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5 original names for WWE Superstars that Vince McMahon said no to

The Brahma Bull, The Rock had a much different name before WWE.
The Brahma Bull, The Rock had a much different name before WWE.

As Shakespeare wrote in Romeo and Juliet, "What's in a name?"

One of the first thing you ever receive, your name will follow you throughout your life, and based on perceptions, could be a defining part of you for your life.

In the WWE, a name can often be the most important thing a new Superstar receives, as a ridiculous name can often sink a Superstar's plans, unless they are incredibly talented.

Even nowadays, most WWE Superstars have to adapt to a name they've never used before, unless they have been a big star elsewhere, whose name already has plenty of credibilities and drawing power to it, for example, AJ Styles.

Here are five names for current WWE Superstars that Vince McMahon said no to, and why he made the call.


#5: Bayley (Davina Rose)

Bayley has become one of WWE's most popular women in recent history.
Bayley has become one of WWE's most popular women in recent history.

SmackDown Women's champion Bayley is one of the most popular women in the WWE, even when she didn't have any gold around her waist.

Joining the wrestling scene in 2008, the former RAW Women's Champion spent years on the independent scene, honing her craft under the ring name Davina Rose.

Becoming a part of WWE in 2012, Bayley was hoping to continue to compete as Davina Rose, though the name was shot down by WWE officials.

Whilst it's never been clear why exactly the name was shot down, the WWE have in recent years preferred one-word names, with several stars getting cut, including (Antonio) Cesaro, (Alexander) Rusev, and most recently Andrade ('Cien' Almas).

Fortunately for Rose, the name Bayley has worked, with the San Jose Superstar becoming one of the most beloved WWE Superstars of all time, thanks to her cheery personality.

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