Why WWE Took Away Grizzled Young Veterans’ Team Name

The Grizzled Young Veterans were given new names and had their team name dropped on the most recent episode of WWE NXT 2.0. The popular tag team had their last names dropped and were rechristened as “Gibson and Drake.” The team then went on to lose a match against Legado Del Fantasma that had key tag title implications.

After the bout, James Drake shared a WWE digital exclusive video. The team said they wouldn’t be seen again in WWE’s developmental brand. Drake also attached a photo of his empty locker.

It seems like Gibson and Drake are getting a major repackaging. They might even have some time off from television. Dave Meltzer discussed the reason that a well-known team would be so abruptly repackaged on the latest Wrestling Observer Radio.

“They took away the first names and they took away the Grizzled Young Vets name, because it’s their indie name and they don’t want them using it anymore, because they used it on indies. Great reason, huh?”

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Of course, Gibson and Drake weren’t the only WWE stars to have their names changed. Raquel Gonzalez is now Raquel Rodriguez. Walter became Gunther. WWE decided to change things up, and they did so in a big way.

Time will tell what comes next for Gibson and Drake. The days of the Grizzled Young Veterans are over. We will have to see if WWE chooses to keep the team around or decides to split them up somehow.

What do you think of this story? Let us know in the comments!

Transcription by Ringside News