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Fanatics and Panini America escalate legal battle over trading card industry dominance

Overview

  • Fanatics filed a countersuit against Panini after being accused of anticompetitive behavior and trying to monopolize the industry.
  • Panini previously sued Fanatics for unfair practices like raiding employees and making false statements.
  • Fanatics acquired competitor Topps in 2022 and signed major licensing deals with leagues and unions.
  • Panini alleged Fanatics is trying to force it out of agreements early to pay exorbitant fees.
  • The legal fight highlights growing tensions as Fanatics aims to become the top trading card company.