Identity Behind One New WWE Trademarked Name Revealed

WWE’s recent trademark filings are already starting to connect to real talent, giving a clearer picture of who’s behind at least one of the new names.

The company filed trademarks on February 18 for “Tristan Angels” and “Dorian Van Dux,” sparking speculation that new characters or rebranded Superstars were on the way. Now, one of those identities has been confirmed.

Tristan Angels is the new ring name for Nathaniel Cranton, who previously competed as Nathan Angel before signing with WWE in October 2025. Since joining NXT, he had been working live events under his real name, but that has now changed.

Cranton has updated his social media profiles to reflect the Tristan Angels name, confirming that WWE’s trademark filing is already being put into use as part of his on-screen identity moving forward.

The second name, Dorian Van Dux, remains a mystery for now. WWE has not revealed who will be using it, but given the timing of the filing, it’s likely tied to another Performance Center talent or a future debut.

Cranton was part of a broader signing class announced by WWE NXT in late 2025, which included several international prospects. Among them were Cyril Coquerelle, who has since debuted on NXT television as Elio LeFleur, and Mike Derudder, formerly known on the independent scene as Mike D Vecchio. Other names in that group included Jaime Garcia (Zozaya) and Dusan Novakovic.

With Tristan Angels now confirmed as a new WWE identity, attention turns to Dorian Van Dux and who will ultimately take on that name as WWE continues to shape its next generation of talent. Ringside News will keep you updated.

Do you think Tristan Angels is a strong new identity for Nathaniel Cranton, and who do you see ending up as Dorian Van Dux? Drop your thoughts below.