Grayson Waller Says NXT Stars Have Input in Their Names

Grayson Waller is rising up the ranks as one of the most exciting WWE superstars of the modern era, and he never knows when to shut up. Interestingly enough, he has revealed that NXT stars have a say in their names.

Before his NXT days as Grayson Waller, Waller performed under the name Matty Wahlberg in Australia. However, upon transitioning to NXT, he underwent a name change, adopting the persona of Grayson Waller.

While speaking to  Danny Stone & Adam Cailler of the Daily Star, Waller revealed that NXT talent often have input into their names, contrary to what some fans might assume. He emphasized that performers are given the opportunity to suggest names that resonate with them.

In Waller’s case, he chose “Waller” as a nod to his Australian indie wrestling roots, aiming to maintain a connection with his past. Additionally, he drew inspiration from NBA player Grayson Allen, known for his controversial on-court actions. Waller saw parallels between Allen’s demeanor and the persona he wanted to embody, leading him to select the name “Grayson” for his NXT character.

“The cool thing about NXT that people online don’t seem to know, cause they always complain about the NXT names, is that we get to have some say in our names. We basically get to put forward names, which I think is a really cool thing. So, the next time you’re on Twitter/X complaining about someone’s name, just know they probably chose it.

For me, Waller was something that I wanted, something close to Wahlberg to connect to my Australian indie roots. Then, there’s a player in the NBA called Grayson Allen and I think he’s an encapsulation of what Grayson Waller is. He spits on people, he trips people over, that type of vibe. So at the time I felt like Grayson was a perfect fit for me here, and I think it’s worked quite well.”

Grayson Waller even claimed he is superior to The Undertaker recently. Nevertheless, we will have to wait and see what the future holds for the young WWE Superstar, as he remains a huge focus on WWE television.

Are you surprised by this revelation brought forth by Grayson Waller? Sound off in the comments section below!