LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In a surprising turn of events, the Canberra Raiders have been left to pick up the pieces after their grand plans to have a high-profile guest blow the Viking horn at their NRL match in Las Vegas fell through.
According to reports from the SMH, UFC president Dana White has given the thumbs down to the invitation.
Now, the club is in a bit of a pickle, desperately searching for an alternative option to add some star power to the event.
They were hoping to snag a U.S.
sporting icon to step up to the plate.
White, who is a big shot in Las Vegas, was the perfect candidate to bring some American pizzazz to the match.
His presence would have been a real game-changer in the NRL's efforts to make a mark in the American market.
Unfortunately, the controversial UFC boss has made it clear that he won't be making an appearance.
This rejection from White is a tough blow for the Raiders and puts a dent in the NRL's ambitious plans to expand their reach in the States.
It's back to the drawing board for the Raiders as they look to find a new way to make a splash on the international stage.