I heard today from Del Wilkes, who wrestled as The Patriot in Global Wrestling and in WWE & Japan.
He retired from wrestling a while back but does occasionally do autograph appearances.
Wilkes called because he heard that Tom Brandi, who appears frequently in the NE as The Patriot (as well as Salvatore Sincere..often both on one show), has been telling folk that he bought the gimmick from Wilkes and is using it legally and properly. Wilkes says that is not true, and that Brandi is simply using the gimmick and trademark without his permission. Wilkes says he has not communicated with Brandi nor has seen him since 1994.
In addition Wilkes says that frequently pictures used to promote Brandi are actually his WWE pics.
I’ve seen promotion for Brandi where he’s been called the WWE’s Patriot, which clearly he was not. Brandi recently sent me pics of his two gimmicks, and one of the Patriot photos has the WWE logo in each corner.
Del Wilkes did not say whether he planned to take any action against Tom Brandi.
Wilkes asked that I get this story out so I published it here at wrestlezone.com
