NRL fans have ignited a conspiracy theory suggesting that Penrith Panthers winger Brian To'o has been secretly performing as the club's mascot, Claws. The speculation emerged after footage of Claws dancing at the Panthers' 20-18 victory over the New Zealand Warriors last weekend went viral on social media.
Dance Moves Spark Speculation
To'o, known for his impressive dance moves both on and off the field, has frequently posted videos of himself dancing to Michael Jackson's 'Beat It'. The Panthers mascot was recently filmed performing a strikingly similar routine, leading fans to connect the dots. Many supporters believe that To'o, who was rested from the Warriors match due to State of Origin commitments, was moonlighting as the mascot.
Comments on a post by content creator Ryan Flaxman flooded in, with one fan stating, 'Probably bizza in that suit,' referring to To'o's nickname 'Bizza'. Another wrote, 'Now we no why bizza didn't play.. on mascot duties.' Others chimed in with 'That’s Brian Too hahaha' and 'Bizzaaaa for sure.'
Claims Debunked
Despite the viral buzz, the claims have been proven false. The identity of the mascot performer has been revealed as Alexander Irby, a seasoned entertainer who also portrays 'Brutus', the mascot for the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs. Irby's performance under the Claws suit was the source of the dance moves that sparked the theory.
The Panthers' victory over the Warriors was a crucial top-of-the-ladder clash, placing Penrith four points ahead of their rivals in first place. While To'o remains a star on the field, he is not the man behind the mask.
