Source: The Wrestling Observer Newsletter
WWE giving Joe Hennig the name of Michael McGillicutty on the new season of NXT has many in the company baffled, especially since they acknowledged him as the son of Curt Hennig during a video package that aired. According to friends of Joe’s, he was under the impression that as recent as a few weeks ago that he would be using the Hennig name on the main roster. Ever since coming to developmental, Hennig has been told to look and work like his late father because he would be using the Hennig name.
It’s no secret that WWE likes complete control of their talent names, but to give a guy like David Otunga his real name on the roster and give Hennig a gimmicked name, makes no sense to most. The name Hennig would obviously mean a lot more to wrestling fans than a name like Otunga.
We’ll see what happens with the gimmick.
WWE NXT Notes: Jaida Parker vs. Nattie in Submission Match Set for NXT Heatwave 2026, Kali Armstrong Beats Zaria In Singles Match & Gets Added to NXT Women’s N.A. and WWE Speed Women’s Titles Unification Match at NXT Heatwave, 9/1 Show Card
WWE: Drew McIntyre WWE Abscense & Return Plans Update, Tag Team Name Revealed for Shinsuke Nakamura & Kyoki, Adam Pearce on Him Having No Interest In Potential In-Ring Return Following Nick Aldis In-Ring Return at SummerSlam 2026
WWE Shareholder Lawsuit Against Vince McMahon Over His WWE Return in 2023 & Sale to Endeavor Update –
