LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Nelson Asofa-Solomona, the recently released Melbourne Storm front-rower, is contemplating a significant career shift, with a return to the NRL appearing highly unlikely.
After missing the 2025 NRL Grand Final due to suspension, Asofa-Solomona's future has become increasingly uncertain as he has struggled to justify his $850,000 annual salary.
In recent seasons, the once-dominant front-rower has not been at his best, participating in only 12 matches this year and occasionally relegated to reserve-grade play due to concerns about his performance.
Following consecutive absences from the NRL Grand Finals, he was released from the Storm, despite having two years remaining on his contract, which included a mutual option for the 2028 season.
Recent reports from News Corp indicate that the New Zealand international, currently without a contract as the 2026 season approaches, is weighing the possibility of retiring from rugby league to focus on a boxing career.
Even though he is part of the Kiwis squad for the 2025 Pacific Championships, sources suggest he will not rejoin the NRL next year. This development follows his admission that he was approached by the rebel rugby union competition, R360.