Metta World Peace Says He’s Not Changing Name Back to Ron Artest

Heading into the 2011-12 NBA season, Ron Artest decided to make a bold move by changing his name to Metta World Peace.

The news of the name change surprised quite a few people as many didn’t know the reasoning behind it all initially, but it wasn’t uncommon for professional athletes in the NBA or NFL to make the change with World B. Free and Chad Ochocinco being prime examples.

After a year of supporting the new name, rumors started to circulate of World Peace going back to Artest. Apparently, those rumors were false with the veteran forward telling all his followers on Twitter that he has no intention to do so:

Unlike the former Miami Dolphins wide receiver Chad Ochocinco going back to Chad Johnson, World Peace has become content with his new name and for the time being has no plans to switch back.

As a quick refresher, Artest changed his name to Metta World Peace for the following reason in a statement released back in September of last year:

“Changing my name was meant to inspire and bring youth together all around the world.”

The word “Metta” refers to a Buddhist word for loving kindness and friendliness towards all. Since the brawl he was involved while a member of the Indiana Pacers back in 2004 that resulted in a 83-game suspension, World Peace has made a valiant effort to change his ways on and off the court. It has been a bumpy road at times, but the defensive-minded star has changed many people’s perception of him in a very positive way.

The upcoming NBA season may potentially be a promising one for World Peace as he will remain a starter and will benefit immensely from the presence of Steve Nash and Dwight Howard on the floor. It will be a make-or-break season for World Peace with plenty of entertaining off-the-court antics sure to follow.

__________________________________________________________________________________
Make sure to check out today’s edition of Let’s Be Honest – starring Pritesh Shah!
__________________________________________________________________________________

[lakersnation_player file=” http://youtu.be/VIdzevPT7Nw” autostart=”false”]

You May Also Like

Shaquille O’Neal Was Told Lakers Would Trade Him If They Lost 2004 NBA Finals Vs. Pistons

Shaquille O’Neal’s time with the Los Angeles Lakers is one of the most well-documented dynasties of all time, mainly due…

VIDEO: Orlando Magic’s “Forget You” Parody Leaves Dwight Howard in All Smiles

What better way to get over a break-up than through song? Seems…

When Pau Couldn’t, Bynum Showed He Could

Going in to the series with New Orleans, the Lakers obvious advantage…

Kobe Bryant Points To Effort and Toughness In Win Over Memphis

The Los Angeles Lakers got a much needed victory Tuesday night over…