Ricky Starks Addresses Criticism Of WWE Name Change

Ricky Starks, now known as Ricky Saints, addresses his name change that was revealed during tonight’s episode of WWE NXT.

Tonight’s show played host to a contract signing segment that ended with the camera zooming in on the name on the contract he signed, which said Ricky Saints.

Appearing on Busted Open after the show, Saints explained his new name and addressed critics of it, saying:

“It’s as close as you’re going to get to Starks. I like the name. I know a lot of people are going to be… it’s going to take time for them to get used to it. I respect that they care so deeply about me that they rebel against the name change.

“But at the same time, I am a product of New Orleans, first and foremost, and I want to pay respect to that as well. I think this is the best of both worlds and that means a lot to me.

“Obviously I think it’s cool to have a piece of home with me. And the person doesn’t change. I’m still that guy, so it is what it is.”

Also announced tonight was Saints’ WWE NXT in-ring debut, which will take place next week when he teams with Je’Von Evans in a tag match against Ethan Page and Wes Lee.

Quote via Wrestling Observer