added).

9. 8. Despite StockX’s prominent use of Nike’s trademarks in connection with the

Vault NFTs, Nike has no control over the quality of the Vault NFTs whatsoever. Nike has no

say in how many Vault NFTs bearing its trademarks are released, where the Vault NFTs are

-5-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 7 of 77

released and traded, when the Vault NFTs are released, how the Vault NFTs are released, traded,

or redeemed, and at what price the Vault NFTs are sold.

10. 9. Nike’s widely publicized December 13, 2021 acquisition of RTFKT, a digital

art and collectible creative studio, demonstrates itsand Nike and RTFKT’s very recent launch of

the highly anticipated and revolutionary MNLTH and CryptoKicks™ NFTs, demonstrate Nike’s

recent investment in NFT technology and services, but and its sophistication in the NFT space.

Prior to these recent developments, however, Nike has been using its famous trademarks in

connection with virtual goods and digital applications for years. Given Nike’s longstanding use

in this space, StockX’s unauthorized and unapproved branding of Vault NFTs with Nike

trademarks is all the more likely to confuse consumers, create a false association between the

parties, jeopardize the capacity of Nike’s famous marks to identify its own digital goods in the

metaverse and beyond, and harm Nike’s reputation through an association with inferior digital

products. Nike therefore

11. As noted, StockX has justified its minting and sale of Nike NFTs by claiming that

the NFTs are associated with vaulted Nike shoes StockX has “authenticated” using a

“proprietary, multi-step authentication process” to ensure “that the products offered for sale are

what they claim to be, and are not counterfeit, defective, or used.” (Answer at 2.) StockX’s

defense to Nike’s Complaint has thus brought to the forefront its “100% Verified Authentic”

claim, “proprietary, multi-step authentication process,” and claim that “StockX’s customers can

trust that transactions made through StockX are safe.” (Id.) To be sure, given the inflated prices

of these so-called “claim tickets,” consumers should be able to trust to a certainty that the

vaulted Nike shoes purportedly associated with the Nike-branded NFTs are not counterfeit.

-6-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 8 of 77

12. Notwithstanding StockX’s repeated guarantees that every item sold through its

platform is “100% Verified Authentic,” since December 2021 and continuing through the filing

of this action, Nike has obtained from StockX four pairs of purportedly “authenticated”

Nike-branded shoes that Nike has verified are, in fact, counterfeit. Those four pairs of

counterfeit shoes were all purchased within a short two-month period on StockX’s platform, all

had affixed to them StockX’s “Verified Authentic” hangtag, and all came with a paper receipt

from StockX in the shoe box stating that the condition of the shoes is “100% Authentic.”

StockX’s refusal to accept returns of purportedly “100% Verified Authentic” products purchased

through its platform make it all the more important for consumers to be able to absolutely trust

that the Nike shoes purchased through StockX are not counterfeit.

13. Nike has no visibility into the StockX “vault” and whether any Nike shoes

contained therein are counterfeit. However, at least one of the four counterfeit pairs of Nike

shoes that Nike obtained from StockX is, in fact, a counterfeit pair of Air Jordan 1 Retro High

OG in the Black/Varsity Red-White colorway. StockX depicts the same shoe on one of the eight

Nike-branded NFTs for sale on StockX’s platform, which is also currently StockX’s top-selling

NFT by total volume sold:

-7-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 9 of 77

14. Given StockX’s statements that its “vaulted” shoes are sourced from its

marketplace and undergo the same “proprietary multi-step authentication process” as the shoes

Nike recently discovered were counterfeit, Nike is all the more concerned that StockX has linked

the infringing Nike-branded NFTs to counterfeit goods and sold those “claim tickets” to fake

shoes at heavily-inflated prices to consumers who had no opportunity to inspect the shoes before

reselling the NFT to another unsuspecting consumer.

15. For these reasons, Nike supplements and amends its Complaint to include

additional causes of action for counterfeiting and false advertising, and requests that the Court

swiftly and permanently stop StockX from continuing to sell Vault NFTs bearing Nike’s famous

marks, selling counterfeit Nike goods, and making false and/or misleading claims regarding the

purported authenticity of those goods.

THE PARTIES

16. 10. Nike is a corporation organized under the laws of the State of Oregon with a

principal place of business at One Bowerman Drive, Beaverton, Oregon 97005.

17. 11. On information and belief, StockX LLC is organized as a Michigan LLC with

its principal place of business located at 1046 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, Michigan 48226.

StockX LLC is an online marketplace and reseller of sneakers, streetwear, electronics, luxury

handbags, and other collectibles. StockX maintains various offices and/or facilities located in

New York, California, and Oregon, including a store and drop-off facility located at 237

Lafayette Street, New York, New York 10012.

18. 12. On information and belief, StockX is the owner and operator of

https://stockx.com (the “StockX Website”) and StockX mobile application (the “StockX App”),

where StockX conducts, inter alia, its online commercial activities.

-8-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 10 of 77

JURISDICTION AND VENUE

19. 13. This action arises under the trademark and, anti-dilution, counterfeiting, and

false advertising laws of the United States, 15 U.S.C. § 1051, et seq., and under statutory and

common law unfair competition. This Court has subject matter jurisdiction at least under 15

U.S.C. § 1121 and 28 U.S.C. §§ 1331 and 1338 because this action arises under federal

trademark law. This Court has supplemental jurisdiction over the remaining claims pursuant to

28 U.S.C. § 1367.

20. 14. This Court has personal jurisdiction over StockX because StockX has

committed, and continues to commit, acts of infringement and, dilution, counterfeiting, and false

advertising in this District, has conducted, and continues to conduct, business in this District

through the StockX Website, StockX App, and a physical store, offices and/or facilities located

in this District, and/or has engaged in continuous and systematic activities in this District.

21. 15. Personal jurisdiction is proper pursuant to N.Y. C.P.L.R. § 302(a) because

StockX regularly conducts, solicits, or transacts business in New York and in this District.

StockX created the StockX Website and StockX App, which are accessible to consumers in New

York, and direct false and/or misleading claims, counterfeit Nike goods, and the unauthorized

and infringing uses of Nike’s trademarks into New York and this District. StockX targets New

York consumers by operating the StockX Website and StockX App, by operating a physical store

and offices and/or facilities in New York, by employing employees in New York, and by

advertising, selling, and offering for sale StockX Vault NFTs through the StockX Website,

StockX App, and related social media accounts. Moreover, StockX is actively recruiting

employees for several open positions located in New York, New York, including a Director,

-9-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 11 of 77

Real Estate, a Sr. Engineering Manager – NFT and Checkout, a Senior Manager, NFT

Partnerships, and a Technical Lead – Notifications.

22. 16. Venue is proper in this District pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1391(b) because

StockX conducts and continues to conduct a substantial and significant amount of business in

this District, a substantial part of the events giving rise to these claims arose in this District, and

customer confusion is likely to occur in this District. Moreover, on information and belief, the

locus of StockX’s Vault NFT and Web3 initiative appears to be in this District. For example,

StockX’s Director, Innovation along with the lead software engineer responsible for developing

and launching StockX’s NFT offering are, on information and belief, located in New York.

Moreover, StockX’s January 18, 2021 announcement of its Vault NFT offering was issued by its

Editorial Director based in New York City. See

https://stockx.com/news/introducing-nfts-on-stockx/. StockX is also actively recruiting in this

District for employees to join its NFT and Web3 program. As just one example, StockX hasthis

year through the filing of this action StockX had postings for the following senior positions

located in New York: Sr. Engineering Manager – NFT and Checkout; and Senior Manager, NFT

Partnerships. See https://boards.greenhouse.io/stockx/jobs/5783991002; and

https://web3.career/senior-manager-nft-partnerships-stockx/15645.

FACTUAL BACKGROUND

NFTs and Blockchain

23. 17. While blockchains have myriad actual and potential uses, a primary use is to

serve as an ecosystem and ledger for blockchain-based assets, like cryptocurrencies (such as

Bitcoin (BTC) and Ether (ETH)) and NFTs. Much like banks track ownership of money in bank

accounts and process transfers from one account to another, storing the information privately,

-10-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 12 of 77

blockchain technology enables the transfer of ownership of cryptocurrencies and NFTs between

accounts, storing the information of the transfer of ownership in blocks of data visible for all to

see. A distinguishing and touted feature of blockchains is decentralization. Unlike bank or other

asset ledgers, which are typically maintained by one or more larger entities, blockchains can be

maintained by innumerable individuals and entities, acting relatively independently but

participating in a coordinated ecosystem. Today there exist many blockchains, the largest of

which supports the Bitcoin cryptocurrency, while the second largest of which, Ethereum,

supports a much broader set of assets, including both the Ether cryptocurrency and NFTs that are

stored and traded on the Ethereum blockchain network.

24. 18. Many blockchain-based assets, like cryptocurrencies, are “fungible.” Like

money in a bank account, each individual coin (or “token”) is not distinguishable from others

and is divisible. For this reason, cryptocurrencies may function as a medium of exchange.

25. 19. By contrast, certain tokens, referred to as “non-fungible tokens” or “NFTs,”

are both indivisible and uniquely identifiable. Their movement can be tracked from one

blockchain address to another via smart contracts. This feature makes it possible to use NFTs to

track ownership or licensed rights over assets, similar to a certificate of ownership or real estate

title.

26. 20. NFTs have been widely used to track ownership over rights (often a limited

license for personal use) to a new type of digital collectible, which may be a digital photograph,

video, artwork, sound recording, avatar, digital clothing, footwear and other products, or other

type of media. These NFT collectibles can be bought, sold, resold, and generally traded on

various platforms.

-11-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 13 of 77

27. 21. While such NFT collectibles have existed for years, beginning in early 2021

interest exploded. Many prominent apparel and consumer goods brands have successfully

launched and sold NFT collections, incorporating their trademarks, trade dress, and other

intellectual property into artwork associated with each NFT. These NFTs have taken many

different forms but have always closely connected the trademark owner with the digital asset. As

further discussed below, Nike is one such market entrant.

Nike’s Business and Valuable Trademark Rights

28. 22. Nike’s principal business activity is the design, development, and worldwide

marketing and selling of athletic footwear, apparel, equipment, accessories, and services.

29. 23. As a result of decades of Nike’s advertising, promotional, and marketing

efforts, Nike has established itself as a multibillion-dollar brand and the world’s leading

designer, marketer, and distributor of athletic footwear and apparel products which are sold in

connection with Nike’s famous trademarks. In addition to spending significant amounts in

support of advertising and promotion of its products and services, Nike conducts successful

marketing campaigns across various social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter,

YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat, to further promote Nike’s products, services,

brands, and trademarks.

30. 24. Nike and its brands have achieved widespread recognition and fame

throughout the United States and the world. Among the purchasing public, Nike’s products and

services are instantly recognizable and are seen as high-quality, innovative, and dependable.

31. 25. Nike is the owner of the right, title, and interest in and to, inter alia, the

following trademarks registered on the Principal Register of the United States Patent and

Trademark Office (collectively, the “Asserted Marks”):

-12-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 14 of 77

Reg. No. Title Trademark Design Reg. Date Classes


1,370,283 AIR JORDAN AIR JORDAN 11/12/1985 25- Clothing,
(word mark) footwear
3,725,535 Air Jordan & 12/15/2009 25- Clothing,
Wings footwear,
Design*1 headgear

3,780,236 DUNK DUNK 4/27/2010 25- Footwear


(word mark)
3,627,820 JUMPMAN JUMPMAN 9/11/2007 25- Clothing,
(word mark) footwear,
headgear
1,558,100 JumpMan 9/26/1989 25- Clothing,
Design Footwear

1,742,019 JumpMan 12/22/1992 25- Clothing,


Design footwear,
headgear

18- Leather
and
imitations of
leather
978,952 NIKE NIKE 2/19/1974 25- Clothing,
(word mark) footwear,
headgear
1,214,930 NIKE NIKE 11/2/1982 25- Footwear
(word mark)
1,243,248 NIKE NIKE 6/21/1983 42- Retail
(word mark) footwear and
apparel
services
6,124,779 NIKE NIKE 8/11/2020 35- Retail
(word mark) store services
and on-line
retail store
services
1,238,853 NIKE & 5/17/1983 42- Retail
Swoosh footwear and
Design* apparel
services

1
* indicates unofficial, descriptive title.

-13-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 15 of 77

1,325,938 NIKE & 3/19/1985 25- Footwear


Swoosh
Design*

5,286,596 NIKE AIR NIKE AIR VAPORMAX 9/12/2017 25- Footwear


VAPORMAX (word mark)
977,190 Swoosh Design 1/22/1974 25- Footwear

1,264,529 Swoosh Design 1/17/1984 42- Retail


footwear and
apparel
services

1,323,343 Swoosh Design 3/5/1985 25- Footwear

5,794,674 Swoosh Design 7/2/2019 35- Retail


store services
and on-line
retail store
services

32. 26. The above U.S. registrations for Nike’s Asserted Marks are valid, subsisting,

unrevoked, uncancelled, and in full force and effect.

33. 27. Pursuant to 15 U.S.C. § 1065, of Nike’s Asserted Marks, the following

federally registered Nike trademarks are incontestable and constitute prima facie evidence their

validity, Nike’s ownership, and Nike’s exclusive right to use these marks:

a. Reg. No. 1,370,283 (AIR JORDAN word mark)

b. Reg. No. 3,725,535 (Air Jordan & Wings Design mark);

c. Reg. No. 3,780,236 (DUNK word mark);

-14-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 16 of 77

d. Reg. No. 3,627,820 (JUMPMAN word mark);

e. Reg. No. 1,558,100 (JumpMan Design mark);

f. Reg. No. 978,952 (NIKE word mark);

g. Reg. No. 1,214,930 (NIKE word mark);

h. Reg. No. 1,243,248 (NIKE word mark);

i. Reg. No. 977,190 (Swoosh Design mark);

j. Reg. No. 1,264,529 (Swoosh Design mark);

k. Reg. No. 1,323,343 (Swoosh Design mark);

l. Reg. No. 1,238,853 (Swoosh Design mark); and

m. Reg. No. 1,325,938 (Swoosh Design mark).

34. 28. Nike also owns extensive common law rights in the Asserted Marks for use in

connection with Nike’s goods and services. Nike uses the Asserted Marks on or in connection

with many of its products and services.

35. 29. Nike’s Asserted Marks identify, in the United States and throughout the

world, high-quality products and services designed, produced, and offered by Nike.

36. 30. Nike intends to continue to preserve and maintain its rights in the Asserted

Marks. Nike has continuously used the Asserted Marks in interstate commerce in connection

with the sale, distribution, promotion, and advertising of genuine Nike goods and services since

their respective dates of first use as noted on the federal trademark registration certificates. And,

as discussed further below, Nike has also used the Asserted Marks in connection with virtual

products and intends to further expand such use as reflected in its pending trademark

applications.

-15-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 17 of 77

37. 31. As a result of continuous and long-standing promotion, substantial sales, and

consumer recognition, Nike has developed powerful trademarks rights, built substantial goodwill

in the Asserted Marks, and has never abandoned that goodwill. As a result, Nike’s Asserted

Marks have become distinctive and “famous” within the meaning of Section 43(c) of the

Lanham Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1125(c).

38. 32. Having distinctive trademarks that are readily identifiable is an important

factor in creating and maintaining a market for Nike’s products, in identifying Nike and its

brands, and in distinguishing Nike’s products from the products of others.

39. 33. Nike maintains strict quality control standards for products bearing the

Asserted Marks. Genuine Nike products bearing the Asserted Marks are inspected and approved

by Nike prior to distribution and sale.

40. 34. Nike also maintains strict control over the use of the Asserted Marks in

connection with its products so that the company can maintain control over its reputation and

goodwill. Nike, for example, carefully determines how many products bearing the Asserted

Marks are released, and when, where, and how those products are sold.

Nike’s Activities in the Virtual Products Market

41. 35. Nike has used the Asserted Marks in connection with a variety of physical

goods and associated services for decades. Nike has also for some time incorporated the

Asserted Marks into its virtual products. For example, in October 2019, Nike, through its

SNKRS mobile application, partnered with 2K Sports, makers of the NBA 2K basketball

videogame franchise, to offer “Gamer Exclusives,” limited edition digital and physical Nike

sneakers that NBA 2K20 players can unlock through gameplay. See

https://news.nike.com/news/nba-2k20-x-nike-gamer-exclusives.

-16-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 18 of 77

42. 36. On October 27 and 28, 2021, Nike filed applications to register the following

trademarks with the United States Patent and Trademark Office for use in connection with, inter

alia, “[d]ownloadable virtual goods, namely computer programs featuring footwear,” (i.e., digital

sneaker NFTs) and “[r]etail store services featuring virtual goods, namely footwear” (i.e., a

digital sneaker NFT trading platform):

a. NIKE (word mark) (Serial No. 97095855);

b. JORDAN (word mark) (Serial No. 97096950);

c. (Serial No. 97096952);

d. (Serial No. 97096945);

e. (Serial No. 97095944); and

f. (Serial No. 97096366).

43. 37. On December 13, 2021, Nike announced that it had acquired RTFKT, a

leading digital art and collectible creative studio that has created some of the most popular

apparel-related digital artwork NFT releases to date, including the CYBERSNEAKER,

-17-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 19 of 77

METAJACKET, and FEWO Shoes, collectible digital sneakers designed in collaboration with

teenage pop artist FEWOCiOUS. See https://news.nike.com/news/nike-acquires-rtfkt.

44. 38. On or around January 18, 2022, Nike announced to its employees the

formation of Nike Virtual Studios, a new division that will operate as an independent studio to

further develop Nike’s business around virtual products and partner with its core business to

deliver best-in-class Web3, metaverse, and blockchain-based experiences.

45. 39. InOn February 7, 2022, Nike and RTFKT will release a number of virtual

products.released the MNLTH NFT collection by “airdropping” each NFT directly to the

then-current owners of RTFKT’s Clone X and PodX NFTs. The MNLTH NFT is depicted

below:

46. On April 22, 2022, Nike and RTFKT released the Nike Dunk Genesis

CryptoKicks™ NFTs, along with the Evo Skin Vial NFTs, which allow owners of the Nike

Dunk Genesis NFTs to customize the colorway of the digital shoes. Examples of the Nike Dunk

Genesis CryptoKicks™ and Evo Skin Vial NFTs are depicted below:

-18-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 20 of 77

47. 40. The Nike initiatives discussed above have been highly publicized, and, upon

the recent release of the successful RTFKT x Nike Dunk Genesis CryptoKicks™ NFTs reflects

Nike’s deep understanding of the NFT market. Upon information and belief, StockX has known

about Nike’s plans to expand into the NFT market long prior to its January 2022 “Vault NFT”

launch.

StockX’s Resale Platform

48. 41. StockX, like eBay, operates an online marketplace for the resale of sneakers,

streetwear, electronics, luxury handbags, and other collectibles accessible to consumers on the

StockX Website and StockX App. Upon information and belief, StockX does not sell goods

directly to consumers; rather, StockX’s users buy and sell goods from each other on StockX’s

platform. StockX is not an authorized distributor of Nike goods.

49. 42. Unlike the eBay model, however, StockX is an active intermediary for each

transaction—the seller ships the item to StockX, StockX receives and purportedly verifies the

item’s authenticity, StockX then ships the item to the buyer with a StockX-branded verification

badge, and StockX pays the seller (less its transaction fees). See

https://stockx.com/about/how-it-works/.

50. In fact, as StockX alleged in its Answer to Nike’s Complaint:

StockX uses a proprietary, multi-step authentication process for every product


sold on its platform. This process ensures that items traded on StockX
conform to the product descriptions and condition standards advertised by

-19-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 21 of 77

StockX, and that the products offered for sale are what they claim to be, and
are not counterfeit, defective, or used—meaning StockX’s customers can trust
that transactions made through StockX are safe. StockX has authenticated tens
of millions of products since its formation, combining its authentication team’s
expert knowledge with AI-enhanced technology to allow global customers to
trade with confidence.
(Answer at 2.)

51. StockX falsely and/or misleadingly claims on the StockX Website that every item

StockX sells on its e-commerce platform—including those items purportedly associated with the

Vault NFTs—has been independently verified by StockX as “100% Verified Authentic.”

Specifically, StockX states that “Every item sold goes through our proprietary multi-step

verification process with our team of expert authenticators.”

https://stockx.com/about/how-it-works/. According to StockX, its rigorous, multi-step

verification procedure uses “100+ data points,” and that its “authenticators are better equipped

than anyone to ensure a product’s authenticity.” https://stockx.com/about/authentication/.

StockX misleadingly claims that this “multi-step verification process” authenticating products is

somehow “proprietary,” despite the fact that StockX is not the entity that designed, created,

manufactured, packaged, or shipped in the first instance any genuine Nike goods, and despite the

fact that much of the process itself is openly displayed in a video found on StockX’s website.

StockX prominently advertises this guarantee of “100% Verified Authentic” and the value its

authentication services provide consumers throughout the StockX Website, as exemplified

below:

-20-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 22 of 77

52. On the StockX Website, StockX also advertises that it utilizes “Advanced

Technology” and “Quality Assurance” with respect to its authentication services and claims that

it employs quality assurance “experts” to ensure that only authentic goods are sold on its

platform:

53. StockX also claims that it has “compiled data from every fake product in the

history of StockX to build a comprehensive database of fake techniques around the world.” It

-21-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 23 of 77

also advertises an authentication accuracy rate of “99.95%” but does not explain how this

number is substantiated.

54. The confirmed purchase of counterfeit Nike goods on StockX’s

platform—including the same style purportedly associated with at least one of the infringing

Nike-branded Vault NFTs—confirms that StockX’s claims about its “proprietary multi-step

verification process,” “100% Verified Authentic,” and authentication accuracy rate of “99.95%”

are false and/or misleading.

55. 43. According to StockX’s most recent annual report, Nike’s brands and shoes

dominate StockX’s marketplace. For example, three of Nike’s brands—JORDAN, NIKE, and

CONVERSE—were the among the top five trading footwear brands by volume on StockX’s

marketplace in 2021:

-22-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 24 of 77

StockX’s Vault NFTs

56. 44. On January 18, 2022, StockX’s New York-based Editorial Director announced

the launch of StockX Vault NFTs, a collection of NFTs that StockX’s users purchase directly

from StockX through the StockX Website and StockX App. See

https://stockx.com/news/introducing-nfts-on-stockx/. StockX claims the Vault NFTs are

associated with a unique physical product held in StockX’s custody until the NFT owner

“redeems” the NFT in exchange for the associated physical product or some other benefit.

-23-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 25 of 77

57. 45. Unlike the physical goods StockX’s users may sell through its online resale

platform—which are manufactured and/or distributed in the first instance by Nike and other

brands or their authorized distributors—StockX’s Vault NFTs are virtual products, i.e., digital

collectibles, created and first offered for sale by StockX, and available direct to consumers for

purchase and trade on the StockX Website and StockX App.

58. StockX markets its Vault NFTs as exciting new product offerings. StockX

advertises to consumers that these “digital assets” can be traded or collected. StockX markets

the thrill of purchasing an NFT, not a “claim ticket” for goods available on its platform. For

example, StockX added a separate “NFT Portfolio” allowing owners of Vault NFTs to collect,

track, and display their NFTs.

59. StockX also modified its platform to allow consumers to shop for “NFTs” as a

new product “Category.” The NFT “Category” is separate from the categories of physical goods

that have been historically available for resale on StockX’s platform. Consumers can sort the

“NFTs” listed in the Category by “Release Date.” Those “release” dates correspond to the dates

that StockX first released each NFT, not the date that the original manufacturer first released any

purportedly associated physical product.

-24-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 26 of 77

-25-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 27 of 77

60. Upon purchase of a Vault NFT, the StockX Website confirms to the consumer

that they have bought an NFT (not a pair of physical shoes) by stating: “Congratulations, you

successfully bought StockX Nike Dunk Low Retro White Black (Vault NFT) on StockX. The

NFT has now been added to your StockX Portfolio” and allowing the consumer to “share” the

NFT purchase via e-mail or social media:

61. At the point of purchase StockX also e-mails the Vault NFT consumer

confirmation that they have purchased an NFT (not a pair of physical shoes) by exclaiming in

large, bold font at the top of the e-mail: “You Bought an NFT!” The e-mail further states to the

consumer: “Congratulations! Your bid has been accepted. The NFT transfer can take a few

minutes. When the transfer is complete, your NFT will be available in your StockX Portfolio.”

-26-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 28 of 77

62. Nowhere on the StockX Order Confirmation Webpage or StockX Order

Confirmation e-mail does StockX expressly state that the consumer purchased a physical item

instead of an NFT. StockX does not inform the consumer that it bought a “claim ticket” linked

to an underlying physical item. StockX does not state: “Congratulations, you just bought a pair

of Nike or Jordan shoes.” Instead, StockX congratulates the consumer on purchasing an NFT

because the NFT is the product that the consumer purchased.

63. 46. Thus far, StockX has sold Nike-branded Vault NFTs at prices many multiples

above the price of the physical Nike shoe. For example, the 2022 version of the Nike Dunk Low

– Retro White Black (i.e., the physical pair of shoes) will retail for $100 from nike.com:

-27-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 29 of 77

According to StockX’s marketplace, as of February 2, 2022, the average sale price for the 2021

version of the shoes is $282:

-28-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 30 of 77

-29-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 31 of 77

Yet, as of February 2, 2022, the average price of the Vault NFT purportedly linked to these shoes

is $809, with the highest trade being $3500:

-30-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 32 of 77

-31-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 33 of 77

64. 47. Another example is the sacai x KAWS Blazer Low Neptune Blue size 10 M

which retails for $140 from nike.com:

According to StockX’s marketplace, as of February 2, 2022, the average sale price for the shoes

is $205:

-32-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 34 of 77

-33-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 35 of 77

As of February 2, 2022, the average price, however, of the Vault NFT purportedly linked to these

shoes is $590, with the highest trade being $3995:

-34-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 36 of 77

-35-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 37 of 77

65. These significant price discrepancies continue, and as of the current date certain

Nike-branded Vault NFTs are still selling for thousands of dollars above the price of the physical

shoe.

66. 48. As of the date Nike filed this action, StockX statesstated that the Vault NFTs

are minted on the Ethereum blockchain, “offering owners the opportunity to invest in current

culture, with cross-platform liquidity on the horizon.” See https://stockx.com/lp/nfts/. As of the

date Nike filed this action, StockX also statesstated that Vault NFT owners may be granted

exclusive access to StockX benefits, promotions, experiences, and rewards. Id.

67. 49. As of the date Nike filed this action, StockX further statesstated that NFT

owners may redeem the token to have the shoes delivered at any time. SimultaneouslyBut, as

shown below, StockX statesalso simultaneously stated that the “redemption process is not

currently available,” but may be sometime in the “near future.” See

https://stockx.com/help/articles/How-do-I-withdraw-my-item-from-the-Vault. If and when this

process becomes available, upon

Upon redemption, StockX states that it will remove the shoes from the vault, charge “a $35

withdrawal fee, a $14 shipping fee, and any applicable sales tax” on top of the price the owner

-36-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 38 of 77

paid for the Vault NFT, and ship them to the owner. See

https://stockx.com/help/articles/What-are-Vault-NFTs;

https://stockx.com/help/articles/How-do-I-withdraw-my-item-from-the-Vault; and

https://stockx.com/help/articles/What-fees-are-associated-with-Vault-NFTs. StockX will then

remove the Vault NFT from circulation by deleting it from the owner’s portfolio (i.e., StockX

will “burn” the Vault NFT). See, e.g., https://stockx.com/retro-black-and-white-dunk-vault-nft.

68. 50. StockX’s Terms and Conditions include, as of the date Nike filed this action,

included sections titled “Vault Terms” and “NFT Terms” (collectively, the “Vault NFT Terms”)

which govern the Vault NFT offerings. See https://stockx.com/terms.

69. 51. According to the Vault NFT Terms in place as of the date Nike filed this

action, when a consumer purchases a Vault NFT, the consumer gains title to both the purchased

Vault NFT (i.e., the digital collectible) and the Stored Item (i.e., the physical goods) to which the

NFT corresponds, and the consumer automatically makes use of StockX’s Vault Services (i.e.,

storage of the physical goods in StockX’s facility). Id.

70. 52. TheAs of the date Nike filed this action, the Vault NFT Terms also statestated

that (i) a Vault NFT (i.e., the digital collectible) has no value beyond that of the associated

Stored Item (i.e., the physical goods), and (ii) the Vault Services are currently provided by

StockX at no additional cost; however, a Vault NFT owner may be required to pay additional

fees if they elect to have a Stored Item shipped to them or if they use the Vault Services past

January 31, 2023. Id.

53. By purchasing a Vault NFT, owners agree that they will not attempt to sell the

physical goods to a buyer other than by selling the associated Vault NFT via the StockX

platform. Id.

-37-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 39 of 77

71. 54. Notably, under the Vault NFT Terms in place from launch through at least the

date Nike filed this action, StockX also retainsretained the right to unilaterally redeem a Vault

NFT for a so-called “Experiential Component,” and cancel or take away the NFT, i.e., the Vault

NFT owner never receives the physical version of the shoes or loses the opportunity to do so.

Specifically, the Vault NFT Terms statestated, “Note that in some cases, per the applicable

Additional NFT Terms, StockX may automatically redeem your NFT for an Experiential

Component,2 at its sole discretion, in which case StockX may remove the NFT from your

portfolio and you will cease to own the NFT.” See https://stockx.com/terms:

72. 55. Upon information and belief, the provision in Paragraph 5270 stating that the

Vault NFT has no value apart from the physical shoes directly conflictsconflicted with the terms

described in Paragraph 5471 above: because StockX retainsretained the right to redeem the Vault

NFT for an Experiential Component, the Vault NFT does, in fact, have value apart from the

physical shoes. The provision likewise directly conflictsconflicted with StockX’s other previous

statement that the Vault NFT includes additional benefits beyond the physical shoes, such as

“exclusive access to StockX releases, promotions, events, as a result of ownership.” See

https://stockx.com/lp/nfts/.

2
TheAs of the date Nike filed this action, the phrase “Experiential Component” iswas explained
and defined under the Vault NFT Terms as follows: “NFTs may take a variety of forms, and the
holders of NFTs may be entitled to obtain certain products, benefits or engage in certain
experiences, such as unlocking a prize or entry into an exclusive sale (“Experiential
Component”), as determined by StockX in its sole discretion, subject to any additional terms
provided by StockX with or in connection with the purchase of such NFT (“Additional NFT
Terms”).” See https://stockx.com/terms.

-38-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 40 of 77

73. Since Nike filed this action and, upon information and belief, after StockX

already sold off and provided a platform for the resale of all the infringing Nike-branded NFTs,

StockX repeatedly revised these terms and statements. For example, from January 18, 2022

through at least April 25, 2022, StockX included the following statements on its NFT landing

page, currently located at https://stockx.com/lp/nfts/, which Nike pointed out to the Court in a

statement filed on March 31, 2022 [Dkt. No. 23]:

At some point on or around April 25, 2022, StockX removed this language, replacing it with

statements that attempt to align with its defensive theme:

-39-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 41 of 77

74. None of StockX’s trivial, post-hoc changes have resolved its ongoing

infringement and dilution of Nike’s trademarks, and what StockX has opted not to change speaks

volumes: to date, StockX has not removed or in any way modified the prominent use and display

of Nike’s marks from the infringing Nike-branded Vault NFTs.

75. 56. As of February 2, 2022, StockX’s Vault NFT collection comprisescomprised

nine NFTs, as shown below. Eight of the nine prominently display Nike’s marks and are

associated with Nike products. Upon information and belief, StockX almost exclusively used

Nike’s marks to launch its Vault NFTs because it knew that doing so would garner attention,

drive sales, and confuse consumers into believing that Nike collaborated with StockX on the

Vault NFTs.

-40-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 42 of 77

76. 57. To date, upon information and belief, StockX has sold 558 individual

Nike-branded Vault NFTs. Some of the infringing Nike-branded Vault NFTs associated with

Nike products are editions of 1, others are editions of 100, and some are as many as editions of

250. Upon information and belief, StockX has also minted—but not yet sold—at least another

2,000 infringing Nike-branded Vault NFTs purportedly linked to Nike’s Air Jordan 11 Retro

Cool Grey shoes. Given that StockX is not an authorized Nike retailer, to the extent all

-41-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 43 of 77

corresponding physical Nike shoes exist at StockX’s “vault” facility, it is not clear where or how

StockX acquired that many pairs of “100% Authentic” Nike shoes.

77. 58. On the StockX product pages for its Vault NFTs, as shown below as of the

date Nike filed its action, StockX prominently displaysdisplayed Nike’s word marks in large,

bold text at the top of the page, and couples Nike’s marks with its own “Vault NFT” designation

in parentheticals in the same large, bold text.

78. 59. StockX also toutstouted each Vault NFTsNFT as “100% Authentic,” which,

upon information and belief, is intended to explicitly mislead consumers that Nike has

authorized, approved, sponsored, and/or endorsed StockX’s Vault NFTs.

-42-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 44 of 77

79. Further down the StockX product page for each Vault NFT as of the date Nike

filed this action, StockX providesprovided “Product Details,” which includesincluded a “Product

Description,” that also uses Nike’s marks. For example, StockX’s description for the Nike Dunk

Low Retro White Black (Vault NFT) opens with: “One of the most popular Nike Dunks of 2021

is now a part of StockX’s Vault NFT experience.”

60. If a consumer clicks on the “Read More” button, additional text appears, including “The Fine

Print,” which states: “If the physical item associated with this Vault NFT is redeemed by the

-43-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 45 of 77

owner, it is removed from the StockX Vault and shipped to the owner. StockX will then remove

the Vault NFT from the owner’s Portfolio and from circulation (i.e., ‘burn’ the Vault NFT).”

80. 61. As shown above, each of the eight Nike-branded Vault NFT’s is comprised of

Nike marks, including the only prominent eye-catching feature, a vivid image of a bespoke Nike

shoe. To the extent that the Vault NFT is merely supposed to function as a “digital receipt” for a

physical Nike shoe, there is no legitimate reason for StockX to prominently feature Nike’s

trademarks on the Vault NFT and the StockX product page. Indeed, when a consumer purchases

Nike shoes from the StockX marketplace, the consumer receives a paper receipt from StockX in

the package. Unlike a Vault NFT, upon information and belief, this paper receipt prominently

uses StockX’s own mark and only uses the Nike name in connection with the purchased shoe, yet

somehow still manages to function as a receipt for that Nike shoe:

-44-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 46 of 77

81. 62. In addition to the vivid image of the Nike shoe each Vault NFT purports to

represent, the StockX product page for each Vault NFT, as of the date Nike filed this action, also

displaysdisplayed a second image, the “back” of the Vault NFT, as shown below:

82. 63. As of February 3, 2022, StockX statesstated, in large font, “How It Works,”

with four bolded bullet points explaining, in simple terms, what users can do with a Vault NFT.

-45-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 47 of 77

Below the four bullet points, in comically and intentionally small, difficult-to-read font, StockX

also statesstated: “The purpose of the NFT is solely to track the ownership of and transactions in

connection with the associated product. The NFT does not independently authenticate the

associated product, nor is it affiliated or associated with, sponsored by, or officially connected to

Nike or any of its subsidiaries or affiliates. For more information on official Nike products,

please visit Nike.com.” Putting aside the ineffectiveness of this tiny disclaimer, and the

additional small print disclaimers added since this action was filed the “does not independently

authenticate” language appears to conflict with the “100% Authentic” on the product page.

83. 64. Upon information and belief, recognizing the tremendous value of the Nike

brand to consumers, StockX is also using Nike’s trademarks and images of Nike’s products to

promote its Vault NFTs on the StockX Website, StockX App, and on StockX’s social media

accounts. For example, as of the date Nike filed this action, StockX promotespromoted its Vault

NFTs on its website with the following images incorporating Nike’s products and trademarks:

-46-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 48 of 77

84. 65. StockX iswas also using Nike’s trademarks and images of Nike’s products on

paid Google Ads to promote its Vault NFTs:

-47-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 49 of 77

85. 66. As of February 2, 2022the present date, StockX’s Twitter account

displaysdisplayed a banner image depicting two Nike shoes, which appears to be the same image

used by StockX to promote the Vault NFTs on its website, as shown above:

86. 67. On January 18, 2022, to promote the launch of its Vault NFTs, StockX posted

to its Instagram account a series of images depicting Nike’s trademarks and products, including

the two shown below:

-48-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 50 of 77

87. 68. The full caption of the above Instagram post states: “NFTs are on StockX.

Introducing #StockXVault: a digital NFT that’s backed by a physical product and stored in a

StockX facility. This is just the beginning of our web3 future. Available for trading now. Links

to purchase in Product Tags and Stories. Welcome to the future of culture. Learn more at the

link in bio.”

88. 69. On January 26, 2022, StockX again promoted its Vault NFTs by posting to its

Instagram account a pair of images depicting Nike’s trademarks and product, including the one

shown below:

-49-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 51 of 77

89. 70. The full caption of the above Instagram post states: “A new #StockXVault

arrival: The Jordan 1 High Patent Bred. Limited to 250 editions, each size 10, and available for

trading immediately. Links to purchase in the Product Tags and Stories. Tap fast to add to your

portfolio.”

90. 71. Also on January 26, 2022, StockX tweeted a promotional video for the Jordan

1 Retro High OG Patent Bred Vault NFT:

-50-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 52 of 77

91. 72. As shown above, as of the date Nike filed this action, StockX iswas using

Nike’s trademarks to market, promote, and attract potential purchasers to its Vault NFTs.

StockX’s use of Nike’s marks is, upon information and belief, intentionally deceiving consumers

into believing that Nike sponsors or approves of the Vault NFTs.

92. 73. StockX’s Vault NFTs are not Nike products. There is no collaboration

between Nike and StockX, Nike did not provide a license to StockX to use its trademarks in

connection with the Vault NFTs, Nike did not create or inspect the Vault NFTs or authorize the

confusing and misleading Vault NFT Terms, and Nike did not authorize StockX to make,

promote, advertise, market, or sell the Vault NFTs.

93. 74. While StockX represents that the Vault NFTs are “backed by” and confer title

to genuine Nike products, StockX has bundledmarketed them as bundled with additional digital

goods, services, and unspecified benefits in such a manner that the Vault NFTs constitute new,

-51-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 53 of 77

unauthorized products created, marketed, offered for sale, and sold by StockX, exclusively on the

StockX Website and StockX App.

94. 75. Despite StockX’s prominent use of Nike’s trademarks and products in

connection with the Vault NFTs, Nike has no control over the quality of the Vault NFTs

whatsoever. Nike has no say in how many Vault NFTs bearing its trademarks are released,

where the Vault NFTs are released and traded, when the Vault NFTs are released, how the Vault

NFTs are released, traded, or redeemed, and at what price the Vault NFTs are sold and traded.

95. 76. As noted in Paragraphs 46-47 63-65 above, the Vault NFTs are presently

trading for inflated prices that are multiples higher than both the original retail price of the shoes

and the current resale price on the secondary market.

96. 77. The Vault NFTs’ inflated prices and murky terms of purchase and ownership

have already led to public criticism of StockX and allegations that the Vault NFTs are a scam.

For example, on January 19, 2022, Input Magazine published an article on its website entitled

“StockX’s ‘sneaker’ NFTs are kind of a scam hidden in plain sight.” The article’s author, Ian

Servantes, highlights the Vault NFT Terms that suggest the benefits of Vault NFT ownership

may be entirely illusory:

Owner’s [sic] of StockX’s limited series of sneaker NFTs will be


given exclusive access to the company’s releases, promotions, and
events, according to the announcement page. But if you dig further
into the term’s [sic] of service, as Sole Retriever did, you’ll find
that StockX has been given license to redeem your NFT for an
‘experiential component’ and even take away your ownership of
the NFT as a result of the transaction.

The initial offering for StockX’s NFTs have already sold out, so
let’s say you decide to engage in a secondary purchase for an NFT.
You purchase, say, the NFT for the Nike x Ben & Jerry’s “Chunky
Dunky,” which has an ask of $100,000 and a highest bid of $3,000.
Now that it’s yours you don’t get the actual sneaker, and at some

-52-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 54 of 77

point StockX can come in say, Here’s access to an early sale or a


discount, and by the way, that NFT is no longer yours.

Even in a field as fishy NFTs, StockX’s proposition smells like


one of the most obvious grifts you’re likely to see. In a bid to stand
out as different as NFTs, StockX has instead made tokens that
make it even more clear that you’re the mark.

See

https://www.inputmag.com/style/stockx-vault-nfts-sneakers-shoes-nike-off-white-

dunk-adidas-bad-bunny.

97. 78. The above impression of StockX’s Vault NFTs demonstrates that they have

been received by potential purchasers with suspicion and doubts about the integrity and

trustworthiness of StockX’s NFT business model. This example also shows that StockX’s

prominent use of Nike’s trademarks and products in connection with the Vault NFTs has already

generated negative associations with Nike’s trademarks and products that harm Nike’s business

reputation and the goodwill associated with its trademarks, in which Nike has invested immense

resources to develop over the past five decades.

98. 79. Upon information and belief, StockX has attempted to capitalize on Nike’s

valuable reputation and goodwill by using Nike’s Asserted Marks and/or confusingly similar

marks in a manner that is likely to cause consumers to believe that StockX’s Vault NFTs are

associated with Nike, when they are not. Indeed, as noted in Paragraph 6180 above, if StockX

merely intended to use NFTs as digital receipts as it claims, there would be no need to make such

extensive and prominent use of Nike’s trademarks. Upon information and belief, this prominent

use of Nike’s marks was intended to free ride on Nike’s immense goodwill and satisfy consumer

desire to own Nike-branded virtual goods, which owners can display in their portfolios.

-53-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 55 of 77

99. 80. StockX’s use of Nike’s trademarks and images of Nike’s products to promote

its Vault NFTs has already created confusion in the marketplace as to the Vault NFTs’ source

and whether Nike is in any way involved or associated with StockX’s Vault NFTs. For example,

immediately after StockX announced the Vault NFTs’ release, on January 18, 2022, users on

social media questioned the propriety of StockX’s Vault NFTs and whether Nike is “in on it

too,” while others “feel safe assuming Nike gets a cut of the fees that StockX takes from each

transaction.”

-54-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 56 of 77

100. 81. Consumer confusion as to whether Nike is associated with StockX’s Vault

NFTs was also immediately evident on Twitter, where, on January 18, 2022, a user replied to a

StockX tweet promoting the launch of its Vault NFTs, asking whether the Vault NFTS are

“endorsed/approved by Nike/Adidas etc?”:

101. 82. The following day, January 19, 2022, Reddit users on another thread under the

r/Sneakers subreddit wondered whether Nike had granted StockX a license to use Nike’s

“branding”:

-55-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 57 of 77

102. 83. On that same day, January 19, 2022, and same thread under the r/Sneakers

subreddit, another confused user expressed their (incorrect) belief that “Nike gets a small

commission every time an NFT is purchased,” and that StockX’s Vault NFTs are “a way for

Nike to get a piece of the huge pie of the resale market” while not bringing any added benefit to

the buyer:

103. 84. Additionally, on January 21, 2022, in response to a video posted earlier that

same day discussing StockX’s Vault NFTs, one confused TikTok user commented: “You can

just cash out of the nft for the actual shoe but I think it’s just a stupid scam for Nike to make

money.”

-56-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 58 of 77

104. Since the filing of this action, confusion has continued. In fact, once Nike began

sales of its own Nike-branded NFTs, the public has conflated the parties’ offerings. For

example, in an article republished multiple times since May 2, 2022 titled “Nike Takes A Major

Step Into The Metaverse,” the author incorrectly reports that the Nike/RTFKT Cryptokicks™

“makes its debut on StockX”:

The article goes on to report:

-57-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 59 of 77

See https://www.zenger.news/2022/05/02/nike-takes-a-major-step-into-the-metaverse/.

105. But Nike’s Dunk Genesis Cryptokicks™ NFTs did not debut on StockX, and

users of StockX’s platform cannot buy NFTs supported by Nike. This was precisely the sort of

confusion that Nike feared would ensue when it filed this action and began releasing genuine

NFTs.

StockX’s Counterfeit Sales and Claims of Authenticity

106. In addition to the infringing and dilutive conduct related to the Vault NFTs,

Nike’s continuing investigation into StockX’s conduct has also revealed that StockX has been

and is currently dealing in counterfeit Nike goods.

107. Between December 2021 and January 2022, Nike obtained from StockX’s

platform at least four pairs of counterfeit Nike shoes. Since the filing of this action, Nike has

confirmed that these four pairs of shoes are, in fact, counterfeit. As noted above, one of the

confirmed pairs of counterfeit Nike shoes is a counterfeit Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG in the

Black/Varsity Red-White colorway—the exact same style that StockX has purportedly linked to

one of its eight infringing Nike-branded Vault NFTs:

-58-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 60 of 77

108. In fact, as of the current date, StockX has sold 518 infringing Nike-branded Vault

NFTs that are purportedly linked to the same Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG in the Black/Varsity

Red-White colorway, making it StockX’s top-selling NFT by total volume sold:

109. Nike’s discovery of StockX’s recent dealing in counterfeit Nike goods is

consistent with numerous publicly available consumer complaints that Nike shoes guaranteed as

-59-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 61 of 77

“100% Verified Authentic” by StockX turned out to be counterfeit, including complaints

directed to StockX on its social media channels. Nike’s investigation remains ongoing and, upon

information and belief, StockX is selling and will continue to sell counterfeit Nike goods to

unsuspecting consumers.

110. StockX claims on the StockX Website that every item StockX sells on its

e-commerce platform—including those items purportedly associated with the Vault NFTs—has

been independently verified by StockX as “100% Verified Authentic.” The confirmed purchase

of counterfeit Nike goods on StockX’s platform—including the same style purportedly

associated with at least one of the infringing Nike-branded Vault NFTs—directly undermines

StockX’s “100% Verified Authentic” claims and its claims about the “proprietary multi-step

verification process” it employs to authenticate goods and renders these statements false and/or

misleading.

111. StockX’s “100% Verified Authentic” claims and its claims about the “proprietary

multi-step verification process” it employs to authenticate goods sold on its e-commerce

platform are material because StockX is misrepresenting an inherent quality or characteristic of

the Nike goods sold on its platform, i.e., that they are not counterfeit and have been authenticated

as genuine. Moreover, StockX’s claims are likely to influence consumer purchasing decisions

because consumers shopping for real Nike goods are more likely to purchase from StockX than

other channels based on StockX’s prominent claims about the authenticity of the Nike goods for

sale on its platform and based on its statements that its authentication process is proprietary, that

StockX authenticators are “better equipped than anyone” to confirm the authenticity of a product.

-60-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 62 of 77

112. On information and belief, an unknown number of consumers have been deceived

by and purchased counterfeit Nike goods or Nike-branded Vault NFTs based on StockX’s false

and/or misleading statements about the authenticity of the Nike goods for sale on its platform.

113. On information and belief, StockX knows that its false and/or misleading

statements about the authenticity of the Nike goods for sale on its platform deceives consumers.

Nevertheless, StockX continues to engage in such improper and unlawful business practices to

attract consumers to its platform and induce consumers to purchase supposedly genuine Nike

goods and purchase and trade the infringing Nike-branded Vault NFTs.

114. The continued sale of counterfeit Nike goods on StockX’s platform and StockX’s

false and/or misleading claims about its authentication process and verified authenticity have

caused and are causing Nike injury as a result of, inter alia, harm to reputation, diverted sales,

consumer confusion, dilution, and tarnishment of its valuable trademarks.

115. 85. By virtue of the acts complained of herein, StockX has created a likelihood of

injury to Nike’s business reputation and goodwill, caused a likelihood of consumer confusion,

mistake, and deception as to the source of origin or relationship of Nike’s products and StockX’s

Vault NFTs, and has otherwise competed unfairly by unlawfully dealing in counterfeit Nike

goods, making false and/or misleading statements, and trading on and using Nike’s Asserted

Marks without Nike’s permission.

116. 86. Unless stopped, StockX’s Vault NFTs and, StockX’s use of Nike’s Asserted

Marks, StockX’s dealing in counterfeit Nike goods, and StockX’s false and/or misleading

statements will continue to confuse consumers in the marketplace and dilute Nike’s famous

marks by blurring and tarnishment.

-61-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 63 of 77

117. 87. As noted above in Paragraph 56 above, StockX has already announced its

plans to expand its Vault NFT business, which will likely include additional uses of Nike’s

famous trademarks and products. In addition to StockX’s announcement referenced above,

StockX confirmed its plans to release additional Vault NFTs on Twitter:

88. This imminent expansion of StockX’s Vault NFT business exacerbates the harm Nike

has suffered and will continue to suffer as a consequence of StockX’s unauthorized use of its

trademarks.

118. Indeed, since this action was filed, Nike discovered that StockX has also

minted—but not yet sold—at least another 2,000 infringing Nike-branded Vault NFTs

purportedly linked to Nike’s Air Jordan 11 Retro Cool Grey shoes.

119. 89. StockX’s acts complained of herein are willful and deliberate.

120. 90. StockX’s acts complained of herein have caused damage to Nike in an amount

to be determined at trial, and such damages will continue to increase unless StockX is

preliminarily and permanently enjoined from their wrongful acts.

121. 91. StockX’s acts complained of herein have caused Nike to suffer irreparable

injury to its business. PlaintiffNike will suffer substantial loss of goodwill and reputation unless

and until StockX is permanently enjoined from the wrongful acts complained of herein.

FIRST CAUSE OF ACTION

-62-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 64 of 77

TRADEMARK INFRINGEMENT
15 U.S.C. § 1114

122. 92. Nike repeats and realleges each and every allegation in the foregoing

Paragraphs 1 to 91121 as if fully set forth herein.

123. 93. Nike’s Asserted Marks are on the Principal Register of the United States

Patent and Trademark Office.

124. 94. Through extensive and continuous use, Nike’s Asserted Marks and the

goodwill of the businesses associated with them in the United States and throughout the world

are of significant value, are highly distinctive and arbitrary or fanciful, and have become

universally associated in the public mind with Nike, its products and services, and the very

highest quality and reputation.

125. 95. StockX has knowingly used and continues to use in commerce, without

Nike’s permission or authorization, Nike’s Asserted Marks, and/or confusingly similar marks, in

connection with the sale, distribution, and advertising of its Vault NFTs.

126. 96. StockX’s conduct is intended to exploit the goodwill and reputation associated

with Nike’s Asserted Marks.

127. 97. StockX’s use of Nike’s Asserted Marks is likely to confuse, mislead, or

deceive potential consumers, purchasers, and the general purchasing public as to the source,

origin, sponsorship, or affiliation of the Vault NFTs with Nike, and is likely to cause such people

to erroneously believe that StockX’s Vault NFTs have been authorized, sponsored, approved,

endorsed, or licensed by Nike or that StockX is in some way affiliated with Nike.

128. 98. StockX’s unauthorized use of Nike’s Asserted Marks constitutes trademark

infringement of Nike’s federally registered trademarks, which has caused damage to Nike and

-63-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 65 of 77

the substantial business and good will embodied in Nike’s trademarks in violation of Section 32

of the Lanham Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1114.

129. 99. As a direct and proximate result of StockX’s wrongful acts, Nike has suffered,

continues to suffer, and/or is likely to suffer damage to its trademarks, business reputation, and

good will that money cannot compensate. Unless enjoined, StockX will continue to use Nike’s

Asserted Marks and/or confusingly similar marks and will cause irreparable damage to Nike,

Nike’s Asserted Marks, and to the business and good will represented thereby, for which Nike

has no adequate remedy at law.

130. 100. Nike is further entitled to recover from StockX the actual damages Nike has

sustained, is sustaining, and/or is likely to sustain as a result of StockX’s wrongful acts.

131. 101. Upon information and belief, StockX has obtained gains, profits, and

advantages as a result of its wrongful acts and will continue to do so in an amount yet to be

determined.

132. 102. StockX’s use of Nike’s Asserted Marks and/or confusingly similar marks has

been intentional and willful. StockX’s bad faith is evidenced, in part, by the egregious and

prominent use of Nike’s Asserted Marks in connection with the sale and promotion of the Vault

NFTs, and the extensive nature of the infringement. Because of the willful nature of StockX’s

wrongful acts, Nike is entitled to an award of treble damages and increased profits under 15

U.S.C. § 1117.

133. 103. Because this is an exceptional case, Nike is also entitled to recover its costs

of suit and its attorneys’ fees pursuant to 15 U.S.C. § 1117.

SECOND CAUSE OF ACTION


FALSE DESIGNATION OF ORIGIN / UNFAIR COMPETITION
15 U.S.C. § 1125(a)

-64-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 66 of 77

134. 104. Nike repeats and realleges each and every allegation in the foregoing

Paragraphs 1 to 91121 as if fully set forth herein.

135. 105. StockX’s unauthorized use of Nike’s Asserted Marks and/or confusingly

similar marks constitutes a false designation of origin that is likely to cause consumer confusion,

mistake, or deception as to the origin, sponsorship, or approval of StockX’s Vault NFTs by

creating the false and/or misleading impression StockX’s Vault NFTs are produced by,

authorized by, or otherwise associated with Nike.

136. 106. As a direct and proximate result of StockX’s wrongful acts, Nike has

suffered, continues to suffer, and/or is likely to suffer damage to its trademarks, business

reputation, and good will that money cannot compensate. Unless enjoined, StockX will continue

to use Nike’s Asserted Marks and/or confusingly similar marks and will cause irreparable

damage to Nike, Nike’s Asserted Marks, and to the business and good will represented thereby,

for which Nike has no adequate remedy at law.

137. 107. Nike is further entitled to recover from StockX the actual damages Nike has

sustained, is sustaining, and/or is likely to sustain as a result of StockX’s wrongful acts.

138. 108. StockX’s use of Nike’s Asserted Marks and/or confusingly similar marks has

been intentional and willful. StockX’s bad faith is evidenced, in part, by the egregious and

prominent use of Nike’s Asserted Marks in connection with the sale and promotion of the Vault

NFTs, and the extensive nature of the infringement. Because of the willful nature of StockX’s

wrongful acts, Nike is entitled to an award of treble damages and increased profits under 15

U.S.C. § 1117.

139. 109. Because this is an exceptional case, Nike is also entitled to recover its costs

of suit and its attorneys’ fees pursuant to 15 U.S.C. § 1117.

-65-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 67 of 77

THIRD CAUSE OF ACTION


TRADEMARK DILUTION
15 U.S.C. § 1125(c)

140. 110. Nike repeats and realleges each and every allegation in the foregoing

Paragraphs 1 to 91121 as if fully set forth herein.

141. 111. As a result of the duration, extent, and geographical reach of advertising and

publicity, the amount, volume, and geographical extent of Nike’s sales and trading areas, their

channels of trade, their degree of recognition, and registration, Nike’s Asserted Marks have

become distinctive and “famous” within the meaning of Section 43(c) of the Lanham Act, 15

U.S.C. § 1125(c).

142. 112. Nike’s Asserted Marks have become distinctive and famous prior to

StockX’s acts as alleged herein.

143. 113. StockX’s unauthorized and wrongful use of Nike’s Asserted Marks in

commerce has diluted and will, unless enjoined, continue to dilute, and is likely to dilute the

distinctive quality of Nike’s Asserted Marks, in violation of Nike’s rights under 15 U.S.C. §

1125(c)

144. 114. StockX’s unauthorized and wrongful use of Nike’s Asserted Marks in

commerce has tarnished and will, unless enjoined, continue to tarnish, and is likely to tarnish the

fame of Nike’s Asserted Marks by undermining and damaging the valuable good will associated

therewith, in violation of Nike’s rights under 15 U.S.C. § 1125(c).

145. 115. StockX’s acts as alleged herein are intentional and willful in violation of

Section 43(c) of the Lanham Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1125(c), and have already caused Nike irreparable

damage and will, unless enjoined, continue to so damage Nike, which has no adequate remedy at

law.

-66-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 68 of 77

146. 116. Nike is further entitled to recover from StockX the actual damages Nike has

sustained, is sustaining, and/or is likely to sustain as a result of StockX’s wrongful acts.

147. 117. Upon information and belief, StockX has obtained gains, profits, and

advantages as a result of its wrongful acts and will continue to do so in an amount yet to be

determined.

148. 118. StockX’s use of Nike’s Asserted Marks and/or confusingly similar marks has

been intentional and willful. StockX’s bad faith is evidenced, in part, by the egregious and

prominent use of Nike’s Asserted Marks in connection with the sale and promotion of the Vault

NFTs, and the extensive nature of the infringement. Because of the willful nature of StockX’s

wrongful acts, Nike is entitled to an award of treble damages and increased profits under 15

U.S.C. § 1117.

149. 119. Because this is an exceptional case, Nike is also entitled to recover its costs

of suit and its attorneys’ fees pursuant to 15 U.S.C. § 1117.

FOURTH CAUSE OF ACTION


INJURY TO BUSINESS REPUTATION AND DILUTION
NEW YORK GENERAL BUSINESS LAW § 360-1

150. 120. Nike repeats and realleges each and every allegation in the foregoing

Paragraphs 1 to 91121 as if fully set forth herein.

151. 121. Nike, on behalf of itself and the general consuming public, seek recovery

from StockX for violation of New York’s Anti-Dilution Statute, N.Y. Gen. Bus. Law § 360-1, et

seq.

152. 122. Nike’s Asserted Marks are commercially and conceptually strong

trademarks, which have become distinctive and acquired a secondary meaning capable of

dilution.

-67-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 69 of 77

153. 123. Nike’s Asserted Marks have become distinctive and acquired a secondary

meaning capable of dilution prior to StockX’s acts as alleged herein.

154. 124. StockX’s unauthorized and wrongful use of Nike’s Asserted Marks has

diluted and will, unless enjoined, continue to dilute, and is likely to dilute the distinctive quality

of Nike’s Asserted Marks, thereby diminishing the capacity of Nike’s Asserted Marks to

function as unique product identifiers for Nike’s goods and services.

155. 125. StockX’s unauthorized and wrongful use of Nike’s Asserted Marks has

tarnished and will, unless enjoined, continue to tarnish, and is likely to tarnish Nike’s Asserted

Marks by creating negative associations with Nike, its Asserted Marks, and the associated

business reputation and good will.

156. 126. StockX’s acts as alleged herein are intentional and willful in violation of

New York’s Anti-Dilution Statute, N.Y. Gen. Bus. Law § 360-1, et seq., and have already caused

Nike irreparable damage and will, unless enjoined, continue to so damage Nike, which has no

adequate remedy at law.

FIFTH CAUSE OF ACTION


COMMON LAW TRADEMARK INFRINGEMENT
AND UNFAIR COMPETITION

157. 127. Nike repeats and realleges each and every allegation in the foregoing

Paragraphs 1 to 91121 as if fully set forth herein.

158. 128. Through its prior and continuous use of its Asserted Marks in commerce,

Nike’s Asserted Marks have become widely known, and Nike has been identified in the public

mind as the manufacturer of the products to which the Nike Asserted Marks are applied.

159. 129. Through its prior and continuous use of its Asserted Marks in commerce,

Nike enjoys exclusive common law rights in the Asserted Marks.

-68-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 70 of 77

160. 130. StockX’s use of Nike’s Asserted Marks is without any permission, license or

other authorization from Nike.

161. 131. StockX, with knowledge and intentional disregard of Nike’s rights, continues

to advertise, promote, and sell Vault NFTs using Nike’s Asserted Marks and/or confusingly

similar marks. StockX’s acts have caused, continue to cause, and/or are likely to cause confusion

as to the source and/or sponsorship of the Vault NFTs.

162. 132. StockX’s acts as alleged herein constitute common law trademark

infringement, and have already caused Nike irreparable damage and will, unless enjoined,

continue to so damage Nike, which has no adequate remedy at law.

163. 133. Upon information and belief, StockX committed the acts alleged herein

knowingly, willfully, wantonly, oppressively, fraudulently, maliciously, and in conscious

disregard of Nike’s rights, thereby entitling Nike to exemplary and punitive damages pursuant to

the common law of the State of New York in an amount sufficient to punish, deter, and make an

example of StockX.

SIXTH CAUSE OF ACTION


COUNTERFEITING
15 U.S.C. § 1114

164. Nike repeats and realleges each and every allegation in the foregoing Paragraphs 1

to 121 as if fully set forth herein

165. Nike’s Asserted Marks are on the Principal Register of the United States Patent

and Trademark Office.

166. Through extensive and continuous use, Nike’s Asserted Marks and the goodwill

of the businesses associated with them in the United States and throughout the world are of

significant value, are highly distinctive and arbitrary or fanciful, and have become universally

-69-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 71 of 77

associated in the public mind with Nike, its products and services, and the very highest quality

and reputation.

167. StockX is acquiring, offering for sale, selling and shipping directly to consumers

shoes bearing counterfeits of the following Nike federally registered trademarks: Reg. No.

1,370,283 (AIR JORDAN word mark); Reg. No. 3,725,535 (Air Jordan & Wings Design mark);

Reg. No. 3,627,820 (JUMPMAN word mark); Reg. No. 1,558,100 (JumpMan Design mark);

Reg. No. 978,952 (NIKE word mark); Reg. No. 1,214,930 (NIKE word mark); Reg. No. 977,190

(Swoosh Design mark); Reg. No. 1,323,343 (Swoosh Design mark); and Reg. No. 1,325,938

(NIKE & Swoosh Design mark).

168. StockX’s counterfeiting activities are likely to cause and actually are causing

confusion, mistake, and deception among the general consuming public as to the quality of

Nike’s authentic shoes. StockX’s unlawful acts are intended to reap the benefit of the immense

goodwill that Nike has created in its goods and constitute counterfeiting of the following Nike

federally registered trademarks in violation of § 32(1) of the Lanham Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1114(1):

Reg. No. 1,370,283 (AIR JORDAN word mark); Reg. No. 3,725,535 (Air Jordan & Wings

Design mark); Reg. No. 3,627,820 (JUMPMAN word mark); Reg. No. 1,558,100 (JumpMan

Design mark); Reg. No. 978,952 (NIKE word mark); Reg. No. 1,214,930 (NIKE word mark);

Reg. No. 977,190 (Swoosh Design mark); Reg. No. 1,323,343 (Swoosh Design mark); and Reg.

No. 1,325,938 (NIKE & Swoosh Design mark).

169. Unless enjoined, Nike will continue to suffer immediate and irreparable injury

and StockX will continue to deceive the public unless enjoined from its counterfeiting conduct.

Nike has no adequate remedy at law.

-70-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 72 of 77

170. Because StockX’s conduct was willful, Nike is entitled to statutory damages of up

to $2 million per counterfeit mark per type of goods or services sold, offered for sale, or

distributed, pursuant to 15 U.S.C. § 1117.

SEVENTH CAUSE OF ACTION


FALSE ADVERTISING
15 U.S.C. § 1125(a)(1)(B)

171. Nike repeats and realleges each and every allegation in the foregoing Paragraphs 1

to 121 as if fully set forth herein.

172. In its pervasive advertising and marketing, StockX explicitly claims and

guarantees that every item it sells—including those items purportedly associated with the Vault

NFTs—has been independently verified by StockX as “100% Verified Authentic” through its

“proprietary” process.

173. In connection with the advertising activities, StockX is falsely and/or

misleadingly claiming that all Nike products sold on StockX’s platform are “100% Verified

Authentic” genuine, non-counterfeit goods manufactured by Nike, when, in fact, StockX is

selling to consumers counterfeit Nike shoes. It is also claiming that its process for authenticating

products is somehow “proprietary,” despite the fact that StockX is not the entity that designed,

created, manufactured, packaged, or shipped in the first instance any genuine Nike goods.

StockX is therefore misrepresenting the nature, characteristics, and qualities of its goods and

services and is misleading consumers in the process.

174. Upon information and belief, StockX made these false and/or misleading

representations in order to take advantage of Nike’s immense goodwill and to induce consumers

to purchase Nike shoes on the StockX platform. Nike has an intense interest in stopping StockX

from deceiving and misleading consumers into believing consumers can blindly trust that all of

-71-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 73 of 77

the Nike shoes offered by StockX are genuine when they are not. StockX’s false and/or

misleading statements are causing immediate and irreparable injury to Nike, by injuring Nike’s

reputation in the marketplace, diverting consumer purchases of genuine Nike goods, and will

continue to damage Nike and deceive consumers unless enjoined by this Court.

175. StockX’s acts constitute false advertising and false representations in violation of

15 U.S.C. § 1125(a)(1)(B). Nike has no adequate remedy at law.

JURY DEMAND

Pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 38(b), Nike hereby demands a trial by jury of

all issues so triable.

PRAYER FOR RELIEF

WHEREFORE, Nike respectfully prays for:

1. A judgment and order that StockX has willfully (A) infringed Nike’s Asserted

Marks and engaged in counterfeiting in violation of 15 U.S.C. §1114, (B) used false designations

of origin and made false and/or misleading statements in violation of 15 U.S.C § 1125(a), (C)

diluted at least the Nike Asserted Marks in violation of 15 U.S.C. § 1125(c), (D) injured Nike’s

business reputation and diluted at least Nike’s Asserted Marks violation of New York’s

Anti-Dilution Statute, N.Y. Gen. Bus. Law § 360-1, et seq., and (E) violated Nike’s common law

rights in Nike’s Asserted Marks;

2. A judgment and order enjoining StockX and StockX’s affiliates, officers, agents,

employees, attorneys, and all other persons acting in concert with StockX, during the pendency

of this action and permanently thereafter from:

a. Manufacturing, minting, transporting, promoting, advertising, publicizing,

distributing, offering for sale, or selling any NFT products (including but not

-72-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 74 of 77

limited to the Vault NFTs) under Nike’s Asserted Marks, any marks substantially

indistinguishable therefrom, or any other marks, names, symbols, or logos which

are likely to cause confusion or to cause mistake or to deceive persons into the

erroneous belief that any products that StockX caused to enter the stream of

commerce or any of StockX’s commercial activities are sponsored or licensed by

Nike, are authorized by Nike, or are connected or affiliated in some way with

Nike or Nike’s Asserted Marks;

b. Manufacturing, minting, transporting, promoting, advertising, publicizing,

distributing, offering for sale, or selling any NFT products (including but not

limited to the Vault NFTs) under Nike’s Asserted Marks, any marks substantially

indistinguishable therefrom, and/or confusingly similar marks;

c. Implying Nike’s approval, endorsement, or sponsorship of, or affiliation or

connection with, StockX’s products, services, or commercial activities, passing

off StockX’s business as that of Nike, or engaging in any act or series of acts

which, either alone or in combination, constitutes unfair methods of competition

with Nike and from otherwise interfering with or injuring Nike’s Asserted Marks

or the good will associated therewith;

d. Engaging in any act which is likely to dilute the distinctive quality of the

Nike Asserted Marks and/or injures Nike’s business reputation;

e. Representing or implying that StockX is in any way sponsored by,

currently affiliated with, or licensed by Nike; or

f. Engaging in the sale of counterfeit Nike goods;

-73-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 75 of 77

g. Claiming that every item sold on its platform is “100% Verified

Authentic” through a “proprietary” process or making any false and/or misleading

statements about its product authentication or verification process; or

h. f. Knowingly assisting, inducing, aiding, or abetting any other person or

business entity in engaging in or performing any of the activities referred to in

paragraphs 2(a) to (e) above;

3. An order that StockX be required to deliver to Nike for destruction any and all

Vault NFTs, associated footwear, digital files, packaging, printed graphics, promotional

materials, business cards, signs, labels, advertisements, flyers, circulars, and any other items in

any of their possession, custody, or control bearing Nike’s Asserted Marks, any marks

substantially indistinguishable therefrom, confusingly similar marks;

4. An order granting an award of damages suffered by Nike according to proof at the

time of trial;

5. An order that StockX account to Nike for any and all profits earned as a result of

StockX’s acts in violation of Nike’s rights;

6. An award of three times the amount of compensatory damages and increased

profits pursuant to 15 U.S.C. § 1117(a);

7. An award of three times such profits or damages, whichever amount is greater,

together with a reasonable attorneys’ fees, pursuant to 15 U.S.C. § 1117(b);

8. 7. An award of statutory damages pursuant to 15 U.S.C. § 1117(c);

9. 8. An order granting an award of punitive damages for the willful and wanton

nature of StockX’s aforesaid acts under the New York General Business Law and the common

law;

-74-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 76 of 77

10. 9. An order granting pre-judgment interest on any recovery by Nike;

11. 10. An order granting an award of Nike’s costs, expenses, and reasonable

attorneys’ fees; and

12. 11. Granting such other and further relief as is just and proper.

-75-
Case 1:22-cv-00983-VEC Document 33-2 Filed 05/10/22 Page 77 of 77

Dated: February 3, 2022___________ Respectfully submitted,

By:

DLA PIPER LLP (US)

By: /s/ Tamar Y. Duvdevani


Tamar Y. Duvdevani
Marc E. Miller
Jared Greenfield
DLA PIPER LLP (US)
1251 Avenue of the Americas 27th FloorFl.
New York, New York 10020-1104
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Telephone: 212.335.4500
Facsimile: 212.335.4501
Michael Fluhr
555 Mission Street
San Francisco, CA 9410
[email protected]

Attorneys for Plaintiff Nike, Inc.

-76-

You might also like