Lakers' Artest Changing Name to 'Metta World Peace.' (Seriously)

By Cam Martin 

Sports fans might soon be reading a name in game recaps that conjures distant memories of World B. Free and recent reminders that Chad Johnson is now known as Chad Ochocinco. Yes, another bored, high-profile athlete has decided to change his name. This time it’s Lakers star Ron Artest, the eccentric, oftentimes combustible small forward who was at the center of the infamous brawl between the Pacers and Pistons in 2004 and who donated his 2010 Lakers championship ring to charity. Artest has filed a petition to change his name to Metta World Peace. In case you forgot, Metta is a Buddhist term meaning “loving kindness.” World Peace means peace on Earth.

Artest’s attorney filed a petition in Los Angeles Superior Court on Thursday seeking the change. Artest, 31, was born Ronald William Artest Jr. In the court documents, Artest cites personal reasons for wanting to make the change.

An Aug. 26 court date was set to consider the petition by the Artest currently known as Ron.

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