From Rugby League to the Wrestling Ring and Back: Daniel Vidot’s Unique Sporting Journey
Daniel Vidot, a former National Rugby League (NRL) player, is set to make a notable return to the sport this weekend, suiting up for the USA Hawks. This comes after Vidot famously transitioned from rugby league in 2017 to pursue a career in professional wrestling with the WWE.
Currently, Vidot is carving out a successful career in Japan, dominating the All-Star Japanese Pro Wrestling (AJPW) scene under the moniker Xyon. He recently competed in a wrestling event in Japan, drawing a crowd of a couple of thousand spectators.
The turnaround for Vidot has been swift. He’s made a quick dash to Las Vegas to seize the opportunity to represent the USA Hawks in a team environment. Speaking to Rugbyjp.com, Vidot expressed his eagerness to get back into the sport that occupied eight seasons of his top-grade career.
“I love rugby league, I always have,” Vidot stated. “I want to see it grow, and especially in the USA. Wearing the jersey and representing the USA for me is a win-win situation. I still miss footy every now and then, so whenever I get a chance to play, I want to take it if my schedule aligns.”
Vidot is clearly enjoying his dual sporting life. “I love both things, footy and wrestling, right now. I want to take on whatever challenges come my way.”
In preparation for his upcoming rugby league match, Vidot has been training with the Newcastle Knights squad throughout the week, honing his skills ahead of the showdown against Scotland.
Leveraging Wrestling Skills on the Rugby Field
The wrestling star is bringing a few new tricks to the rugby league field, aiming to showcase his enhanced athletic abilities as he dons the Steeden once more. His experience in the wrestling ring has provided him with valuable mental fortitude.
“The cool thing about wrestling is that it’s taught me how to block out the crowd,” Vidot explained. “I have confidence out there. I’ll mostly be thinking about how to get my breath back.”
Reflecting on the reactions to his return to rugby league, Vidot shared, “They were saying, ‘What, you’re still playing?’. I told them, ‘Yeah, I still try.’ For me, I think I need to get that fix of playing league still.”
A Return Fueled by Athleticism and Ambition
Vidot had previously admitted to a keen interest in returning to the 13-man code, even back in 2021. At that time, he highlighted his newfound athletic prowess gained from his wrestling career.
“There are times when I’m like, ‘Oh man, I wonder if I could go back now, I’m in the best shape of my life’,” Vidot told Zero Tackle in 2021. “They would definitely have to put me in the forwards, though. I’m 120kg at the moment.”
The Growing Potential of Rugby League in the USA
With the NRL actively exploring expansion opportunities in the USA, Vidot believes there’s a significant chance for global growth of the sport. He’s confident that the American public will embrace rugby league.
“I think there’s massive potential there,” Vidot asserted. “Not taking away from the NFL, but we play 80 minutes without breaks and no pads. I encourage everyone to watch this weekend.”
The USA Hawks are scheduled to host Scotland in all three grades – youth, women’s, and men’s – at Cougar Stadium, located within Coronado High School. This event promises to be a significant showcase for the sport in the region.
