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Warburton was shortlisted for the top award, which was first won by Mervyn Davies back in 1976, alongside All Blacks World Cup winning coach Graham Henry, French World Cup skipper Thierry Dusautoir and Shane Williams.
"It is a fantastic honour and very surreal. There are players on the list of previous winners who I used to watch on DVD when I was growing up and really admired," said Warburton.
"To be named alongside them is just incredible and it is something that I don't think will completely sink in for some time.
"It has been a whirlwind year for me and I had my best and worst moment in the space of 18 minutes when I led Wales into the World Cup semi-final. I wouldn't have put a pound on even making the squad at this time last year.
Warburton is in Heineken Cup action this weekend when the Blues travel to London Irish in Pool x
"This is a big weekend for the Blues and we are looking to go up there and get the win we need to help us on our way to a quarter-final spot," added Warburton.
It was a double night of celebration for Wales at the dinner as former Wales flanker Richard Parks received the 'RUWC Special Award' for his efforts in the 737 Challenge, climbing the world's highest peaks and reaching the two poles.
