BREAKING: WWE star and social media influencer Logan Paul has filed an urgent lawsuit against Heritage Auctions in Texas district court, raising serious concerns over the authenticity of a Michael Jordan-signed piece of the United Center floor. This legal action, initiated on October 5, 2023, comes just as Paul was set to finalize his payment of $562,555.42 for the high-profile item.
Paul claims he was denied the opportunity to verify the floor’s authenticity prior to being pressured to make payment, which was originally due on September 25. According to court records, Heritage warned Paul that failing to meet this deadline would forfeit his rights to the collectible.
In response to the situation, Paul’s attorney, Josh Bernstein of Akerman LLP, has secured a temporary restraining order against Heritage Auctions. The court will reconvene on October 9, 2023, to discuss a temporary injunction. Bernstein emphasized the importance of authenticity in the collectibles market, stating,
“Collectors like Logan deserve, and are entitled to, proof of authenticity that holds up under scrutiny.”
The auction house promoted the floor as a “ultimate Michael Jordan display piece,” describing it as an 8’x8′ section of the “1994-98 United Center Original Game Used Court.” The piece is not only signed by Jordan but also features inscriptions such as “Air Jordan,” “5X MVP,” and “6X Finals MVP.” Heritage touted the floor as historic, claiming it was used during the Bulls’ three championship seasons and included a certificate of authenticity from Upper Deck Authentication, alongside third-party validation from PSA/DNA and Beckett Authentication Services.
However, the lawsuit alleges discrepancies regarding the floor’s authenticity. Court documents indicate that Paul’s injunction points out that the court’s condition does not align with that from the 1995-1998 seasons, suggesting it may have been replaced or resurfaced. Bernstein has sought further documentation from Heritage, which, according to emails obtained in court records, revealed a lack of evidence linking the floor to the specified championship seasons.
Heritage Auctions has responded to the allegations, asserting that they stand by the authenticity of the item and had made provisions for Paul to inspect it in person. A spokesperson stated, “We stand behind every item that we sell,” insisting the floor was directly acquired from the Bulls.
As this legal battle unfolds, collectors and fans alike are watching closely. The outcome could have significant implications for the collectibles industry, particularly regarding the standards of authentication for high-value items.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
