Dan Bilzerian, known for high-stakes poker and social media influence, has filed a lawsuit against his father Paul Bilzerian in Nevada federal court over the control of his vape business, Ignite International.

The lawsuit alleges that Paul Bilzerian, along with co-defendants Scott Rohleder and Rupy Dhadwar, illegally seized control of Ignite and continues to use Dan's name and likeness without permission. They allegedly also attempted to take over his Instagram account with 31.4 million followers.

Paul Bilzerian, a former corporate raider, served four years in prison for securities fraud in 1989 and owes the SEC $180 million in fines. The SEC recently charged him in September 2024 for allegedly hiding millions in Ignite.

According to the lawsuit:

• Dan Bilzerian was pushed out as CEO in December 2023 following disputes about company management
• He was removed from the board in June 2024 without the required 67% shareholder vote
• The company continues to use his name and likeness in marketing materials
• Defendants falsely claim Dan is under a non-compete agreement, preventing him from starting a similar business

The lawsuit seeks multiple damages for violations including:

• Publicity rights
• Unjust enrichment
• Economic interference
• Unfair competition
• Deceptive trade practices

The case is pending trial by jury in Nevada federal court.

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