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Visualize Metta World Peace: Ron Artest Name Change Takes Effect Today

Screenshot from "Get'N Crazy Wit' Ron-Ron" Episode 1

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He may have been born Ronald William Artest, Jr., but basketball star Ron Artest is going to be Metta World Peace as of today, when his anticipated name change goes into effect.Metta, the Lakers forward's new first name, is a Buddhist word that connotes "loving kindness," and "friendliness," according to his publicist. His last name is now World Peace. (Maybe he just wanted all those pageant contestants to be talking about him when they tell the judges what they want in life.)

World Peace's publicist also said:

"Ron Artest, (World Peace) has contemplated the name change for years and always knew that he wanted his last name to be World Peace but it took many years of research and soul searching to find a first name that was both personally meaningful and inspirational."

The name change petition was filed in June, however Artest's arrival at World Peace was postponed because of some overdue traffic tickets. Oops! Ah, well. (World) Peace is NOW!

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