why did tommy robinson change his name

Tommy Robinson changed his name from his birth name Stephen Christopher Yaxley-Lennon to disguise his identity and past criminal history. The pseudonym "Tommy Robinson" was originally used to hide his real identity and protect his family, with some sources suggesting it was also to disguise his Irish roots because the name Lennon is Irish. The name "Tommy Robinson" also references a prominent member of a football hooligan crew, which gave a certain persona or image. His real name was exposed later, but he continued to be known as Tommy Robinson in public and political life.