Wrestlers often undergo changes to their ring names or personas, which doesn’t always sit well with fans. However, in many cases, these changes are meaningful and reflect deeper significance beyond mere branding shifts in WWE’s developmental or main roster phases.
For some wrestlers, changing their names carries far more weight than fans may initially realize, sometimes easing unpopular transitions or adding depth to popular ones.
6. Mariah May to Blake Monroe
| Ring Name | Usage Period |
|————–|————–|
| Mariah May | 2018–2025 |
| Blake Monroe | 2025–Present |
Mariah May rose through Stardom and AEW, engaging in one of the most notable women’s rivalries in wrestling history. Upon joining WWE, she retired the Mariah May character and debuted as Blake Monroe, a name infused with personal meaning. “Monroe” honors Marilyn Monroe, while “Blake” is derived from her real-life niece’s name, making it a heartfelt tribute rather than a random choice.
5. Michael McGillicutty to Curtis Axel
| Ring Name | Usage Period |
|——————–|————–|
| Joe Hennig | 2007–2010 |
| Michael McGillicutty | 2010–2013 |
| Curtis Axel | 2013–2022 |
Initially performing as Michael McGillicutty, known for its challenging spelling, he was part of The Nexus faction and WWE Tag Team Champion. Later rebranded as Curtis Axel, the name honors his lineage—his father was Mr. Perfect (wrestled as Curt Hennig), and his grandfather was Larry “The Ax” Hennig, with the ring name combining elements from both.
4. Jamal to Umaga
| Ring Name | Usage Period |
|—————-|————–|
| Eddie Fatu | 1995–2001 |
| Jamal | 2002–2003, 2004–2006 |
| Umaga | 2006–2009 |
Starting WWE as Jamal in the 3 Minute Warning tag team, he reemerged with a new persona named Umaga, named after the traditional Samoan tattooing process symbolizing “the end” and representing a challenging, painful rite. This fit perfectly with his intimidating, tattoo-covered, monster heel character, although occasional mispronunciations like “Umanga” by commentators added some confusion.
3. Boris Alexiev to Santino Marella
| Ring Name | Usage Period |
|——————–|————–|
| Johnny Geo Basco | 2003–2006 |
| Boris Alexiev | 2006–2007 |
| Santino Marella | 2007–Present |
| Santina Marella | 2009 |
Before reaching WWE’s main stage, he wrestled in developmental as Boris Alexiev, portrayed as a Russian MMA fighter, a stark contrast to his later comedic Italian character, Santino Marella. This name paid tribute to the wrestling legend Gorilla Monsoon, whose real name was Robert Marella, inspiring Santino’s theme and flamboyant ring entrance, much to Vince McMahon’s approval.
2. Paul Wight to Big Show
| Ring Name | Usage Period |
|————|————–|
| Giant | 1995–1999 |
| Paul Wight | 1999 |
| Big Show | 1999–2021 |
| Paul Wight | 2021–Present |
Coming from WCW where he was The Giant, Paul Wight initially competed under his real name in WWE before becoming “The Big Show.” This name wasn’t just a brand—its initials “TBS” linked to WCW’s TV legacy, reflecting the turbulent Monday Night Wars era and adding another layer to his wrestling journey.
1. Powerhouse Hobbs to Royce Keys
| Ring Name | Usage Period |
|—————–|————–|
| Will I.S. | 2014 |
| Will Rude | 2009–2016 |
| Will Hobbs | 2016–2020 |
| Powerhouse Hobbs| 2020–2026 |
| Royce Keys | 2026–Present |
At the 2026 Royal Rumble, former AEW standout Powerhouse Hobbs made a surprise appearance under the new name Royce Keys. Contrary to fans’ initial assumption that this was a random WWE invention, the name carries deep personal significance: “Lois” is his son’s name, and “Keys” was the last name of his late mother, making this a very meaningful tribute as he embarks on his WWE chapter.
Fan Take:
These thoughtful name changes show how WWE often blends personal history and legacy into wrestlers’ identities, creating authentic connections for both performers and fans. Understanding these deeper stories enriches the viewing experience and highlights how the sport evolves by honoring its roots while building new stars.
