Rawlings cuts ties with Vick
Endorsement deal lost due to dogfighting allegations


The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 07/31/07

Michael Vick lost another sponsor as Rawlings, which used his likeness to sell merchandise and modeled a football using his name, ended its relationship with the Falcons quarterback Tuesday. The St. Louis-based sporting goods manufacturer cited Vick's indictment on dogfighting charges as the reason it severed its ties.

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"Rawlings is disappointed about the charges bought against Mr. Vick for his alleged participation in a dogfighting operation," a statement on its website read. "Dogfighting is illegal and unacceptable to Rawlings."

Vick and three others pleaded not guilty to federal dogfighting charges last week in Richmond, Va. One of the co-defendants, Tony Taylor, reversed his plea and pled guilty Monday while agreeing to cooperate with authorities in its push for prosecution.

Rawlings is the latest company to cut ties with Vick, who, just a few years ago, was one of the most bankable sports personalities in the United States. Nike suspended its contract with Vick. Upper Deck and Donruss trading card companies said they would not include Vick's cards in this season's releases.

Reebok, which did not have an endorsement deal with Vick, suspended sales and the manufacturing of his merchandise. The NFL also has stopped selling Vick-related merchandise on its website. Dick's Sporting Goods and Sports Authority have also stopped selling Vick-related goods in their stores.

"Rawlings recognizes that Mr. Vick has not been convicted of the charges stemming from his recent indictment," Rawlings' statement read. "However, we have determined that ending our relationship with Mr. Vick at this time is necessary."


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