Dogecoin Pup’s IP Rights Holder Expands with Neiro, Reviving Interest in Meme Culture

Neiro IP Sparks Debate as Meme Tokens Face Increased Scrutiny

The world of IP-backed meme tokens is heating up, with recent developments highlighting the growing importance of intellectual property (IP) rights in the crypto space. A showdown over Neiro, a Shiba Inu connected to the legacy of the iconic “Doge” meme, is now unfolding, as communities and token creators clash over legitimacy.

Own The Doge DAO, the collective that owns the original “Doge” meme IP, revealed on Tuesday that it had secured the rights to Neiro’s likeness. This development has prompted a community discussion to determine which NEIRO token, among the many circulating in the market, will earn the official endorsement.

“We’re thrilled to announce that @kabosumama has officially entrusted our DAO with the Neiro IP,” the DAO shared on X. “Following Neiro’s introduction to the world, multiple tokens emerged, each vying for recognition. Now, the community has the opportunity to weigh in on the future of Neiro’s digital legacy.”

Neiro Tokens Take Center Stage

Neiro became a sensation after her adoption was announced by Kabosumama, the human owner of the original Doge meme icon, Kabosu, who passed away earlier this year. The news spurred the creation of numerous NEIRO tokens on Solana and Ethereum, two of which have amassed significant market capitalizations and loyal communities.

However, Kabosumama clarified her stance on the tokens in an X post: “I do not endorse any crypto project except @ownthedog $DOG because they own the original Doge photo and IP. Please be cautious of scams. Our focus remains on positivity, charity, and Doge culture.”

A Clash of Communities

The debate has drawn strong opinions from token teams, each making their case for legitimacy.

“Being the first Neiro token launched on-chain gives us a unique claim to the IP,” stated @Neirowoof, the team behind one of the first NEIRO tokens. “Our community has been steadfast in preserving the legacy of Kabosu and Neiro since day one. We stand as the true guardians of this legacy, committed to integrity and the values these dogs symbolize.”

Others have argued that newer tokens with active development and engagement better reflect Neiro’s evolving story.

Legal Clouds Gather Over Meme Tokens

The controversy surrounding Neiro is part of a larger trend in the crypto world, as IP-backed tokens gain prominence. Historically, memecoins have operated with little regard for intellectual property rights, but the tide is shifting. Tokens that lack proper IP authorization are increasingly vulnerable to legal action.

Recent examples include the PNUT token, which faces legal action from Mark Longo, the creator of “Peanut the Squirrel.” Longo accused Binance of infringing on his trademark by listing PNUT without permission, sparking broader concerns over unlicensed tokens.

The Path Forward for Neiro

As discussions unfold, the Doge community is expected to vote on an on-chain proposal to determine which NEIRO token aligns with the DAO’s vision for Neiro’s IP. The outcome may set a precedent for how IP-backed meme tokens navigate the delicate balance between community-driven initiatives and legal obligations.

In the meantime, Neiro’s story underscores the growing stakes in the world of memecoins, where intellectual property is becoming as important as market cap.