Real names/Previously used names

Scott,


WWE change people’s names so they can own the rights etc, right? What’s the deal with Samoa Joe using his? I can see it being because he’s had bigger exposure in his career, unlike a Steen or Devitt, so why fight it at this point of his career.

Also, what’s the deal with Ciampa and Gargano? Is it just a short term thing so it doesn’t matter what name they use or are they going to be an exception to the rule? If so, why?

Thanks as always!!

​The deal with Joe was that he was never intended to be a full-time guy and was only going to work occasional shots for NXT while doing indy dates. So they couldn’t really get him to change his name, since he was still doing ROH shows. But then ROH suddenly got national TV and WWE pretty much panicked and immediately signed Joe to an exclusive deal to keep him off Destination America. Otherwise they would have had him change his name just like Devitt did. ​

And I’m assuming Ciampa is just a one-shot type of deal. I haven’t heard of either of them actually getting signed to developmental. I actually like the idea of bringing in "big name" indy guys to lend NXT extra street cred with the ROH nerds. Each time they cry about their favorite selling out, HHH gains a little more power.