Athletes Have Changed Their Legal Name…And So Can You

There are many athletes who, for various reasons, have changed their legal names.

Basketball star Ron Artest changed his legal name to Metta World Peace to “inspire and bring youth together all around the world.”

Football player Chad Johnson became Chad Ochocinco in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, reflecting his jersey number, 85.

In 1985, Miami Dolphin Mark Duper took on his lifelong nickname and legally became Mark Super Duper.

Mixed Martial Artist and contestant on Season 6 of The Ultimate Fighter John Koppenhaver legally changed his name to War Machine to secure his ability to use the name in fight promotions.

If you are an athlete in Florida, or just a Florida resident who wants to change your legal name, you usually can do so as long as your civil rights are not suspended (for example, by being convicted of a felony and not applying to have your rights restored) and so long as you are not changing your name for an illegal or ulterior purpose.

If you have questions about changing your legal name in Florida, schedule a consultation with Family Diplomacy at (813) 443-0615 or fill out our contact form.