The owner of OMG Gum filed a $10 million lawsuit against hockey legend Wayne Gretzky Monday, alleging his false claims resulted in the closure of his company.
Steven Sparks says he created the natural gum company that was “used to manage weight,” according to TMZ. He alleges the hockey legend made false weight loss claims that were used to promote his brand, ultimately leading to the shutdown of his organization.
Man suing Wayne Gretzky for $10 million in bizarre chewing gum lawsuit https://t.co/XFcw18C4KC pic.twitter.com/rjWbAX7Xmk
— The Comeback (@thecomeback) August 15, 2022
Sparks claims Gretzky had made claims that he lost 35 pounds after chewing the product during a two-month period, according to TMZ. He later retraced his claims and admitted the loss was fabricated, causing the company’s stock and business to tank, the outlet reported.
The lawsuit indicates Sparks originally hired Gretzky’s wife, Janet Marie Gretzky, to endorse OMG Gum, according to TMZ. The owner alleges the star lied to boost the company’s stock, “which he surreptitiously purchased under his family’s name,” the outlet reported. (RELATED: Best Belly Fat Burner: Top 7 Thermogenic Fat Burning Pills of 2022)
The business owner reportedly had no indication or knowledge about the fact that Gretzky’s story was based on a lie and as a result he continued to reinvest money and services into his company, according to TMZ.
Gretzky played in the NHL for 20 years on the Edmonton Oilers, and the Los Angeles Kings, and was the league’s all-time leader in goals, assists and points, according to the New York Daily News.