Court Sides Largely With Armadillo Distribution Enterprises In Dimebag Darrell/Dean Guitars Legal Fight

A Florida court has issued a summary judgment that heavily favors Armadillo Distribution Enterprises in its ongoing legal dispute with In Dime We Trust, the trust representing the estate of late Dimebag Darrell Abbott. According to a press release from Armadillo, the court dismissed most of the claims in the case, including the majority of the trademark, fraud, and breach of contract allegations.

The ruling centers on the long-running dispute over Dean Guitars and endorsement agreements tied to Dimebag’s legacy, including ownership of certain guitar models and related trademarks. Armadillo says the court’s decision confirms its ownership of the Stealth and Razorback trademarks, along with the Razorback design and related intellectual property.

The case has been ongoing since 2021, when the Abbott estate first filed suit and alleged that Dean had failed to honor the terms of its endorsement deal with the late guitarist. At the time, Rita Haney said the lawsuit was a difficult but necessary move to protect and properly honor Dimebag’s legacy.

“After much consideration, it is with great sadness that I announce the longstanding relationship between Dimebag and Dean Guitars is over. Unfortunately, we were forced to file a lawsuit against Dean Guitars on Monday, August 16th, for the reason set forth in the complaint that may be viewed at www.dimebagdarrell.com. It was necessary for us to end Dime’s endorsement of Dean Guitars to continue to honor and celebrate his legacy the way he deserves, and in the way he had laid it out.”

Armadillo’s release says the company worked with the Abbott family for nearly two decades and described the ruling as a confirmation of its longstanding position in the dispute. The court’s order reportedly sided with Armadillo on 11 of 13 counts.

“We are grateful for the Court’s thorough and careful consideration of the law.”
— Pamela Keris, Owner & CEO, Armadillo Distribution Enterprises

If you’re rocking with The Mosh Network, hit the link and add us as a Preferred Source on Google. That’s the easiest way to keep our latest metal, hardcore, and alternative news, tours, and releases showing up directly in your feed.