Why Rangers are called Teddy Bears - true meaning behind the nickname

Rangers are one of the biggest clubs in the whole of the UK, and are well-known across the world.

The Gers occupy the blue side of Glasgow as one of the Scottish Premiership's big two, and are known by many different names, both affectionate and derogatory, across the land.

Rangers have tasted a lot of success over the years with 55 league titles to their name, but this has dried up in recent times, with the last triumph coming in 2020.

Russell Martin is now the manager at Rangers, but he has work to do to win over the fanbase, who are commonly known as 'Teddy Bears.'

Teddy Bears nickname originated in the 1970s

Although Ibrox is in Glasgow, the nickname for Rangers fans originated using cockney rhyming slang, a concept born in East London.

This is where names and words are referred to using different phrases, which rhyme with the original word.

• Cockney rhyming slang was invented in East London during the 19th century, as a means of communication between working class Londoners avoiding the authorities.

In a Glaswegian accent, 'Teddy Bears' rhymes with 'Rangers, and the concept of rhyming slang was used to then refer to the fans in this way.

They are now often called 'The Bears' and the 'Gers,' simply a shortened version of the name, and these terms are used affectionately by Rangers fans all over the world.

• Read more: A full list of trophies won by Rangers down the years

Rangers ultras are called the 'Union Bears'

Rangers' main ultras fan group have played upon the Teddy Bears nickname, and go by the name of the 'Union Bears.'

The Union Bears were formed in 2007, and are responsible for the huge tifo and pyro displays often seen in the Copland Road stand at Ibrox.

The 'Union' part of their name comes from Rangers' alignment with British identity, and are in support of the union of the United Kingdom.

There have been several controversial incidents surrounding the group, which have earned the club collective punishment after some banners and displays were deemed unacceptable, with UEFA occasionally getting involved on European nights.

The outspoken group's section is the loudest part of Ibrox and have previously used their displays to hit out at club management, but they do make a positive impact in helping the entire stadium's atmosphere roar, especially in the biggest games.

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