Sports Illustrated Owner Sues Ex-Publisher for $48 Million Over Licensing Feud

Authentic Brands Group alleges former publisher Manoj Bhargava held Sports Illustrated 'hostage' to renegotiate licensing deal.

Authentic Brands Group, owner of Sports Illustrated, has filed a lawsuit against former publisher Manoj Bhargava and the Arena Group for failing to make a $48 million licensing payment.
Bhargava is accused of threatening to 'go nuclear' by sabotaging SI, demanding lower fees, and holding the brand 'hostage' to force a new deal.
The lawsuit claims Arena Group continued using SI trademarks and withheld subscriber data and content after their license was revoked.
Authentic Brands has since transferred the Sports Illustrated publishing rights to Minute Media, aiming to continue the brand's legacy.
The legal battle highlights a series of alleged wrongful acts by Bhargava, including breach of contract and trademark infringement.