Burton’s Bold Bid Eyes NFL Scouts at $2bn ‘Death Star’ Stadium
Cameron Ciraldo, head coach of the Canterbury Bulldogs, recently found himself amidst a media frenzy at Allegiant Stadium, also known as the “Death Star.” This state-of-the-art venue, valued at $2 billion, is home to the Las Vegas Raiders. On the eve of the highly anticipated NRL Las Vegas match, Ciraldo and his team were preparing for an exciting game.
Burton’s Bold Skills Grab NFL Scouts’ Attention
One of the standout stories leading up to the game has been the impressive kicking ability of Bulldogs playmaker Matty Burton. Just days prior, he wowed everyone by punting a Steeden football that nearly struck the roof of the Raiders’ practice facility, which is approximately 110 feet high. This remarkable feat captured the attention of NFL scouts, sparking speculation about Burton’s potential crossover to American football.
Training at the Death Star
On February 27, 2026, each NRL team was given an exclusive opportunity to train at Allegiant Stadium. The first teams to arrive were from the English Super League and the North Queensland Cowboys, followed by the Canterbury Bulldogs, Newcastle Knights, and St George Illawarra Dragons. The Bulldogs had the unique privilege of conducting a full Captains Run on the field, further amplifying the excitement surrounding their participation.
- Canterbury Bulldogs: Special access for Captains Run
- North Queensland Cowboys: Casual visit in civilian attire
- Newcastle Knights: Short training session with high kicks
- St George Illawarra Dragons: Brief walk on the field after a tour
Excitement in the Air
Players across all teams expressed their awe at the grandeur of Allegiant Stadium. Canterbury backrower Sitili Tupouniua articulated his astonishment with an enthusiastic exclamation. Furthermore, the indoor environment provided ideal conditions for training, records show significantly better plays due to the dry track.
Burton’s Rising Stardom
The spotlight is firmly set on Matty Burton, whose striking talent has attracted notice from prominent figures, including NFL punter Michael Dickson. According to Dickson, Burton possesses the skill set to excel at American football. With his contract extending until the end of 2027, Burton is poised for potential opportunities, leaving fans eager for his performance in Las Vegas.
Community Engagement and Fan Experience
The atmosphere surrounding the match promises to be electric. Allegiant Stadium’s design creates an engaging environment for both players and fans. Knights coach Justin Holbrook emphasized the perfect conditions for rugby league, and Ciraldo echoed this sentiment, highlighting the stadium’s impressive stature.
Conclusion: Focusing on the Game
Despite the excitement and media attention, Ciraldo emphasized that the focus remains on securing a win. The Bulldogs plan to concentrate on their game strategy rather than the extravagance surrounding their Las Vegas experience. With both teams eager to put on a show, fans can anticipate an unforgettable matchday.
Catch the action from Las Vegas live, exclusively on Filmogaz.com, where you can watch all three games of Rugby League ad-break free during play.
