Ilona Maher, the American rugby sensation and Olympic bronze medalist, is contemplating a significant career shift following the Women’s Rugby World Cup. Known for her dynamic presence both on and off the field, Maher is exploring opportunities in professional wrestling and acting.
The 29-year-old athlete has garnered attention for her substantial social media following, boasting nearly nine million followers across platforms like Instagram and TikTok. This digital influence has opened doors beyond rugby, including appearances on “Dancing with the Stars” and a feature in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition. In 2025, she was honored with the Best Breakthrough Athlete award at the ESPY Awards.
Reflecting on her potential transition, Maher shared insights into her future aspirations. She expressed interest in entering the acting realm, drawing inspiration from figures like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and John Cena, who successfully navigated from wrestling to Hollywood. “I would love to get into the acting space and the scripted space,” Maher stated. “It would be exciting to see my body type on the screen.” She humorously added, “I’ll start off small—probably like a hot assassin or something.”
In addition to acting, Maher is considering a foray into professional wrestling. She revealed that WWE has approached her with potential opportunities. “I’ve been approached before by the WWE,” she mentioned, playfully suggesting her ring name could be “Maher-vellous.” She acknowledged the financial prospects of such a move, stating, “There is great money in it.”
Despite these new ventures, Maher remains committed to rugby. She emphasized her dedication to the sport, expressing a desire to return to the field in the future. “I do see myself coming back to rugby,” she affirmed.
As Maher prepares for the Women’s Rugby World Cup, where the United States is set to face England in the opening match, her multifaceted career continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
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