10 Hidden Meanings Behind WWE Superstar Names

9. Boris Zhukov

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WWE/Time Inc.; photograph by Gregory Weil [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

You might think WWE picked Boris Zhukov's name out of their big ushanka-hat of Russian names, and you're probably right. If so, it's a heck of a coincidence that the Soviet schemer just happened to share his surname with Marshal Georgy Zhukov, the USSR's most celebrated World War Two military leader.

Marshal Zhukov masterminded the Battle of Kursk in July 1943, decisively turning the war against Germany. Two years later, he captured Berlin, returning to Russia a hero. He was perhaps just a little too popular for Stalin's liking, so promptly demoted.

Unlike his namesake, Boris - actually a Virginian called James Harrell - isn't remembered for any famous victories, though the few he managed were equally Pyrrhic - for the viewer, anyway.

 
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Editorial Team
Editorial Team

Benjamin was born in 1987, and is still not dead. He variously enjoys classical music, old-school adventure games (they're not dead), and walks on the beach (albeit short - asthma, you know). He's currently trying to compile a comprehensive history of video game music, yet denies accusations that he purposefully targets niche audiences. He's often wrong about these things.