Backstage Details On Why Vince McMahon Is Changing WWE Superstar Names

Over the last few weeks fans have seen a number of talents get called up to the main roster, and several have them have taken on new names. Austin Theory also surprised fans this week on Raw when he announced that he will only be using the name Theory moving forward.

The Wrestling Observer Newsletter reports that talent received a memo and Vince McMahon has decreed that he doesn’t want anyone new using their real names anymore, or names that they previously used on the independent scene.

The report also noted that the Austin was dropped from Austin Theory’s name because his real name is Austin White. It was also noted that the rule about not using real names only applies to people who are newer and doesn’t apply to talents like Brock Lesnar, Randy Orton, Ronda Rousey and Cody Rhodes.

Last week on Friday Night SmackDown fans saw Gunther, formerly known as WALTER get called up along with Marcel Barthel who debuted under the name Ludwig Kaiser. Pete Dunne also got the internet talking a few weeks ago when he was called up as Butch.

WWE reportedly doesn’t want anyone new using names that they used elsewhere, unless they’re a talent like Gable Steveson. However, it was also noted that this rule could end up changing soon enouggh.