LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
An NRL veteran, who has played for five different teams throughout his career, has been named as the first boxing opponent for Nelson Asofa-Solomona after the latter's recent departure from the Melbourne Storm. Jeremy Latimore, who retired from the NRL seven years ago, will face Asofa-Solomona in a bout scheduled for January 16 in Brisbane.
This match will mark the New Zealand international's inaugural fight under a nine-fight contract with No Limit Boxing, an organization co-founded by former NRL front-rower George Rose. Latimore shared his thoughts on the upcoming match, stating, "I honestly feel like this is the perfect time to get the bloke. Because the more Big Nels fights, the better he'll get."
However, Latimore also noted the unique challenges Asofa-Solomona will face, given that his only fight so far consisted of two-minute rounds. He explained, "But the only fight he's had so far has been over two-minute rounds. And no matter how much you prepare for threes, you get in there, and it's like you've got concrete boots on." He believes the additional pressure of performing in Brisbane will be significant for Asofa-Solomona, warning that he might experience a surprise under the bright lights.
"Immediately, I had my own mates texting me saying you're gonna f***ing lose, but I get it. Nelson's a big guy. He's had that one fight against Jarod Wallace [and won by KO], so I'm under no illusion about how much power he's got," Latimore acknowledged. This fight promises to be an intriguing matchup, as both fighters bring their unique experiences from the NRL to the boxing ring.