The Wellingtonian has shown plenty of boxing potential from his early foray into the ring. In 2023 Asofa-Solomona fought Jarrod Wallace, knocking out the former Dolphins prop in a three-round heavyweight fight.
Speaking after the Kiwis’ win over Tonga last month, Asofa-Solomona made it clear he has a desire to return to the boxing ring.
“Boxing is something I’m passionate about,” Asofa-Solomona, said. “When [you] wake up in the morning, someone’s trying to take your head off, so you’ve got to train hard and you’ve got to stay on.
“You don’t have to rely on other people to get the job done. It’s just you and your team, but you’re in there yourself.”
He also admitted he had fallen out of love with the NRL.
“I just need a bit of time off,” said Asofa-Solomona. “[It’s been] a crazy last couple of years, I just need to find a bit of joy back into my game.
“If I were to stay in rugby league, I would probably try to find a place where I can enjoy my football again. I’ve got a lot to give, I still believe my best years are in front of me. I just need to find a place that can unlock that.”
The Warriors were among the NRL clubs who had been linked to Asofa-Solomona, but it was always unlikely, mainly due to financial reasons.
Ben Francis is an Auckland-based reporter for the New Zealand Herald who covers breaking sports news.