Have you ever wondered why some wrestlers keep their independent circuit names in WWE, while others are given completely different, sometimes strange, new names? The main reason comes down to trademark management.
In a series of Fightful Select Q&A sessions, Sapp shed light on WWE’s approach to this issue behind the scenes. It’s less about personal choice or a wrestler’s history and more about whether WWE believes it can legally own the rights to the name.
“If they believe they can secure the rights, they will,” Sapp explained.
But this system isn’t foolproof. Shawn highlighted a recent case involving former AEW star Ricky Starks, illustrating that WWE doesn’t always have the trademark details right.
“For instance, with Ricky Starks—they mistakenly thought AEW had the trademark. But Starks had used that name in WWE years before AEW. I was like, ‘What are you even talking about?’”
This confusion reveals that WWE’s naming policy is both calculated and flawed. Even if wrestlers have been using their indie names for a long time, and even if WWE has previously booked them under those names, it doesn’t guarantee WWE will own those rights.
If WWE believes they can make the name exclusive, they’ll pursue it. If not, often the name is changed altogether, either to avoid future legal complications or to maintain control over the brand, merchandise, and licenses.
For wrestlers new to WWE, this creates uncertainty. You either come in with a name you created or leave with a name you had no say in.
Is it justifiable for WWE to alter names to protect its trademarks, or should they allow talent to keep the identities they’ve built? Share your thoughts in the comments.
If you use this transcript in your publication, please credit Ringside News.
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Fan Take: This trademark tug-of-war highlights how WWE’s business decisions impact the creative aspect of wrestling, affecting not only wrestlers’ identities but also fan connections. For fans, understanding these behind-the-scenes dynamics adds a new layer to how we appreciate the sport and the performers’ journeys.
