WWE Merch Drop Hints at JD McDonagh’s New Nickname

JD McDonagh may finally be getting the attention he deserves—and it’s starting with a brand-new nickname straight from WWE’s official merchandise store.

After spending months lingering in the background of The Judgment Day, McDonagh could be getting a fresh identity on RAW. WWE quietly dropped new merch for the Irish star featuring the name “Iron Lung,” a clear nod to the serious injury he suffered earlier this year.

Back in January, McDonagh punctured his lung mid-match on an episode of RAW—but kept wrestling despite the injury. That brutal moment has since become a legend backstage, with many calling him one of the toughest guys in the locker room. Now, it seems like WWE is finally leaning into that story.

“Iron Lung” gear is now available, and fans are already taking it as a sign that WWE is moving forward with a new character direction for McDonagh. For a guy who’s been seen in mostly short backstage segments in recent months, this could be the change he’s been waiting for.

The new nickname could also signal bigger plans—especially with Judgment Day’s future hanging in the balance. If the group implodes, McDonagh may stick with Finn Bálor in the tag division, or he could break out on his own as a singles competitor, especially if Bálor gets pulled into a feud with Dominik Mysterio.

There’s also ongoing chatter about a possible WWE Draft reshuffling the roster, and McDonagh could benefit from a split if it means stepping out of the faction’s shadow.

Right now, he’s very aware of his position. Like Carlito, McDonagh has been used sparingly and hasn’t had many chances to shine. But with WWE now publicly branding him as the “Iron Lung,” it feels like they’re finally ready to give him something with substance.

JD McDonagh’s time in the shadows may be ending—and this merch drop might be the first real step in proving he’s more than just a background player.