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Kentucky’s JJ Weaver is going viral at SEC Media Days after showing his hand to reporters. The defender has six fingers on his right hand, which caused an immediate reaction from fans and media online.
The star pass rusher is using it to his advantage, however, reportedly turning it into a unique partnership with Nike.
Weaver was born with an extra pinky on his right hand, which he says if often a talking point to those that meet him. When he was younger, he said it led to getting picked on by other kids.
He didn’t let it deter him on the field, though, as he’s developed into one of the Wildcats’ top players.
Over the past two years, he’s notched 9.5 sacks and 16.5 tackles for loss from his linebacker position. He’s added a pair of interceptions and three fumble recoveries as well.
Entering his senior season, he’s a team leader for a Kentucky program looking to make some noise in the SEC East.
For that reason, he was brought to Nashville to attend SEC Media Days. While talking with the media, he showed off that six-finger hand to viewers.
UK EDGE JJ Weaver has a 6-finger hand. It just means more!
(via @SECNetwork, h/t @On3sports) pic.twitter.com/G4Rjq4vd5Y
— Kentucky #BBN (@BBN) July 19, 2023
Fans were quick to react online.
One person said, “That’s an unfair advantage. Kentucky should be getting some sanctions coming soon.”
Another wrote, “He was given an impermissible benefit.”
This follower posted, “It literally just means more.”
While many joke about the extra finger, JJ Weaver is using it to his advantage.
According to On3 Sports, he’s teamed up with Nike to help his Perfect Fit brand.
“So, me and my mom ended up contacting Nike, we ended up making a name for it called, ‘A Perfect Fit,’ because it’s a perfect fit for my hand, for the gloves. So, they made me an extra six-fingered glove.”
An awesome response to an unexpected circumstance. Keep an eye out for Weaver in 2023