What's Next for Megastar Maher: WWE, Hollywood, or Rugby?

Ilona Maher, a prominent figure in women's rugby and a social media sensation, is weighing an intriguing offer from WWE, potentially following in the footsteps of stars like Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson. Known for her vibrant social media presence, Maher is balancing her rugby career with exciting new ventures, including a desire to enter the world of professional wrestling and acting.

Last updated: 22 August 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Ilona Maher is contemplating a move to WWE, aiming for a potential acting career.
• She remains committed to rugby, currently competing in the Women's Rugby World Cup.
• Maher has a strong social media following, which she leverages to support her rugby career.
• The US women's rugby team is considered an underdog against the formidable England team.
• Maher aims to be recognised primarily as a rugby player despite her fame on social media.

Ilona Maher's Rising Star

At 29, Ilona Maher has already made waves in both the sports and entertainment industries. As a key player for the United States women's rugby team, she has garnered attention not only for her athletic prowess but also for her engaging social media content, attracting nearly nine million followers across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X. Her vibrant personality and success on the field led to her recognition as the best breakthrough athlete at ESPN's 2025 Espy Awards.

WWE: A New Frontier?

Maher recently revealed that she has been approached by WWE, the renowned professional wrestling organisation. With a playful nod to her potential wrestling persona, she joked about her ring name being 'Maher-vellous'. While she is enthusiastic about the idea, she is also cautious, stating, "I don't know if I would [go into wrestling]. I should think about it, there is great money in it." This reflects a pragmatic approach to her potential new career, considering the financial benefits that professional wrestling could offer.

The Hollywood Aspiration

Maher’s aspirations extend beyond wrestling. She has expressed a desire to transition into acting, potentially following a trajectory similar to that of The Rock and John Cena, both of whom have successfully crossed over from WWE to Hollywood. "I would love to get into the acting space and the scripted space," she said, hinting at roles that align with her athletic background. "I think a Dwayne 'the Rock' Johnson, John Cena progression - I would love to do that." Her ambition showcases her versatility and willingness to explore new avenues in her career.

Commitment to Rugby

Despite her burgeoning social media presence and exciting new opportunities, Maher emphasises her identity as a rugby player. Ahead of the Women's Rugby World Cup opener against England at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland, she stated, "So many times people forget, but I am a rugby player first." This statement underlines her dedication to the sport, even as she navigates the complexities of fame and financial sustainability. "I do the social media because I have to because it is not sustainable to be a women's rugby player – I am not going to make money doing it."

World Cup Context: The US Team's Underdog Status

The US women's rugby team enters the tournament as underdogs against the world number one England team. Maher believes this lack of expectation can work in their favour, stating, "I am going into it with the mindset not that we have something to lose, but something to gain from this." This perspective allows the team to approach the match with a sense of freedom and enjoyment, critical elements that can lead to unexpected outcomes on the field.

Impact of Maher's Social Media Influence

Maher's influence extends beyond the pitch, as her social media presence has significantly boosted the profile of women's rugby. Her recent debut for the Bristol Bears drew a record crowd of 9,240, highlighting her ability to attract fans to the sport. "Maher's appearance in PWR brought record gates for Bristol Bears and some of their opponents alike," reflecting her dual impact as an athlete and influencer.

Looking Ahead: The Rugby World Cup Fixtures

The Women's Rugby World Cup features multiple teams vying for the title. The US will face England in their first match and will also compete against Australia and Samoa in the group stage. Maher’s experience and leadership will be crucial as the team aims to advance to the quarter-finals.

Conclusion: A Balancing Act

Ilona Maher exemplifies the modern athlete, balancing her commitments to professional sports with opportunities in entertainment. As she contemplates a future in WWE and potentially Hollywood, she remains grounded in her rugby roots. How her journey unfolds will be an exciting narrative for fans of both rugby and wrestling alike. Will Maher successfully transition into a multi-faceted career, or will she choose to focus solely on her rugby ambitions? Only time will tell.

FAQs

What is Ilona Maher's current role in rugby?

Ilona Maher is a key player for the United States women's rugby team and is set to compete in the Women's Rugby World Cup.

Has Ilona Maher been approached by WWE?

Yes, Ilona Maher has been approached by WWE and is contemplating a move into professional wrestling.

What are Maher's aspirations beyond rugby?

Maher aspires to enter the acting space, aiming for opportunities similar to those of Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson and John Cena.

How does Maher feel about being recognised primarily as an influencer?

While she acknowledges her social media success, Maher wants to be known primarily as a rugby player, emphasising her commitment to the sport.

What is the significance of the Women's Rugby World Cup for the US team?

The Women's Rugby World Cup is a significant opportunity for the US team to showcase their skills and challenge top teams like England, despite being considered underdogs.