Now he wants to be called a new name. Artest wants to change his name to Metta World Peace. His attorney filed a petition in L.A. Superior Court seeking the name change on Thursday.
According to court documents, the 31-year-old is making the change for personal reasons.
Artest's career has been filled with ups and downs. He helped the /*Lakers*/ win the /*NBA championship*/ a year ago and in April he received an award for outstanding service and dedication to the community.
He has testified before Congress to support mental health legislation.
Artest may be best known for triggering the most notorious brawl in NBA history when he jumped into the stands and attacked a fan while playing for the Indiana Pacers in November 2004. He was suspended for the rest of that season.
"Metta" is a Buddhist word meaning "loving kindness." The petition will be considered at a hearing Aug. 26.
The Associated Press contributed to this story
