Entertainment
Sasha Banks’ mum blasted ‘porn star’ WWE name before big debut
Sasha Banks has revealed her mum’s reaction to her WWE name – and it’s safe to say she didn’t approve.
The former SmackDown Women’s Champion – whose real name is Mercedes Kaestner-Varnado – has opened up on the origins of her wrestling moniker, and her mother Judith’s X-rated response.
Appearing on the Just Women’s Sports podcast, Sasha said: ‘The name came really just randomly.
‘They asked me to give a long list of names, and I always remember putting Sasha with a different last name and Banks with a different first name. And I remember just debuting at a house show for WWE and I needed a name. I can’t just be Mercedes KV.
‘Finally Sara Del Rey came into the room and said, “we got you a name.” I go, “Oh what is it?” She goes, “It’s Sasha Banks”. I’m like, “Oh! I love it. That sounds really really good!” ‘
Even though the star herself – who recently laid down a challenge for Floyd Mayweather – was delighted, her mum Judith was less then impressed.
Sasha added: ‘I texted my mom. I said “Hey mom, I got a WWE name. It’s Sasha Banks”.
‘She ended up calling me and goes, “That’s a porn star name! Tell them to change it!” I go, “Mom I can’t tell WWE to change the name.” That’s how my mom is.’
However, Judith has ‘come around’ as time’s gone on, and she’s fully embracing the name at this point.
The Legit Boss said: ‘She’s come around to the name. She’s like Mama Banks now.’
Banks hasn’t been featured as heavily on WWE programming since losing her title to Bianca Belair in their historic WrestleMania 37 main event.
However, it’s not all bad for the superstar, as her role in The Mandalorian – which sees her credited as Mercedes Varnado – has her in the running for a potential Emmy.
The nomination-round voting is underway until June 28, with the final shortlist set to be unveiled a couple of weeks later.
She’s currently listed on the ballot for her performance as Koska Reeves in Chapter 16: The Rescue – and the WWE Universe will have their fingers crossed!
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