Tongan born, US raised center Uatesoni ‘Watson’ Filikitonga played in Major League Rugby in 2021, and again in 2025. He represented the LA Giltinis (2021), and Anthem RC (2025).

Although born in Tonga, Tilikitonga was raised in San Mateo, CA where he attended San Mateo High School, playing gridiron football as a running back and middle linebacker while there. He was finally convinced to try rugby by his brother, USA Eagle #470 Lemoto Filikitonga, just before he graduated high school in 2015. He was recruited by Bruce McLane, the head coach of Iona College, to play in the Gaels midfield, which he did.

Filikitonga was the very first signing announced by the LA Giltinis ahead of their inaugural season in 2021. He appeared in two MLR games off the bench during the Giltinis Shield-Winning season, before signing with the American Raptors following the MLR season. Filikitonga played with the American Raptors from 2021-2024, playing in the Super Rugby Americas competition. When the Raptors announced that they would not play professional rugby in 2025, Filikitonga returned to MLR after 3 seasons, signing with Anthem RC for their sophomore season in the competition. This signing was confirmed when Anthem RC revealed their complete 2025 roster on January 21st, 2025.

achievements

• 2021 MLR Champion: LA Giltinis