Man sues Nintendo for $341,000 because he can’t be a Pokemon Professor
Kyle Lee Owens, a man from Iowa, is suing The Pokémon Company for $341,000 after his application to become an officially certified Pokémon Professor was rejected.
Pokémon Professors are real-world positions certified by The Pokémon Company to oversee and manage competitive Pokémon matches and tournaments. The role offers exclusive benefits and perks, including branded merchandise and access to special tournaments reserved for certified professionals. To qualify as a professor, applicants must stay current with Pokémon games and their numerous expansions, while demonstrating alignment with The Pokémon Company’s established core values and professional standards.
Owens did not meet the Company’s standards for certification, resulting in rejection of his application. Rather than accepting the decision, Owens has pursued legal action, suing The Pokémon Company for $341,000 in damages. The lawsuit reflects the significant value of official Pokémon Company recognition in the competitive Pokémon community, where certified professor status opens doors to professional opportunities, tournament participation, and exclusive perks that many aspiring players and collectors seek.