More WWE stars could be getting their old ring names back – or have new names – as part of changes by the new head of creative, Triple H, according to reports.
Over the last few months, in particular, WWE have changed the ring names of several Superstars. This was primarily done under the Vince McMahon regime.
The reason for most of the changes is mainly because it enables WWE to trademark the new ring names. McMahon also told new talent that he did not want them using their real names, or names used before signing for WWE.
Amongst the changes have been Tommaso Ciampa – real name Tommaso Whitney – having his first name dropped. Austin Theory – real name Austin White – has had a similar change. Pete Dunne, meanwhile, has been renamed Butch, whilst Raquel Gonzalez has had her surname tweaked to Rodriguez.
Whilst some of these changes have been accepted by most WWE fans, there has been a certain level of pushback against others. For instance, some fans felt calling Dunne the one-worded name of ‘Butch’ was unnecessary, while others feel that Ciampa and Theory don’t suit one-worded names either.
According to new reports, however, Triple H is planning to reverse some of the WWE name changes implemented by McMahon – and change other names to better suit the character.
WWE name changes: Who could have their names changed?
Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter has claimed that the former Humberto Carrillo – now going as simply ‘Humberto’ – is likely to revert to his old ring name. His Los Lotharios tag team partner, Angel Garza, has recently had his name restored after going as ‘Angel’ in recent months.
Meltzer says: “Some of the weird name quirks may be changing. The belief is Humberto will get Carrillo back as well.”
In addition, Doudrop has stated in an interview with Inside The Ropes‘ Alex McCarthy that Triple H has discussed potentially changing her name.
She explained: “We did have a conversation about it. Because here’s the thing. Before, it was Vince’s vision. And now, it’s Triple H’s vision. So it’s like, ‘What’s your vision, and where do you see this going? Are you open to ideas?’
“For me, I don’t mind either way. I would just like to make more deliberate steps going forward with [my] character. I feel like, for the past little while, things have [been weird].
“Now that Triple H has come on board, I kinda just wanted to get more of a feel of who she is supposed to be, and what the options would be as far as different facets of that character, or maybe a new character, or maybe even an old character. So we’ll see.”
Furthermore, WrestlingNews claim that there has been speculation over Ciampa getting his first name back. With Triple H now in charge of creative, more WWE name changes could happen in the next few months.
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