Retired pro wrestler Billy Two Rivers sues Van Morrison over album cover
Ex-Mohawk chief says he didn't consent to use of image of him that appears on cover of Morrison's new record
A former professional wrestler and ex-chief of the Mohawk Council of Kahnawake is suing singer-songwriter Van Morrison and his record company over the music icon's upcoming album cover.
Billy Two Rivers wrestled around the world for more than two decades and was known for his trademark Mohawk hairstyle.
His image is being used on the cover of Van Morrison's new album, Roll With the Punches, slated to be released Sept. 22.
The photo shows Two Rivers, who is from Kahnawake, Que., throwing down an opponent on the mat, but according to his lawyer, the image was not used with Two Rivers's awareness or consent.
It is unclear who took the photo.
Among other things, Two Rivers is suing for violation of his right of publicity, according to the lawsuit which was filed Thursday in a New York court. None of the claims have been proven.
From wrestling star to chief
Two Rivers was a mainstay on the wrestling circuit in the 1950s and '60s, competing in the United States, England, Scotland and elsewhere.
He has also served on the Mohawk Council of Kahnwake in different capacities, including as elected chief in the 1990s. He was was a band council member during 1990 Oka Crisis.
He is also an actor, with roles in the 1995 movie Pocahontas: The Legend and APTN series Mohawk Girls.
Two Rivers is asking for an unspecified amount in compensation damages as well as punitive and exemplary damages and legal fees.
Graif said he is hoping the case can be settled without a long court process, but told CBC Montreal's Daybreak "that's something that is not up to me."
Music company Universal did not immediately return a request for comment from CBC News.
With files from Verity Stevenson and CBC Montreal's Daybreak