Fans just now discover legend Doddie Weir's real name, he always used nickname - Ruck

Fans just now discover legend Doddie Weir’s real name, he always used nickname

The rugby community will always cherish the memory of Doddie Weir, a true rugby icon, whose brave six-year battle with Motor Neurone Disease ended last year.

Join the RUCK’s WhatsApp community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages.

Weir, who earned 61 caps between 1990 and 2000, continued to inspire by raising millions for his My Name’5 Doddie foundation after his 2016 diagnosis.

The lock was given an OBE in 2019 for services to rugby, to MND research and to the Borders community.

However, following a number of emotional tributes, many supporters are only now realising that his legal name isn’t really Doddie at all.

A number of articles from non-rugby related publications have used his full name, which is actually ‘George Wilson Weir’

Dod or Doddie is a traditional Scottish nickname, usually a diminutive or tee-name for “George”.

Highest-paid rugby players:

Breaking records and raising eyebrows, these players are leading the charge in the financial stakes of rugby union. Here’s the rundown of the top earners in the game according to The Scotsman:

Siya Kolisi – £850,000

The South African skipper boasts an impressive resume with two Rugby World Cup triumphs and a commendable third-place finish. At French powerhouse Racing 92, Kolisi has been commanding a salary of £850,000, but with the recent arrival of Owen Farrell, he might be eyeing a bump in his paycheck.

Siya Kolisi, Captain of South Africa during the Test Match between New Zealand and South Africa at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London on August 25th 2023. – PHOTO: Phil Mingo/PPAUK

Faf De Klerk – £900,000

De Klerk, another key figure in South Africa’s World Cup-winning squad, has made his mark in Japan. Playing for the Yokohama Canon Eagles, he’s banking a cool £900,000 annually, showcasing the global appeal of rugby’s top talents.

Faf de Klerk of Sale Sharks during the Gallagher Premiership match between Exeter Chiefs and Sale Sharks at Sandy Park on 6 March 2022. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK

CONTINUES ON PAGE 2