The talented full-back will be a key figure as Brisbane Broncos seek to maintain Australia's strangehold on world rugby when they take on Super League champions St Helens at Bolton on Friday.
The World Club Challenge, won three times by Wigan between 1987 and 1994, made a low-key comeback 12 months ago when Melbourne Storm thrashed Saints 44-6 at the JJB Stadium.
But 23-year-old Lockyer, the newly-appointed Broncos vice-captain, is convinced the fixture is here to stay.
"I watched the Broncos at ANZ in 1994 when Wigan beat them. I was 16 or 17 at the time and played first grade for the Broncos the following year.
Hot Favourites
"That was one of the biggest crowds for an ANZ Stadium game. It's still pretty popular, but it might take another 12 months or so to reach those heights again."
Man of the match in Brisbane's 14-6 Grand Final win over Sydney Roosters last August, he enhanced his reputation as the best full-back in the game by helping Australia to win the World Cup final at Old Trafford two months ago.
With fellow Kangaroos Wendell Sailor, Gorden Tallis and Shane Webcke also in the line-up, along with Fiji captain Lote Tuqiri, it is little surprise that Brisbane start hot favourites to lift their third Challenge.
Not that Lockyer, who is looking forward to renewing his rivalry with ex-Newcastle Knights pair Peter Shiels and David Fairleigh, expects the game to be as one-sided as the Melbourne clash.
"I watched your Grand Final and defensively St Helens looked very strong," he said. "We know they are going to be a hard team to get through.
Unique atmosphere
"They've got some size in their forwards too. Peter Shiels and David Fairleigh are big boys and they've both got ball-playing abilities. They will make a difference."
St Helens may be underdogs, but they will have the support of the crowd.
The well-travelled Lockyer is happy to concede home advantage and delighted to sample the unique atmosphere of British grounds.
"It's a good experience for the guys to come over," he said. "I like playing here. I enjoy playing on the pitches over here and it's always enjoyable to play in these stadiums."