Michael Jordan Gets $8.9 Million After Suing Grocery Chain For Using His Name in Steak Ad

Another win and a another couple of million for His Airness.

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Complex Original

Image via Complex Original

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UPDATE (August 21, 10:10 p.m.): Jordan released a statement about the verdict. He revealed that he's not pocketing the money and is instead giving it to charity. Jordan is also happy with the win, by the way.

I'm pleased with today's verdict. No one -- whether or not they're a public figure -- should have to worry about their identity being used without their permission. The case was not about the money as I plan to donate the proceeds to charity. It was about honesty and integrity. I hope this case sends a clear message, both here in the United States and around the world, that I will continue to be vigilant about protecting my name and identity. I also hope the size of the monetary reward will deter others from using someone else's identity and believe they will only pay a small penalty.

It's the 11th Commandment: Don't use Michael Jordan's name in vain. Dominick's owners violated it and their pockets will be slimmer as a result.

Last week, Jordan took aim at the defunct grocery chain for using his name in a 2009 Sports Illustrated advertisement to sell steak. The advertisement congratulated him on his Hall of Fame induction, but Jordan argued that it hurt his brand image.

This week, it's another win for His Airness. The court ordered Safeway, Dominick's owner, to pay Jordan $8.9 million for what's become a very expensive ad.

BREAKING: Jury says Safeway, Dominick's owner, has to pay Michael Jordan $8.9 MILLION for this ad in SI in 2009 pic.twitter.com/DD6O7Rt3D9

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[via Darren Rovell]

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