Why do some bands get away with STEALING an older band's name?

Worse even than that, why do the NAME-STEALERS usually end up with more success than their victims (i.e. the ones whose names they've STOLEN)? Classic example: NIRVANA. This is the only band with any rights to be called Nirvana:
[youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dcf19K5QFqQ]

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uncalled4 · 56-60, M

At the start, bands are supposed to do a copyright search to see if their name exists already. I don't have any legal info, but I'm certain they were compensated.

uncalled4 · 56-60, M

Ah. They were sued. They eventually reached a settlement. Via wiki. So you can't just use a copyrighted name

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uncalled4 · 56-60, M

@NosmoKing Is it that widespread, though? Do you have other examples?

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