Um.... why are ex-wives still in the picture?

I have been with my boyfriend for 1 1/2 years. We've had our ups and downs (the break down is that he doesn't believe in fairness or equality and wants me to be submissive..) and I'm awesome. Everyone loves and enjoys both of our personalities. Anyhow, we've both been putting a huge amount of effort to help our relationship grow, and so far so good! This "healing" started about a month ago. Three weeks ago his separated wife (she lives at least 10,000 miles away) texted him wanting to know where his address was and that she was going to send him some divorce papers to sign. They also separated 3 years ago (were together 5 years, married 2) and he has gradually started to say things that have gone from mean to nice (he said it was because he needed to say that so that he wouldn't think about the good times). Well, last weekend we wake up in bed together and he asks me about my friend whose house I'm going to later but says his ex-wives name instead of my friend's...then covers it up by saying "oh well she looks like that should be her name". I say bullsh*t! But, I didn't say anything at the time..and not even now, but can anyone tell me if it's normal for your boyfriend or significant other to say their exes name? He also referred to their relationship as (an awesome one that went sour real fast). I don't want to think too much into it - but I'm impatiently waiting for those divorce papers to show up in the mail! Advice or soothing would greatly be appreciated.