In a move that’s generating considerable buzz, Jordon Hudson, the girlfriend of University of North Carolina (UNC) head football coach Bill Belichick, has filed a trademark for the phrase “Gold Digger.” This bold trademark application, seemingly a direct response to public scrutiny, highlights the complexities of their relationship and Belichick’s evolving brand. The filing, made through their company, TCE Rights Management LLC, signals a strategic effort to reclaim the narrative surrounding Hudson and potentially capitalize on the attention, as reported by Fox Business and Sports Illustrated. The application was submitted on Monday, August 25, 2025, with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Trademarking Controversy
The decision to trademark “Gold Digger” is a calculated one, given the 49-year age gap between the 24-year-old Hudson and the 73-year-old Belichick. Since their relationship became public in June 2024, it has been a subject of intense media coverage and public opinion, often laced with skepticism. According to TMZ, the couple reportedly met on a flight in February 2021, setting the stage for a relationship that would eventually thrust them into the spotlight. The trademark filing can be interpreted as Hudson taking ownership of the pejorative label, turning it into a potential brand asset.
TCE Rights Management LLC
TCE Rights Management LLC, the entity behind the “Gold Digger” trademark, is owned by Belichick and managed by Hudson. This company has been actively involved in filing numerous trademarks this year, suggesting a comprehensive strategy to build and monetize Belichick’s brand. WCNC reports that these filings include phrases like “Chapel Bill,” “The All-Belichick Team,” and “The Belichick Way,” showcasing a clear intention to leverage Belichick’s legacy as he transitions into his new role as a college coach.
Public Image and Family Concerns
The “Gold Digger” trademark has had a noticeable impact on the couple’s public image. Some view it as a clever and humorous response to critics, while others see it as a risky move that could further fuel negative perceptions. OutKick highlights that Belichick’s family has reportedly expressed concerns regarding Hudson’s influence and the potential damage to his long-standing reputation. The timing of the filing, just before Belichick’s debut as UNC’s head coach, amplifies the scrutiny surrounding their relationship and business endeavors.
“Trail of Salty Tears”
Adding to the controversy, another trademark filing by TCE Rights Management LLC, “Trail of Salty Tears,” has also drawn criticism. 98.5 The Sports Hub notes that this phrase, perceived as insensitive and provocative, has further fueled the debate surrounding the couple’s approach to managing their public image and brand.
Branding Belichick
The broader trademark strategy employed by TCE Rights Management LLC points to a deliberate effort to build a brand around Bill Belichick, particularly as he embarks on his coaching career at UNC. This includes not only protecting his name and likeness but also capitalizing on phrases and concepts associated with his coaching philosophy and personal life. This branding strategy reflects a growing trend among high-profile figures to control their narrative and monetize their image, as noted by The Times of India.
Monetizing a Legacy
The move to trademark phrases like “The Belichick Way” and “The All-Belichick Team” suggests a desire to create a lasting legacy that extends beyond the football field. By owning these trademarks, Belichick and Hudson can potentially license them for use on merchandise, apparel, and other products, generating revenue and solidifying Belichick’s brand identity. This approach aligns with the strategies employed by other prominent figures in sports and entertainment, who seek to control and profit from their personal brands.
Reclaiming the Narrative
The “Gold Digger” trademark filing can be seen as an attempt by Jordon Hudson to reclaim the narrative surrounding her relationship with Bill Belichick. By taking ownership of the term, she is challenging the negative connotations associated with it and potentially turning it into a symbol of empowerment. This bold move reflects a growing trend among individuals in the public eye to actively manage their image and confront criticism head-on, as PEOPLE Magazine suggests.
Impact on the Relationship
While the trademark filing may be intended to protect and enhance the couple’s brand, it also carries potential risks. The controversy surrounding the “Gold Digger” trademark could further strain their relationship with Belichick’s family and intensify public scrutiny. It remains to be seen whether this bold move will ultimately strengthen their brand or create further challenges for the couple. WFTV suggests that the long-term impact will depend on how they manage the public’s perception and navigate the ongoing controversy.
Conclusion
Jordon Hudson’s trademark filing for “Gold Digger” is a calculated, attention-grabbing move that encapsulates the complexities of her relationship with Bill Belichick and their broader branding strategy. While intended to reclaim a pejorative label and capitalize on their public image, it also raises questions about the impact on Belichick’s legacy and the couple’s relationship with his family. The success of this endeavor hinges on their ability to navigate the ongoing scrutiny and manage the narrative surrounding their controversial but undoubtedly newsworthy ventures.
