Former NJPW star Jeff Cobb has officially adopted a new identity in WWE, and fans are taking notice.
Image via WWE
In what appears to be a classic WWE rebranding move, Jeff Cobb, who debuted at
Backlash 2025
under his real name, has now been given the ring name
JC Mateo
. The change was confirmed on the latest episode of SmackDown, where
Solo Sikoa
introduced him by the new moniker in the show's opening segment.
WWE has since validated the name switch by uploading the segment to YouTube, tagging Cobb as JC Mateo. Interestingly, this update came just days after the company filed a trademark for 'JC Mateo' on May 10 - the very night Cobb first appeared on WWE television.
A shocking debut and a divided bloodline
Cobb made headlines at Backlash by interfering in the United States Championship match, helping Jacob Fatu retain his title against LA Knight. His debut aligned him with the new-look Bloodline faction, currently led by Solo Sikoa.
— WrestleOps (@WrestleOps)
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Giao dịch vàng CFDs với sàn môi giới tin cậy
IC Markets
Tìm hiểu thêm
Undo
However, friction within the group became evident during SmackDown. Jacob Fatu appeared uncertain about Cobb's sudden inclusion and seemed emotionally distant from Sikoa. The tension escalated when Solo pressed Fatu to express the brotherly affection he once did, only for the moment to be interrupted by LA Knight attacking Cobb, now JC Mateo, in a retaliatory strike.
What's in a name? Fans spot Filipino connection
WWE's decision to rebrand Jeff Cobb sparked strong reactions online — not for the name itself, but for its perceived cultural nod. Many fans were quick to point out that 'JC Mateo' has a distinctly Filipino flavor, which aligns with Cobb's own heritage. Cobb, born in Honolulu, is of Filipino descent through his mother, Elaine, who hails from Guam via Filipino immigrant parents.
'it's a very filipino sounding name and he is filipino so it makes sense that's probably why they changed it,' one fan commented on social media, while another quipped, 'This name sounds like he's about to drop an OPM album.'
This connection has given fans an added reason to rally behind the new character, blending Cobb's powerful in-ring style with a nod to his background.
With a new name and powerful allies, JC Mateo seems poised for a significant push in WWE's evolving Bloodline saga. But internal tensions and unfinished business with LA Knight hint at a bumpy road ahead.
As WWE leans into its blend of drama and identity reinvention, the reintroduction of Cobb as JC Mateo serves as a reminder: in the squared circle, who you are can change in a heartbeat - but what you do next is what counts.
Get
IPL 2025
match
schedules
,
squads
,
points table
, and live scores for
CSK
,
MI
,
RCB
,
KKR
,
SRH
,
LSG
,
DC
,
GT
,
PBKS
, and
RR
. Check the latest
IPL Orange Cap
and
Purple Cap
standings.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
5 hours ago
- Time of India
The Miz's WWE future in doubt amid social media silence and veteran releases
Image via WWE WWE has shocked fans recently with the release of veteran superstars R-Truth and Carlito. Both wrestlers were beloved figures who had long tenures with the company. Their departures came as contracts expired, sparking concerns among fans about the company's direction. R-Truth's exit was especially surprising given that he headlined Saturday Night's Main Event just days before parting ways with WWE. The roster shake-up led to immediate speculation about who might be next. All eyes quickly turned to The Miz, a seasoned WWE star known for his charisma and media presence. The Miz scrubs WWE references from social media In a move that has fans talking, The Miz removed all mentions of WWE from his social media profiles shortly after R-Truth's release. Once boasting the title 'the most must-see WWE Superstar,' his X bio now reads simply: 'the most must-read Twitter account of all time.' Moreover, he unfollowed WWE's official account, fueling speculation that his WWE status might be in jeopardy. The Miz's online behavior is unusual for someone still fully engaged with WWE, especially given his typical role as a vocal promoter and ambassador of the brand. Wrestling insider Bryan Alvarez weighed in on the situation during a recent episode of Wrestling Observer Live . Alvarez confirmed that The Miz is currently involved with Amazon Prime's reboot of American Gladiators, which may explain some of his recent absence from WWE programming. However, Alvarez added, 'I just think it would be a pretty lame thing to do if you're not being released - when everyone else has been released. So where there's smoke, there could be fire.' Such comments have fans wondering if WWE is quietly preparing to phase out the 44-year-old superstar. Despite the growing rumours, WWE has not confirmed any plans regarding The Miz's contract. Reports from wrestling news outlets indicate that The Miz has not been officially informed about any potential release or non-renewal. Still, with WWE focusing on refreshing its roster and moving on from long-tenured stars, uncertainty around The Miz's future remains high. Since signing with WWE in 2004 and debuting on the main roster in 2006, The Miz has been a consistent presence in professional wrestling. He holds two WWE Championships and nine tag team titles, marking him as one of the company's most successful performers. Whether The Miz's social media moves signal a temporary break or the beginning of the end of his WWE career, fans will be watching closely for updates.
Time of India
5 hours ago
- Time of India
3 reasons WWE needs to bring back R-Truth after shocking release
Image via WWE R-Truth's WWE release came as a huge shocker for the entire wrestling industry. R-Truth proved himself to be a true team player for WWE for more than a decade. He signed with the company in 2008 and captivated the audience with his comedic timing, impressive in-ring acumen, and ability to garner attention from the WWE Universe. In June 2025, he announced via his social media that the promotion would not be renewing his contract, which came as a huge disappointment. This came after Truth was involved in a program with the Undisputed WWE Champion, John Cena . The duo even had a spectacular match at WWE Saturday Night's Main Event, where loud cheers for Truth were evident. Following the aftermath of his departure from WWE, here are the three reasons the Stamford-based promotion should bring him back: 3. His comedic antics were a huge asset One of the top attributes of R-Truth's WWE onscreen character was his comedic thrills. The former WWE United States Champion could break out a laughter riot anytime he appeared on WWE television programming. From his hilarious segments involving the WWE 24/7 title to making stars like Brock Lesnar laugh, only R-Truth had that talent, which was a huge asset for WWE that they shockingly discarded. 2. R-Truth has been a longtime veteran who can still perform at the highest level Much like many names like Randy Orton and Sheamus, R-Truth had been a longtime veteran in the global juggernaut. He took part in every storyline WWE asked him to do and was a true team player for the company. Moreover, unlike his last foe John Cena who has admitted that he could no longer perform at the highest level in the ring, Truth, being five years older to him in real-life, still can go in the ring at his best, making him an essential addition to the WWE roster from a physical standpoint too. 1. Outpouring support from fans and peers received ever since he was released The primary reason WWE should reconsider releasing R-Truth and sign him to a new deal is the overwhelming support he received after announcing his departure. Not only the large wrestling fan base, but his fellow peers in WWE also voiced their support for his contributions. Moreover, multiple chants for Truth broke out on RAW after the news of his release came out. With everyone wanting to see him back, it would surely be best for business. Also read: Mariah May WWE NXT debut: 3 feuds that could instantly make her a star
Time of India
6 hours ago
- Time of India
WWE Money in the Bank 2025 predictions: 3 superstars who can win the Women's ladder match
Image via WWE WWE Money in the Bank will feature a high-stakes ladder match for the women's division, like every year. The next WWE Premium Live Event set to captivate the fans each year is Money in the Bank. This year, the event will take place on Saturday, June 7th, at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, California. The venue last played host to Monday Night RAW's debut on Netflix and will return for the PLE this week. One of the top highlights of the show will feature the Women's Money in the Bank ladder match. Six competitors will attempt to climb the ladder and retrieve the briefcase hanging above the ring. The winner would receive a Women's title match at any time and place of their choice. With the power possessed inside the MITB briefcase that can change careers, here are the three top contenders who can win the match this year: 3. Roxanne Perez The year 2024 in WWE NXT belonged to none other than Roxanne Perez. The Prodigy carried the developmental territory on her back as the dominant NXT Women's Champion. She signed with Monday Night RAW two weeks ago and made a huge impact on her first night itself by qualifying for the Money in the Bank ladder match. With a year of success under her belt and highly popular among the fans, Perez stands a big chance to climb the ladder and grab the coveted briefcase. 2. Giulia The WWE Universe speculated for months before Giulia arrived in WWE NXT last year. Within months of her debut, The Beautiful Madness made a huge impact with top-tier matches and won the NXT Women's title at the start of 2025. With less than a year since her arrival, Giulia has already become a part of SmackDown and qualified for the Money in the Bank match in her debut performance on the blue brand, making her a top contender to emerge victorious at the PLE. 1. Stephanie Vaquer Much like Giulia, her international sensation counterpart, Stephanie Vaquer had a very similar road. The Dark Angel, within months of her NXT debut, was holding both the NXT Women's and North American titles at the same time. Her short yet remarkable tenure landed her a spot on Monday Night RAW last week and she also qualified for the Women's Money in the Bank ladder match. With a huge ovation received on her first night on RAW and all the success backing her caliber, La Primera can be the one to win MITB this Saturday. Also read: Mariah May WWE NXT debut: 3 feuds that could instantly make her a star
