Legendary boxing announcer, Michael Buffer, has helped give a lucky couple the ultimate Las Vegas experience in the heart of Wigan by celebrating their love in a specially made Vegas-style chapel.
Ahead of the first ever Betfred Super League game taking place on US soil, Sky Sports brought a slice of Vegas to the North-West, and offered fans a Valentine’s Day to remember, before they head to the Entertainment Capital of the World to watch Wigan Warriors take on Warrington Wolves next month.
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 Wolves, giving fans a preview of the colliding worlds of Las Vegas and rugby league. It was also witness to ceremonies between local fans before Thursday night’s opener. One of which was Ged Upham and Jean Harrison who after 25 years will be officially tying the knot in Vegas after being prevented by Covid five years ago.
And 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.
Commenting on their special day, 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.”
Michael 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 1 March and will be live on Sky Sports and NOW at 9:30pm in the UK.
Notes to Editors:
T’s & C’s About The Las Vegas Chapel*
· A celebration of love ceremony allows couples to show their love for each other and celebrate their relationship by exchanging personal vows. The ceremony is not legally binding, and your marital status will not change.
· Select couples will be chosen in accordance with Sky Sports, both clubs and Wigan Council.
· Michael Buffer will be at the Las Wigan Chapel at varying times, so not all visitors are guaranteed to see him