Nelson Asofa-Solomona Secures Release From Melbourne Storm, Signs Boxing Deal With No Limit
Melbourne Storm prop Nelson Asofa-Solomona has been granted a release from his NRL contract, effective immediately, and has together signed a boxing contract with No Limit Boxing, teh organization confirmed today. The move ends speculation surrounding the future of the 201cm powerhouse, who was facing an uncertain role at the Storm following the club’s signing of several forwards for the 2025 season.
Asofa-Solomona’s departure marks a significant shift for both the Storm and the player himself, as he transitions from a top-tier rugby league athlete too pursuing a professional boxing career. The 28-year-old’s decision comes after reportedly not engaging in direct conversations with coach Craig Bellamy regarding his future at the club, fueling the swift resolution to his contract.
The prop revealed his burgeoning passion for boxing, stating, “I didn’t think I was going to fight again but it’s something that I enjoy. I woke up in the morning and boxing was the second or third thing on my mind. That’s what I base it off, I base it off what gets me out of bed.”
While the Storm have not publicly commented on potential replacements, Asofa-Solomona’s release creates a void in their forward pack. He played 167 NRL games for Melbourne since his debut in 2016, becoming a key figure in their premiership-winning teams.
Asofa-Solomona is drawing inspiration from other NRL stars who have successfully transitioned to boxing, including Paul Gallen, Sonny Bill Williams, and Anthony Mundine. ”I want to pave my own way,” he said. “I really respect what Paul Gallen, Sonny Bill Williams, Anthony Mundine have done in their careers and it’s cool as it’s given me a bit of a blueprint and inspiration.But I just want to pave my own way.”
No Limit Boxing has yet to announce Asofa-Solomona’s debut fight, but the organization anticipates his size and power will make him a formidable competitor.The move represents a bold new chapter for the New Zealand international, who is confident he can make a significant impact in the boxing world.
Video: Fogarty ignoring comparison to DCE | 02:16
MORE NRL NEWS
KNIGHTS: Ponga predicament in awkward puzzle as glaring void exposed
‘I’LL BE BACK’: Katoa breaks silence after head knock nightmare
‘TIME TO GIVE BACK’: [Kangaroos’ defection blow as star center makes WC call](https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nrl-premiership/nrl-2
