This is how Hot Toys marketed it. Probably on all of their promotion lit like the pre-order info. I think Rogue One helped bring about their release though.
"Sideshow and Hot Toys are pleased to officially introduce the sixth scale collectible figure of the Death Star Gunner for Star Wars fans to add to their collection! The highly-accurate collectible figure is specially crafted based on the appearance of the Death Star Gunner in Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope and features a greatly detailed unique helmet, expertly tailored outfit that can be interchanged between the two styles of looks, a blaster pistol, and figure base. This Death Star Gunner will surely make a great addition to your Imperial display!"