For Nelson Asofa-Solomona, Friday night's heavyweight fight against Paul Gallen could determine whether his professional boxing career continues.
The former Melbourne Storm forward made that claim during Monday's fight-week media event on Sydney Harbour. Speaking to Fox Sports, Asofa-Solomona said his agreement with promoter No Limit Boxing means defeat would end his current boxing career. The contract has not been independently examined.
The New Zealand-born fighter, whose parents are from Samoa, built his reputation through rugby league. After leaving Melbourne, he committed to boxing and recorded three knockout victories in his first three professional bouts.
Gallen presents a different challenge. The former Cronulla captain has more professional boxing experience, while Asofa-Solomona brings size, power and an unbeaten record.
The build-up included verbal exchanges and unverified remarks about drug testing, which should not be treated as evidence of misconduct.
Can a successful rugby league career provide the foundation for lasting success in boxing? The fight takes place in Sydney on Friday, 6 November.
