LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
NRL renegade John Hopoate has been given the boot from any future Wests Tigers shindigs after a dust-up at a recent gala dinner celebrating the club's 25 years in the league.
The 50-year-old former Tigers player reportedly got into a heated exchange with NSW Rugby League bigwig Dave Trodden, causing quite a stir at the event.
Hopoate, known for his controversial antics both on and off the field during his NRL career, allegedly crossed the line by berating Trodden over a decision to prevent him from playing local footy with his son.
The confrontation prompted Trodden and his kin to make a hasty exit, leaving many in attendance shocked by the incident.
Wests Tigers CEO Shane Richardson didn't mince words when addressing the matter, labeling Hopoate's behavior as "disgraceful" and making it clear that the troubled star is no longer welcome at any future club gatherings.
Witnesses described the altercation as cringeworthy and unsettling, highlighting the ugly side of the sport that can rear its head from time to time.