A new era: Campbell ready to step into Vegas spotlight

Gold Coast five-eighth Jayden Campbell has declared he is ready to step into the spotlight and blaze his own trail when the Titans take over Las Vegas next year.

The son of NRL legend Preston Campbell, Jayden has long followed in his father's footsteps as he has developed into one of the most exciting attacking players in the game.

The Titans' trip to Vegas, however, will mark a new frontier for the family, with Jayden set to achieve something his father did not by playing at Allegiant Stadium in the world’s entertainment capital.

It’s an opportunity the entire family is looking forward to and one the 26-year-old is determined to grab with both hands.

“Dad wouldn’t have ever imagined a rugby league game would be played over in Vegas,” Campbell told NRL.com. “There’s been a few there now and I’m fortunate enough to be going over there to play. It’s pretty surreal for him.

“Dad and my mum are planning to come over to watch, they’ve started saving up so it will be good to have them there.”

Gold Coast will take on the Eels as part of a triple-header in Las Vegas to kick off the 2027 season.

The Tigers will take on Melbourne, while Super League clubs Bradford and Leigh will also face off in the opening match of a rugby league extravaganza.

The event continues to generate significant interest for fans in Australia, the UK and USA and travel packages have been popular with supporters since going on sale last month.

Those hoping to witness the action live have another chance to secure their seats, with match tickets going on sale to the general public on Friday June 12.

A dynamic ball-running five-eighth, Campbell is set to become one of the stars of the show at Allegiant Stadium.

The youngster’s playing style mirrors that of his father, who was an undersized fullback who used his blistering speed and footwork to beat opposition defenders.

Preston won a premiership with the Panthers as part of a decorated career that saw him take out the Dally M Medal while with the Sharks and retire with the Titans.

While acknowledging the challenges of following his father into the NRL, Jayden wouldn’t have it any other way.

“From a young age I’ve always wanted to play rugby league,” Campbell said. “If you ask anyone in my family, I was always kicking a ball from a young age and wanting to play football.

“I used to go to pre-school in my football boots so from a young age I knew this is what I wanted to do.

“When I first came in I felt the pressure of being Preston’s son but now I’m a few years into my career and I know I’ve just got to be myself. I’m privileged that Preston is my dad but at the same time I’m my own person so I don’t feel the pressure anymore. I’ve just got to be myself and play my game.”