local
El Paso rhino Taj set to predict World Cup winner
By Jocelyn Flores at KTSM 9 News (NBC)
· July 18, 2026
· 1 min read
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) -- As many soccer fans across the nation and the Borderland prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final between Argentina and Spain, an animal at the El Paso Zoo will make its prediction on the winner. Before the kickoff of the final game, Taj the Greater One-Horned Rhino will...
Key takeaway Before the kickoff of the final game, Taj the Greater One-Horned Rhino will predict [...
Why this matters in The El Paso
The El Paso Zoo's decision to have Taj the rhino predict the World Cup winner brings a lighthearted touch to the city's soccer fervor. This event may attract new visitors to the zoo, potentially boosting local tourism and showcasing the zoo's creative approach to community engagement. As the Borderland region prepares to watch the final game, Taj's prediction will likely generate buzz among local soccer fans, who can gather at watch parties or tune in from home to see if the rhino's choice aligns with their own. The zoo's participation in this global event also underscores the city's diverse cultural interests, from wildlife conservation to international sports. By involving Taj in the World Cup excitement, the El Paso Zoo is reminding residents of its presence as a unique entertainment and educational destination in the city.
About this story
Original reporting by KTSM 9 News (NBC) . The El Paso surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KTSM 9 News (NBC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 18, 2026 ·
Source: KTSM 9 News (NBC) ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) -- As many soccer fans across the nation and the Borderland prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final between Argentina and Spain, an animal at the El Paso Zoo will make its prediction on the winner. Before the kickoff of the final game, Taj the Greater One-Horned Rhino will...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 18, 2026 by KTSM 9 News (NBC) and curated for The El Paso readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Jocelyn Flores at KTSM 9 News (NBC). To learn more about how The El Paso selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The El Paso, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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