Butler first came to prominence as a rugby union player when he represented Felinfoel.
Like many other players before him, he moved from Feloinfoel to neighbouring Llanelli where he played as prop.
[1] Butler played against Argentina on 14 September at Buenos Aires; the Wales XV lost 9–5,[6] no caps were awarded at the time, but he was later awarded a Welsh Rugby Union President's cap.
[7] In June 1970 Butler, along with club-mate Stuart Gallacher switched to professional rugby league, joining Bradford Northern.
[5] This act severed his ties with rugby union and he never played the sport again.