US Rugby Star Ilona Maher Eyes Hollywood After WWE Offer
Ilona Maher, the dynamic US rugby star and social media powerhouse, is weighing an exciting career pivot—professional wrestling with WWE. The 29-year-old athlete, fresh from competing in the Women’s Rugby World Cup, revealed she’s been approached by WWE and is considering the opportunity as a potential pathway to Hollywood.
With nearly nine million followers across Instagram, TikTok, and X, Maher is no stranger to the spotlight. Her charm and athleticism have already earned her a spot on Dancing with the Stars and the title of 2025’s Best Breakthrough Athlete at ESPN’s Espy Awards. Now, the multi-talented star sees WWE as another platform to showcase her versatility.
From the Rugby Pitch to the Wrestling Ring
Maher joked about her potential WWE persona, playfully suggesting the ring name Maher-vellous. Yet, behind the humor lies genuine ambition. She views wrestling as a stepping stone toward acting, inspired by WWE legends like Dwayne The Rock Johnson and John Cena, who seamlessly transitioned from the ring to blockbuster films.
I would love to get into the acting space and the scripted space, Maher told BBC Sport. A Dwayne Johnson or John Cena progression—that’s the dream. It would be exciting to see my body type on screen. Maybe I’d start small—like a hot assassin or something!
Despite her Hollywood aspirations, Maher remains fiercely loyal to rugby. Ahead of the USA’s World Cup opener against England, she reaffirmed her identity as an athlete first.
So many people forget, but I am a rugby player above all else, she said. Social media is a side hustle—rugby is my passion. It bothers me when people say, ‘Are you going to watch the Instagrammer play?’ I’ve won a bronze medal, been to two Olympics, and I’m proud of my career.
A Bold Challenge Against England
The US enters its match against England as heavy underdogs. The Red Roses, unbeaten in over 1,000 days, are the clear favorites, but Maher sees this as an opportunity rather than a disadvantage.
We’re playing with nothing to lose and everything to gain, she said. England carries the pressure—we carry the freedom to surprise. If we want to win, we’ll need perfect execution for every single minute. But win or lose, I just want to enjoy the moment in front of 40,000 fans.
After facing England, the US will take on Australia and Samoa in Pool A, with the top two teams advancing to the quarter-finals.
The WWE and Hollywood Connection
Should Maher join WWE, she’d follow in the footsteps of other athletes who successfully crossed over into wrestling. Boxers like Mike Tyson and Floyd Mayweather made memorable WWE appearances, while Olympians Kurt Angle and Ronda Rousey became franchise mainstays. Hollywood then beckoned, with The Rock and John Cena becoming global movie stars.
Maher’s potential WWE stint could amplify her brand, opening doors in entertainment while keeping her rugby legacy intact.
Looking Ahead
Whether she steps into the wrestling ring or pursues acting, one thing is certain—Ilona Maher’s star power extends far beyond the rugby field. Her blend of athleticism, charisma, and ambition makes her a unique figure in sports and entertainment.
For now, her focus remains on rugby. But with WWE and Hollywood calling, the future holds endless possibilities for this trailblazing athlete. The question isn’t if she’ll make waves in a new arena—it’s when.
Catch Ilona Maher and the US Women’s Rugby Team in action at the Women’s Rugby World Cup, live on BBC.
