Laekin Vakalahi, a 22-year-old from Auckland, New Zealand, has made headlines after selling his Super Bowl LIX ring for a reported $124,440, according to Darren Rovell from cllct.
While most Super Bowl rings are owned by seasoned NFL stars, Vakalahi’s journey to the championship circle was anything but typical.
From Junior Rugby in Australia to the NFL Practice Squad
Before football, Vakalahi’s sporting life was rooted in Melbourne, Australia, where he excelled at basketball.
His path to the NFL began with a chance encounter with Chris Naeole, a former NFL offensive guard working as an international scout for the Philadelphia Eagles.
That meeting opened the door for Vakalahi to join the Eagles’ practice squad last season.
Standing 6ft5, the young athlete brought athleticism and versatility to the team, even though he never played a single official NFL game.
Yet, like other practice squad members, he still earned a coveted Super Bowl ring after the Eagles’ championship run.
A Personal Decision Amid Life Milestones
Just weeks after tying the knot in Utah, Vakalahi decided to sell the ring.
He shared a touching message online alongside photos of the ring, writing: “Sealed to my sweetheart for time and all eternity. Such a blessing.”
While he hasn’t confirmed that the sale was connected to wedding expenses, the move follows a precedent in NFL history.
Legendary Pittsburgh Steelers running back Rocky Bleier, New York Giants receiver Plaxico Burress, and New England Patriots’ Josh Gordon all sold their championship rings at different points in their lives, often driven by financial necessity or new beginnings.
Fans React to the Sale
The auction stirred mixed reactions online.
Some fans expressed disappointment, feeling the ring should have stayed with Vakalahi.
Others were more understanding, recognizing that its sentimental or monetary value may differ from person to person.
“He did the right thing selling it. What does the ring mean to him?” one X user wrote.
Another speculated that the ring’s auction could increase its value over time, predicting it may become a prized collector’s item.
A Ring That Tells an Unusual Story
Vakalahi’s story highlights how Super Bowl rings can represent more than personal glory—they can mark a milestone in life, a bridge between sports and personal achievements, and sometimes a practical decision in the real world.
Though he’s no longer on an NFL roster after being waived during final cuts in August, the former practice squad member now has a new chapter to write, ring or no ring.
-
Ben Simmons Invests in South Florida Sails Angling Club Bringing Former NBA Star Into Competitive Sportfishing
-
Micky van de Ven Calls Alexander Isak to Apologise Following Challenge That Caused Broken Leg During Liverpool’s Win at Tottenham
-
Manchester United Prepare to Appoint Newcastle’s Paul Midgley as Head of Academy Recruitment Amid Staff Overhaul at Carrington
-
Peter Wright Crashes Out of PDC World Darts Championship After Shock 3–0 Defeat to Arno Merk at Alexandra Palace
-
Brooks Koepka Announces Departure from LIV Golf After Four Years with the Saudi-Backed Circuit in the United States
-
Arsenal Host Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium as London Rivals Clash in Carabao Cup Quarter Final
-
Mohamed Salah Feels the Love Again in Morocco as Africa Cup of Nations Return Highlights His Enduring Importance for Egypt and Liverpool
-
Manchester City Take Lead in Race for Antoine Semenyo While Manchester United and Others Monitor Bournemouth Forward
-
Philip Rivers Rolls Back the Years as Veteran Quarterback Sparks Wild Reactions During Colts Loss on Monday Night Football in Indianapolis
-
Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown opens up about personal hair loss struggles and mental health journey while announcing partnership with Nutrafol in the United States