Popular star explains personal significance behind WWE name change
SmackDown Superstar reveals personal connection to Korean-inspired ring name, bridging family heritage with WWE career evolution.
SmackDown Superstar reveals Korean-inspired ring name stems from childhood nickname given by her mother, highlighting cultural connection.
Michin opened up about the origins of her current WWE ring name, which she adopted after joining The O.C. in late 2022. The former Mia Yim explained that the name change emerged naturally from the group’s tradition of using nicknames, particularly during their time competing in Japan.
The name holds deep personal significance for the SmackDown Superstar, connecting to her Korean heritage and family history. Michin shared insight into the meaningful choice during her appearance on Casual Conversations with The Classic.
The 35-year-old detailed how her mother used the term, which means “crazy” in Korean, as a nickname for both her and her sister during their childhood. When presented with the opportunity to select a nickname upon joining The O.C., this family connection made the choice clear.
Reflecting on her decision, Michin offered a personal perspective on maintaining the name despite fan questions about returning to her previous moniker.
I know that The O.C. has their own [nicknames]. Especially when they wrestled in Japan, they had their own nicknames and stuff. So when I came back and joined them, they were like, ‘You need a nickname. Like, that’s just part of the crew.’ So, Michin is something that I’ve had since I was a kid, from my mom. She would call me and my sister crazy, obviously. So, to me, it was my choice picking this name. A lot of people ask why I don’t go back to Mia Yim, and I’m okay with that, too. But I want everyone to know that Michin is special to me because of my mom.
Championship aspirations fuel Michin’s 2025 outlook
Following her recent United States Championship tournament final match against Chelsea Green at Saturday Night’s Main Event, Michin has set clear objectives for the coming year. During an appearance on Wesh 2 News, she shared her perspective on her competitive journey and future goals.
The former O.C. member reflected on her progress and championship ambitions in a candid statement.
So, I posted this right after my match at Saturday Night’s Main Event, where 2024 was my year of recognition, where it was for people to recognize me and what I can fully do. 2025 is going to be redemption where I’m coming after mine, at the end of the day. I was this close to getting that US Championship, and I could smell it, and now that I got that scent, I’m not going to stop before I get it.