SUGA has clarified the true origin of his stage name, revealing that it draws inspiration from boxing legend Sugar Ray Leonard, not the widely believed basketball term “shooting guard.”
The revelation came during a recent interview with WIRED published on April 6, 2026, as part of BTS’s promotional rollout for their album ARIRANG. During the segment, the group responded to frequently searched questions about the band and its members.
When asked about the meaning behind SUGA’s name, fellow members V and Jungkook initially answered “shooting guard,” echoing the long-standing explanation tied to basketball. SUGA, however, stepped in to correct them on camera.
“I can finally explain this now,” SUGA said. “It’s not (shooting guard). It was annoying to explain, so I just said that, But actually, it’s Sugar Ray Leonard.”
He went on to explain that the nickname reflects a broader connection to combat sports, where technically skilled fighters are sometimes referred to as “Suga.” SUGA credited Bang Si-hyuk, founder of BTS’ label, with suggesting the name due to his passion for boxing.
He explained, “There’s a legendary boxer named Sugar Ray Leonard, and I didn’t come up with it. Mr. Bang (Si-Hyuk) suggested it because he liked boxing so much. So people who have technical striking skills, the specialists are called ‘Suga.’”
SUGA also pointed to Sean O’Malley, who uses a similar nickname in mixed martial arts, highlighting its broader popularity across combat sports. The explanation came as a surprise even within the group, with J-Hope acknowledging during the interview that it was the first time he had heard the full story.
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SUGA admitted he had long leaned on the “shooting guard” explanation because it was simpler to communicate, allowing the misconception to persist over time.
The basketball connection was further reinforced by his visible ties to the sport, including appearances at games and involvement in league-related activities, which made the narrative feel even more plausible to fans.
BTS’ SUGA Linked To Potential Oakland Athletics Minority Stake
Separate from his music career, SUGA has also been connected to a potential investment in MLB. Reports published in March 2026 indicate that he is part of a consortium exploring a minority stake in the Oakland Athletics.
Former MLB pitcher Chan Ho Park leads the group and includes several Korean business figures. The proposed deal, valued at approximately $70 million, would reportedly secure a stake of about 2% to 3% in the franchise. The transaction remains subject to MLB approval.
The investment aligns with broader efforts by the Athletics to strengthen their financial position ahead of a planned relocation to Las Vegas and the development of a new $1.75 billion stadium targeted for completion in 2028.
SUGA’s involvement reflects a growing trend of crossover between global entertainment figures and professional sports investments. It also coincides with BTS’s collaboration with Major League Baseball during its 2026 opening week, which featured music from the group’s ARIRANG album alongside league promotions.
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The reported deal highlights increasing links between K-pop and major sports organizations, as artists expand their influence beyond entertainment into business and equity partnerships.
