Two NXT developmental talents have received name changes.
First, Parker Boudreaux has taken to his Instagram account to reveal his new name. He will be competing as Gunnar Harland.
"Soul Reaper… NEW NAME. 'GUNNAR HARLAND.'”
Next up is Bronson Rechsteiner, who changed his name on Twitter as well as his handle. He is going by Rex Steiner from here on. He is the son of Rick Steiner.
Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio reported that many have been impressed by Steiner.
“People are heavily praising the potential of the ‘real athletes’ in camp right now, notably Bronson Rechsteiner, the son of Rick Steiner, and the Kasper Brothers, who were great college wrestlers, as well as Bobby Steveson, the older brother of Gable Steveson.”
Meltzer's report falls in line with WWE's renewed focus on bigger and younger talent as opposed to independent wrestlers. NXT is also said to be returning to its roots as a developmental brand rather than being in the same league as Raw and SmackDown.
WWE recently signed a new crop of developmental talent. It wouldn't come as much of a surprise if some of these athletes also undergo name changes in the coming weeks. We'll be sure to keep you posted.