The world of professional wrestling is no stranger to controversies, and the latest one revolves around the rejection of a ring name due to its association with a notorious figure. Gigi Dolin, a prominent WWE superstar, recently shared an intriguing tidbit about the name she initially wanted for her WWE run.
Gigi Dolin had expressed her desire to be called “Gigi Aileen,” confirming this to the Drinks with Johnny podcast. However, this name was swiftly turned down by the WWE officials.
The reason? A perceived connection to Aileen Wuornos, a well-known female serial killer who operated in the US. Wuornos was executed in October 2002 after receiving six life sentences between 1992 and 1993 for her heinous crimes.
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WWE Name Issues: Not the First Instance
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time WWE has steered clear of contentious names. In 2022, plans were in motion to name WALTER “Gunther Stark”.
However, upon realising that Günther Stark was the name of a N*zi military commander during World War II, WWE promptly dropped the “Stark” surname, settling for just “Gunther”.
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Other Controversial Names in WWE
Dolin pointed out that there’s another member in the NXT roster with a potentially controversial name. Joe Gacy’s name might remind some of John Wayne Gacy, an American serial killer who was executed in May 1994.
Dolin humorously remarked that having another superstar with a serial killer-associated name might have been a bit too much for the company.
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The Fine Line of Naming
Names play a crucial role in the branding of a WWE superstar.
They can evoke emotions, set expectations, and build a connection with the audience.
However, it’s essential to tread carefully to avoid unintended associations, especially with controversial figures from history or real life.
FAQ
- Why was Gigi Dolin’s original name rejected?
- Due to its association with Aileen Wuornos, a notorious female serial killer.
- Has WWE rejected other names in the past?
- Yes, in 2022, the company dropped the surname “Stark” from “Gunther Stark” due to its link to a N*zi military commander.
- Are there other WWE superstars with potentially controversial names?
- Yes, Joe Gacy’s name might remind some of the American serial killer, John Wayne Gacy.
- Why are names so important in WWE?
- Names are crucial for branding, evoking emotions, setting expectations, and building a connection with the audience.
