NBA Rumors: Kobe Bryant Losing 'Black Mamba' Brand? Roger Mayweather Close to Completing Trademark Application

Los Angeles Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant could lose his Black Mamba Brand. Floyd Mayweather Jr.'s uncle and former head trainer Roger Mayweather is trying to tademarking the star's moniker, a source close to situation reported on Friday.

Bryant has been known as the "Black Mamba" for most of his NBA career. But there's very high possibility he could no longer have the popular moniker on his brand of sneakers and sports apparel when Mayweather's trademark application gets completed.

According to TMZ, Roger Mayweather's application is now in the final stage with USTPO. A former boxer, Roger Mayweather claimed he used the "Black Mamba" name years ago after he learned about the snake on a nature show about reptiles.

"Roger Mayweather -- a former boxing champ turned trainer -- filed a trademark application with the U.S.P.T.O. hoping to win the rights to the mark, 'Roger 'Black Mamba' Mayweather. Roger says he gave himself the nickname years ago after watching a nature show about reptiles," TMZ reported.

Roger Mayweather, who is the former head trainer of pound-for-pound king and boxing superstar Floyd Mayweather Jr., will reportedly use the Black Mamba brand name for his boxing gym and coaching. 

Bryant has been using the "Black Mamba" name for quite some time; he even used the character of the cold-blooded animal as motivation to get going at rough times.

"No matter what happens come hell or high water you're going to figure it out. Never die attitude," Bryant told Lakers Nation's Serena Winters of how the Black Mamba name has molded his character.

Unfortunately, Bryant may lose his trademark to the name soon. The star has not taken any steps to re-trademark his moniker, allowing Mayweather to get the exclusive use of the name.

"But get this ... when researching the trademark claims on "Black Mamba," we couldn't find any evidence showing Kobe has ever tried to trademark the name for himself. We did find applications for condom brands, carbonated drinks, male enhancement products, spinal implants, cigars and more ... but nothing from Bryant," TMZ reported.