Mike Santana's New WWE Ring Name Cruz Montana Trademark Filed

WWE filed a trademark application for the name “Cruz Montana” with the United States Patent and Trademark Office on July 24, three days after independent‑circuit star Mike Santana made his NXT debut on July 21. The filing covers professional wrestling performances, live events, television and streaming broadcasts, online fan sites and related commercial services.

Santana appeared on the NXT episode confronting champion Tony D’Angelo after the title match, but he was not identified by name. On the following episode he confirmed that he will speak on NXT under the Cruz Montana persona, indicating WWE plans to rebrand him. WWE has not officially announced the new ring name, and trademark filings do not guarantee the name will be used.