Ahead of the first ever Betfred Super League game taking place on US soil, Sky Sports and legendary boxing announcer Michael Buffer gave a lucky couple the ultimate Las Vegas wedding experience, celebrating their love in a specially made Vegas-style chapel in the heart of, err, Wigan.
Wigan Warriors fans John Synott and Sharon Jukes were welcomed into the Las Wigan Chapel in true Buffer style, before having their ceremony officiated by a fully ordained celebrant in front of friends, family and an array of famous rugby league faces including Warrington’s head coach, Sam Burgess and league legend, Martin Offiah.
The chapel, situated a stone’s throw away from Wigan’s Brick Community Stadium, was kitted out with trophies, merch and club mascots from both the Warriors and Warrington Wolves, who face Wigan in the sport’s Vegas debut, giving fans a preview of the colliding worlds of Las Vegas and rugby league.
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It was also witness to ceremonies between local fans before Thursday night’s opener, including Ged Upham and Jean Harrison who after 25 years together will be officially tying the knot in Vegas after being prevented by Covid five years ago.
Buffer further embraced rugby league culture by making a guest appearance to welcome the teams onto the pitch at last night’s Wigan vs Leigh Leopards game, live on Sky Sports.
Bride Sharon said: “We’ve always planned on getting married in Las Vegas, so when we heard that the Entertainment Capital of the World was coming to our hometown, we jumped at the opportunity. To also have the legendary Michael Buffer playing a part in our ceremony is something we never expected. This has been an incredible experience, and it makes us even more excited to be heading out to Vegas for the game against Warrington in a couple of weeks.”
Buffer added: “I have had a fantastic day meeting the people of Wigan and hearing how excited they are to have rugby league head over to Las Vegas next month. Alongside Sky Sports, it’s been wonderful to be able to give those fans a taste of what they can expect on the other side of the pond, not least celebrating with John and Sharon on their special day.”
Wigan Warriors vs Warrington Wolves will take place at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on Saturday, March 1 and will be live on Sky Sports and NOW at 9:30pm in the UK.
