US Rugby Star Ilona Maher Eyes WWE Future While Committing to 2025 World Cup

Ilona Maher, a prominent U.S. rugby star and Olympic bronze medalist, is gaining widespread recognition not only for her athletic achievements but also for her rising social media presence and ventures into entertainment. While Maher remains dedicated to rugby, representing the U.S. at the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup and playing for Bristol Bears, she is exploring opportunities beyond the sport, including professional wrestling with WWE, which she has been approached by and considers due to its financial incentives and crossover appeal. Inspired by athletes turned entertainers like Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson and John Cena, Maher envisions a future blending sports, wrestling, and acting, though she is cautious about the transition given the scripted nature of wrestling and the commitment required. Despite these interests, she emphasizes that rugby is her priority and hopes fans continue to recognize her for her athletic contributions. Her journey from a multi-sport high school athlete in Vermont to a global rugby star and potential entertainment figure highlights her versatility and growing influence. Maher's story reflects a new model of athlete-celebrity, leveraging sports success into broader media and entertainment opportunities while maintaining competitive focus.