Hate it or love it, trash talk is an unavoidable part of rugby, and all sports in general.
Trash talk is a part of rugby that is certainly polarizing. Some love the competitive spirit (as long as it doesn’t cross a line) and some see it as disrespectful regardless of how playful it is. Regardless, the skill of getting under a player’s skin and affecting how they play is just another part of the game to some players.
Whether your trash talk is done through playing style, on-field intimidation, or off-field comments, the main goal is to gain a psychological edge on your opponents.
This list is formed from a number of interviews with popular referee Nigel Owens and features current and ex-Rugby players.
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#1. Peter O’Mahony (Ireland)
Owens said: “I’m not saying Peter O’Mahony is a dirty player one bit but he certainly has a bit of history. I remember seeing him square up to Sinckler and thinking I’m glad I haven’t ran into him in a dark alley. You can hear his loud voice bellow from a mile away.”