Ron Artest explains the decision to change his name to Metta World Peace. On Friday morning, September 16 after a brief hearing, LosAngeles County Superior Court commissioner approved his request to change his name from Ron Artest to Metta World Peace.

“Changing my name was meant to inspire and bring youth together all around the world,” he stated. “I’m glad that it is now official” says about his new unusual name.

“Dancing with the Stars” season 13 contestant Artest’s publicist, Courtney Barnes, said the athlete had been thinking about the switch for a long time, “but it took many years of research and soul-searching to find a first name that was both personally meaningful and inspirational.” Metta, which would be the first name, is a Buddhist term that means loving kindness and friendliness toward others.

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