Marketing agency Fuse Sport has arranged for a change of name for Tonga’s controversial international rugby player Epeli Taione by deed poll to Paddy Power ahead of the forthcoming rugby world cup which starts in Paris this Friday.
The deal has been brokered on behalf of the Irish bookmaker.
As part of a campaign orchestrated by sports marketing agency Fuse SPORT for bookmakers Paddy Power, Epeli Taione – the Tongan 19-stone centre-come winger-come flanker-come number 8 – has officially changed his name by deed poll to Paddy Power ahead of the tournament in France, which kicks off in Paris on September 7th.
The 19 stone 28 year-old centre/winger/flanker used to play for Sale Sharks and Newcastle Falcons but now plays in Japan. He is expecting to be referred to as Paddy Power throughout the tournament by the team mates, family, fans and the media….
Tonga is due to play England in their final pool game on 28 September.
The orginal Paddy Power of the Dublin bookmaker met up with Epeli Taione and the Tongan team in Manchester before they left for France. Following the announcement of the deal, he said: “Imagine the headlines - ’Paddy Power scores against England. It’s something I’ve always dreamed of.”
The International Rugby Board is believed to be less amused with the arrangement however.
Taione's agent Nick Taylor of Phoenix Management said the opportunity to help the Tongans was too good to turn down. "We are really appreciative of Paddy Power's efforts in help to supporting an emerging nation like Tonga."
Fuse Sport was established in Manchester in 2006 as a dedicated sports marketing consultancy. Clients include Paddy Power, Northern Rock, AOL and a host of sports personalities including Ricky Hatton, Andy Johnson and Paul Robinson.
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