Latest on Lawsuit Over ‘Badstreet USA’

– WWE is asking for an extension of time so they can properly respond to the lawsuit that’s been issued against them, Stephanie Music, composer Jim Johnston and Michael Hayes by James Papas. Papas co-wrote and composed the theme song associated with Michael Hayes and the Fabulous Freebirds, “Badstreet USA,” along with other entrance themes used by WCW.

WWE received a motion that gives them until October 8 to respond to the lawsuit. Papas claims that his original registered songs were later re-registered to WWE and listed Jim Johnston and/or Michael Hayes as the composers of the material, along with Stephanie Music as the publisher. This takes away revenue and credit that Papas feels should have gone to him.

He also claims that WWE wrongfully infringed on his music by using “Badstreet USA” in ring tones released by WWE, by using material he composed on the DVD The Triumph and Tragedy of World Class Championship Wrestling and by using his work on various older matches broadcast on the Classics on Demand VOD service.

Papas claims that “due to Defendant WWE’s erroneous registrations and its failure to submit proper cues to BMI, Plaintiffs have not received any payment or royalties in connection with these performances.”

Credit: PWInsider

Must-read news from around the site:
* Victoria Silvstedt puts her bikini booty on display in Italy
* The Bourne Legacy expected to win box office this weekend
* Drake breaks the record for #1 songs on R&B/Hip-Hop Chart
* Check out Halo 4’s new weaponry trailer
* The Top 10 Batman Movie Villains
* 411’s UFC 150 Roundtable Preview