Designer accuses WWE and Mitchell & Ness of using original CM Punk artwork

Graphic designer David Stenken has accused WWE and Mitchell & Ness of using his original artwork without permission for a new apparel collection. Stenken, who is the head graphic designer at Pro Wrestling Tees, claims the designs used on several new CM Punk hoodies are identical to artwork he created for Punk’s 2021 debut in All Elite Wrestling (AEW).

Stenken noted that the original design was a top-selling merchandise item for AEW at the time. He expressed frustration on social media, sharing side-by-side comparisons of his work and the new WWE products, and requested legal recommendations. While one report suggests Mitchell & Ness may have taken down the apparel following the claim, WWE and Mitchell & Ness have not issued official statements regarding the accusation.

CM Punk, who transitioned from AEW to WWE, is the central figure of the merchandise line. The dispute highlights potential intellectual property issues regarding wrestler-related branding across different professional wrestling promotions.