Tevita Pangai Jr will return to the NRL effective immediately after inking a deal with the Dolphins.
The former NSW Origin star turned professional boxer was handed a lifeline by former Broncos coach Wayne Bennett, with the contract covering the rest of the 2024 season.
The 28-year-old will make the transfer from Queensland Rugby League’s Souths Logan Magpies from Monday.
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Bennett advised the playing group on Friday morning of Pangai’s signing, with the star prop set to make his debut with the Dolphins next week against the Sharks.
The signing adds depth back into the Dolphins forward pack after it was revealed that Tom Gilbert will be out for the rest of the season with a knee injury, while Thomas Fleger also continues to manage a shoulder problem.
Tevita Pangai Junior is tackled by Dolphins defenders. Getty
Pangai made his NRL debut at the Broncos in 2016 after being recruited by Bennett, where he played 96 NRL games before moving to Penrith in 2021.
After a short season with the Panthers, the Tongan international joined forces with the Bulldogs, before he announced he would be retiring from the competition last year to focus on a professional boxing career.
The Rabbitohs-bound coach said he believes Pangai will be a driving enforcer for his team.
“I am really looking forward to Tevita getting back on the field and I am so glad it is with the Dolphins,” Bennett said.
“He is a good player that I have always enjoyed coaching, and I think he will be a strong addition to our squad.”
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Tevita Pangai Junior of the Blues runs at David Fifita of the Maroons. Getty
Pangai also has a close relationship with current Dolphins assistant coach and soon-to-be head coach Kristian Woolf – who was just another reason for his move north according to the club’s statement.
“I am very much looking forward to being coached by both Wayne and Kristian Woolf as I have a long history with both of them,” said Pangai.
“I am excited about being back in the NRL again and re-establishing myself as a full-time NRL player, as well as being part of what the Dolphins could do this season.”
It’s unclear whether Bennett will attempt to lure Pangai to South Sydney with him next season.