Martha Hart, the widow of deceased pro wrestler Owen Hart, filed a lawsuit against WWE, Vince McMahon, and Linda McMahon in Hartford, Conn. on Tuesday. The lawsuit alleges that WWE and the McMahons used Owen's name and likeness without right in dozens of commercial videos and other materials, and disregarded her wishes against further association, according to a press release issued by Martha's attorney.

"In the eleven years since Owen's tragic and avoidable death, I have worked tirelessly to disassociate Owen's name and likeness from anything related to WWE in order to protect our children from any reminder of the circumstances surrounding their father's death, and to avoid any misplaced perception that I endorse WWE," Martha Hart said in a statement.

"Unfortunately, even though WWE, Vince McMahon and Linda McMahon were and are well aware of my wishes and desire to shield my children from WWE and its activities, I was shocked to learn earlier this year that they have been using Owen's name and likeness in videos, websites, television programs and print materials.

"Given this callous, insensitive and irresponsible behavior, one must question the moral character of Vince and Linda McMahon and the manner in which they conduct their business." To read the full press release, visit PRNewswire.com.

Powell's POV: I'm not sure what Linda has to do with the lawsuit given that she gave up her position with the company. My guess is that by attaching Linda's name to the lawsuit, the goal is to garner media attention since she's running for office.

The press release notes that Martha is hoping to enjoin WWE from further use of Owen's name and likeness, and seeks unpaid royalties and damages for breach of contract, copyright infringement, unjust enrichment, accounting, and unfair and deceptive trade practices. It's worth noting that the timing of Bret Hart's storyline departure took place just one day before the lawsuit was filed.

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