Newcastle’s Asu Kepaoa has been referred directly to the NSWRL judiciary for allegedly using a homophobic slur towards a rival player last week that led to him being sent off in a NSW Cup match.
The NSWRL confirmed via a statement on Monday the Knights player would have to front the judiciary for the alleged slur directed towards Dragons winger Nathan Lawson.
Kepaoa was sent off just before half-time of Friday’s NSW Cup match against the Dragons. It’s unclear what was said, but officials heard the comment and made the call to send him from the field.
“Newcastle Knights back-rower Asu Kepaoa has been referred to the NSWRL judiciary for an alleged homophobic slur in the 39th minute of The Knock-On Effect NSW Cup match against St George Illawarra Dragons at McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle, on Friday 19 June,” a NSWRL spokesperson said.
“Kepaoa has until midday tomorrow (Tuesday 23 June) to enter a plea with a NSWRL judiciary hearing scheduled for Wednesday night.”
Marcelo Montoya was suspended for four matches back in 2022 for an on-field homophobic slur during an NRL match.
Kepaoa played 43 NRL games for the Wests Tigers and then moved to the Panthers where he was stuck in reserve grade before he signed a two-year deal to join the Knights in 2026.