Topolewski

INTRODUCTION

Gary G. Topolewski appeals an order granting defendant AECOM Energy & Construction, Inc.’s special motion to strike under Code of Civil Procedure section 425.16,1 commonly known as an anti-SLAPP motion. We affirm.

FACTUAL BACKGROUND AND PROCEDURAL HISTORY

In July 2017, AECOM sued Topolewski, who owned a clothing business known as Metal Jeans, Inc., for trademark infringement under both state and federal law in the United States District Court for the Central District of California (federal action). AECOM alleged in the federal action that Topolewski and others wrongfully used trademarks associated with AECOM’s predecessor, Morrison Knudsen Corporation. AECOM obtained summary judgment in November 2018 against Topolewski in the federal action in the amount of approximately $1.8 billion plus interest, with attorneys’ fees of approximately $900,000. Thereafter, in September 2019, AECOM recorded an abstract of judgment with the Los Angeles County Recorder reflecting the damages and attorneys’ fees awards. AECOM filed a separate state court action in November 2019 to set aside an allegedly fraudulent conveyance of real property by Topolewski to a third party (fraudulent…