Ricky Saints Explains Meaning Behind His New WWE Name

Ricky Starks surprised fans with his unexpected debut on NXT last week, leading to speculation about his name since WWE never referred to him as Ricky Starks. During the February 18 episode of NXT, it was officially revealed that he would now be known as Ricky Saints and now Saints has explained the meaning behind his new name.

While speaking on Busted Open After Dark with Bully Ray, Ricky Saints talked about his new name and moving on from AEW. He knows fans might need time to get used to it, but he chose “Saints” to honor his hometown, New Orleans. The name represents the city’s culture, including its football team and French influence, while still sounding similar to “Starks.”

Even with the name change, Saints says he’s still the same performer and is proud to carry a part of his home with him. He feels the new name is a good mix of WWE’s style and his own identity. Instead of seeing it as a big change, he views it as a way to stay connected to his roots.

“It’s just a throwback to — it’s not even a throwback because New Orleans Saints were still around but, Saints in itself is pretty indicative of New Orleans regardless if you think of the football team, if you think of the French influence, things of that nature and its as close as you’re gonna get to Starks. So, I like the name. I know a lot of people are gonna be — it’s gonna take time for them to get used to it and 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 respects to that as well and so, that’s what it was.

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It would have been different if I was named, you know, Ricky Genevieve or something like that, right?… Yes, something so off or if my whole thing was changed but, I think this is the best of both worlds and something that means a lot to me too. 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.”

Ricky Saints is now fully focused on his NXT career and he will have his first match in NXT next week, teaming with Je’Von Evans against Ethan Page and Wes Lee. It remains to be seen how Saints will be booked in the coming weeks, as fans are definitely excited for his future in NXT, where he can truly shine.

How do you feel about Ricky Saints’ new name? Do you think it’s a fitting tribute to his New Orleans roots, or would you have preferred he kept “Ricky Starks”? Share your thoughts in the comments below!