Dueling Axes, the axe-throwing bar that closed its AREA15 location in July, has filed a lawsuit against the entertainment complex, alleging breach of contract and unfair business practices affecting independent tenants
Dueling Axes, the axe-throwing bar and lounge that operated inside AREA15, has filed a lawsuit against its former landlord following the closure of its Las Vegas location in July. The legal action, filed in Clark County District Court on June 4, alleges that AREA15 engaged in practices that disadvantaged independent tenants and contributed to the closure of Dueling Axes’ Las Vegas venue.
The lawsuit comes after Dueling Axes, based in Cleveland, Ohio, permanently closed all five of its locations nationwide, including its Las Vegas outpost. According to the company’s legal representatives, the closures are directly linked to the ongoing dispute with AREA15.
Allegations of Unfair Competition
According to court documents, Dueling Axes claims that AREA15 implemented business systems and policies that favored so-called “insider tenants” at the expense of independently operated venues. The lawsuit specifically points to the introduction of “experience passes” in 2022, which bundled access to multiple attractions within AREA15 into a single ticket. Dueling Axes alleges these passes were structured to promote certain tenants while limiting exposure and access for independent operators like themselves.
The complaint further asserts that AREA15 made ongoing changes to the experience pass system, which Dueling Axes says continued to benefit select tenants and harm others. The lawsuit also claims that AREA15 discouraged visitors from purchasing entry to independent venues through written statements and marketing practices, resulting in lost business opportunities for Dueling Axes.
Financial Impact and Legal Demands
Dueling Axes alleges that AREA15’s conduct led to significant financial losses, including the loss of contracts with prospective customers and a decline in monthly revenue and profit. The company states it repeatedly notified AREA15 of what it considers material breaches of the lease, including a formal notice sent on March 31, but claims the property did not address the concerns.
The lawsuit seeks general and special damages exceeding $15,000, declaratory judgment, attorney’s fees, exemplary or punitive damages, and other relief as determined by the court. Dueling Axes is also requesting a formal declaration regarding the alleged breaches and the competitive practices at AREA15.
Background on Dueling Axes at AREA15
Dueling Axes opened its Las Vegas location inside AREA15 in December 2020, becoming one of the first tenants to invest in and build out a space at the immersive entertainment complex. By early 2022, the venue reported generating six-figure monthly profits, according to the lawsuit. However, the company says that changes in AREA15’s business model and marketing approach undermined its ability to attract customers and sustain operations.
AREA15 has not publicly responded to the lawsuit as of publication. The outcome of the case could have implications for other independent operators within the AREA15 complex and similar entertainment venues in Las Vegas.
