LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy

Next stop Accor Stadium on Stefano's 'crazy journey'

Stefano Utoikamanu's remarkable ascent in rugby has him set for a grand final at Accor Stadium next week, marking a 'crazy journey' from the bottom to the top.

The 25-year-old front-rower joined the Storm after enduring three last-place finishes with the Wests Tigers. He brought with him not only the experience of those challenges but also a strong desire to improve under the mentorship of coach Craig Bellamy.

In a standout performance against the Sharks, Utoikamanu played for 46 minutes, showcasing his skills against one of the league's top players, Addin Fonua-Blake. He tallied 139 run metres, broke through four tackles, and made a key offload that allowed Jahrome Hughes to score a try, earning him accolades from Bellamy after the match.