Nelson Asofa-Solomona was released from his Melbourne Storm contract several months ago in stunning circumstances, with speculation that the giant prop would head to R360.
As the dust settled, several NRL clubs reportedly spoke to the former Storm enforcer, along with multiple rugby union competitions.
It was expected he would make a decision between the two codes shortly, but no one anticipated the choice he has now made.
The former Melbourne Storm powerhouse has rejected interest from up to seven NRL clubs, as well as lucrative offers from Super Rugby and the English Super League, to sign a full-time professional boxing deal, according to news.com.au.
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It marks one of the most surprising sport switches in recent memory, with the 29-year-old turning down multimillion-dollar opportunities to chase his dream of becoming a heavyweight contender.
Asofa-Solomona has already shown promise in the ring, including a dominant 2023 victory over former Dolphins prop Jarrod Wallace in a three-round knockout performance.
Promoters believe he could earn close to $1 million a year under his new deal, with plans reportedly underway for a rugby-league-themed super fight featuring another high-profile NRL big man.
The former Storm forward departs the game after 215 NRL appearances and premiership triumphs in 2017 and 2020, cementing his legacy as one of the most intimidating forwards of the modern era.
His towering 200cm frame and brutal tackling style often made him a game-changer, but also contributed to multiple suspensions, including missing Melbourne’s past two grand finals.
Storm legend Cameron Smith previously said Asofa-Solomona could “break a game open” when at his best and described his absence in recent finals as costly for the club.
He will now focus entirely on preparing for his full-time boxing debut as he looks to carve out a career in the heavyweight division.
The former Storm hardman follows in the footsteps of other NRL players who have successfully transitioned to boxing, most notably former Cronulla Sharks adversary Paul Gallen.
There is no doubt Asofa-Solomona has the size and power to compete with any athlete, but it will be intriguing to see how he develops as a full-time boxer.
Either way, any code hoping to secure the giant forward will now need to shift their focus elsewhere after a contract development few saw coming.