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Skateboarding legend sues Sega and Activision

Alan Gelfand, the 42 year old skateboarder who was nicknamed "Ollie" after the world famous trick he invented in 1977, is suing Sega and Activision for alleged trademark infringement.

Alan Gelfand, the 42 year old skateboarder who was nicknamed "Ollie" after the world famous trick he invented in 1977, is suing Sega and Activision for alleged trademark infringement.

Gelfand's suit did not specify any products in particular, but Sega recently launched an arcade game titled Ollie King. Activision is the publisher of Disney's Extreme Skate Adventure, which features an environment called Olliewood - the same name as a ramp featured on Gelfand's website.

The suit also names Ron Jon Surf Shop, which was selling "Ollieboards" until receiving a cease and desist notice from Gelfand's lawyers.

Speaking to the Miami Herald, Gelfand described the legal battle as a David and Goliath scenario, stating: "I'm just a skateboarder. I'm not a huge, mega corporation... yet."

Gelfand is seeking USD 20 million in damages.

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Ellie Gibson: Ellie spent nearly a decade working at Eurogamer, specialising in hard-hitting executive interviews and nob jokes. These days she does a comedy show and podcast. She pops back now and again to write the odd article and steal our biscuits.