The ex-janitor-turned-executive who said he invented Flamin’ Hot Cheetos sued his former employers, saying he was harmed when Frito-Lay and PepsiCo denied his role in creating the popular hot snack.

A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by the man who says he invented Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. Richard Montañez had sued Frito-Lay and its parent company PepsiCo last year, alleging they defamed him and hurt his career by denying his role in creating the popular snack.

Richard Montañez’s rags-to-riches story remains in dispute after a judge ruled in favor of Frito-Lay and PepsiCo, but he has a chance to amend his case.