“What’s in a name?” Maybe everything, especially when viewed through the lens of politics. UFC lightweight contender Bobby Green made headlines last year when he announced he had legally changed his name to “King” just before his bout with English sensation Paddy Pimblett at UFC 304 in Manchester. As he stepped into the spotlight, Green boldly declared, “It’s dope that the King returns to England,” a statement that was met with mixed reactions—some embraced it, while others mocked it.
For Green, adopting the name “King” was the realization of a childhood dream. He explained, “I tried to do it a couple of years ago, but I got denied.” However, after paying a $1,500 fee, the authorities finally approved the change. Despite his new moniker, “King Green” has faced challenges inside the Octagon, with a string of losses. Now, a new controversy has arisen: a YouTuber has suggested that the California export may have violated the law by changing his name. Is there any validity to this claim? Let’s explore the details.
Did King Green violate the law with his name change?
Although the world is often seen as a place of freedom, with political leaders advocating for liberty, many authorities still impose numerous restrictions, including rules about naming children. In the U.S., despite being called “the land of the free,” law prohibits some names. For example, naming your child after figures like Jesus Christ, or Santa Claus, or titles such as “King” and “Queen” is not allowed. It’s surprising that billionaires like Elon Musk can name their children “X Æ A-12″ or “Exa, Tau Techno Mechanicus,” while such names remain off-limits for others.
So, how did King Green manage to change his name to “King”? According to YouTuber Odd Chris, “Most sources suggest that banning such names is intended to prevent placing excessive responsibility on a child and to avoid bullying during their younger years. However, since Bobby Green is an adult, changing his name to ‘King’ isn’t likely to drastically affect his mindset—other than making a bold statement.”
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JUNE 20: (L-R) Bobby Green punches Clay Guida in their lightweight bout during the UFC Fight Night event at UFC APEX on June 20, 2020, in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)
It’s also worth noting that titles like “King” and “Queen” have historically been associated with colonialism in many parts of the world. The end of colonial rule in America may explain why names associated with royalty, such as “Lord,” “King,” and “Queen,” remain banned in the U.S., similar to Great Britain.
From rags to riches: King Green and his MMA journey
King Green’s childhood was filled with hardship. By the age of five, he had become a foster child after his father was imprisoned, and his mother, struggling with addiction, was unable to care for him. Despite these challenges, the American’s resilience and determination enabled him to rise above his circumstances. He found solace in collegiate wrestling, which eventually helped him transition into MMA.
As of 2025, King Green’s career has spanned over a decade, beginning in 2009 with Affliction, followed by Strikeforce, and eventually joining the UFC. With nearly 50 MMA bouts under his belt, including a draw and a no-contest, Green, now 38, fights not for titles but for legacy, fame, and financial security.
In a recent interview with ESPN MMA’s Charly Arnolt, the California export opened up about the inspiration behind his name change: “I come from a broken background where I didn’t have a mother, didn’t have a father, all those different things. I was in foster care. I want people to know you can come from ground zero, having nothing, being homeless, and still build whatever it is you’re striving for. Whatever you want to become, I don’t want anyone to feel like they can’t do it.”
Now, with his eyes set on continuing his journey, tonight at UFC 313, King Green steps into the Octagon against rising Brazilian talent Mauricio Ruffy at the T-Mobile Arena. Given Green’s wealth of experience, the question remains: can the 28-year-old Brazilian sensation hold his own against the seasoned veteran? Only time will tell. Stay tuned for updates.
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