Former Melbourne Storm star Nelson Asofa-Solomona has walked away from the NRL to pursue a full-time boxing career. The 29-year-old prop, who was granted a release from the final two years of his contract, has signed a boxing deal, according to News Corp.
The 200cm, 115kg forward will fight in the heavyweight division. He had been linked to the breakaway rugby competition R360 and several NRL clubs, but has chosen boxing instead.
Asofa-Solomona, a member of the Storm's premiership-winning teams in 2017 and 2020, missed this year's grand final due to suspension. He also missed last year's grand final because of a ban. He recently admitted losing passion for rugby league, saying he needed to find joy back in the game.
Reports suggest Asofa-Solomona could earn around $1 million a year from boxing, with plans for a fight against another NRL player. He previously fought former Dolphins star Jarrod Wallace in 2023. He was on a contract of nearly $850,000 a season at the Storm.
Asofa-Solomona played 215 games for Melbourne, joining the club as a junior in 2011. He thanked the players, coaches, and staff for his time at the club, saying he chose to step away for new challenges.
