Chad Ochocinco is no more. The Miami Dolphins receiver has decided to go back to Chad Johnson.
According to NFL.com’s Jeff Darlington, Ochocinco made the change back to Johnson largely because of his recent marriage to Evelyn Lozada.
The Ochocinco News Network (which has not commented on a name change of their own) writes:
“Chad Ochocinco has officially changed his name back to Chad Johnson. The main reason behind the name change was due to his marriage to Evelyn Lozada. The couple preferred Evelyn’s last name to be a real name and not the fun “Ochocinco” character we have come to love.”
CBS reports that Ochocinco started the process a few days after his marriage and made the change official today at Broward County Courthouse.
NFL.com reports that Ochocinco made it clear in his new contract with the Miami Dolphins that he would be playing under the name Chad Johnson this season. And the Dolphins are probably hoping that he plays like Johnson, too.
As Ochocinco, the WR averaged 10 games per season with 674 yards and four touchdowns a year. As Chad Johnson, he averaged 14 games a year, 1,195 yards, and seven touchdowns.
The Post Game reports that the wide-receiver enjoyed his final night as Ochocinco by having dinner with 200 of his Twitter followers.
First 200 people at “Delfini Citta” 8635 wilshire blvd in Beverly Hills… dinner isn’t until 9 so be patient and mingle amongst one another
— Chad Johnson (@ochocinco) July 21, 2012
Johnson reportedly spent over $8000 on his guests.
Are you a fan of Chad Johnson?
