AceShowbiz - Nicki Minaj and her husband, Kenneth Petty, joyfully welcomed their son in September 2020. Known to her fans as "Papa Bear," Minaj has kept many details about him under wraps, including his actual name. During a recent Instagram Live, the rapper offered a tidbit of her initial plan to name her son after the incarcerated Jamaican dancehall icon, Ninja Man.

"When I was pregnant, all I did was watch Ninja Man all day," Minaj explained, to which Kenneth Petty visibly disagreed. "I think I told you guys I was going to call the baby Ninja. My husband didn't really want me to call the baby Ninja, but I thought it was dope, you know. I had asked people around me and they said yes. I don't see anything wrong with it. You know, Ninja."

This isn't the first time Minaj has spoken about her son's nickname origins. In an interview with Vogue last November, she elaborated on her fondness for nicknames and discussed the evolution of "Papa Bear."

"I've always been a nickname person," she expressed. "I give everyone I love these nicknames, normally. He actually had a couple nicknames. His first nickname while he was in my stomach was 'Bubba.' When he came out, it just transformed into 'Papa Bear.' I can't explain it, but when I looked at him, that's what I thought."

Despite frequent speculation, Minaj has categorically denied that her son's name is Jacob. However, her revelation about naming him "Ninja" has intrigued fans and added to the mystery surrounding "Papa Bear's" real name. She almost went through with it, admitting, "You know what his name was supposed to be? I think I might still change it."

Ultimately, Nicki chose a name that resonated with her after significant consideration, saying, "I changed it at the last minute." Her protective nature over her son's privacy is evident, yet these glimpses into her decision-making process reveal the special bond she shares with her little one.

As fans continue to speculate, one thing is certain: Nicki Minaj's "Papa Bear" remains both a beloved mystery and a testament to the unique love and creativity she brings to her family.