Paul Gallen, 45, returns to boxing against Nelson Asofa-Solomona despite health
Former Cronulla captain Paul Gallen will fight ex-Melbourne Storm enforcer Nelson Asofa-Solomona. It will be his 20th professional boxing bout. His wife Anne disapproves. There are concerns about brain damage.
Paul Gallen, 45, is returning to the ring. He will fight fellow former NRL star Nelson Asofa-Solomona.
The heavyweight fight will be in Sydney. The bout will be his 20th professional fight.
It comes 16 months after his last comeback against Sonny Bill Williams. Anne, Gallen's wife, is unhappy about the decision.
But Gallen says it is his role to provide for his family. Gallen has had multiple brain scans.
He claims he is in good health. Gallen dismissed concerns about chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).
This is a brain condition from repeated head impacts. He says it cannot be found until after death.
He says a doctor has cleared him to fight. He promised this will be his final comeback.
- 45 years old
- Age
- 20th
- Professional bout number
- 16 months
- Time since last comeback
- Nelson Asofa-Solomona
- Opponent
Why it mattersA retired athlete is choosing to fight again. This happens despite serious health risks. It raises questions about financial pressure. It also raises questions about medical advice on repeated concussions.
AustraliaGallen's decision reflects ongoing concern among retired Australian rugby league players about brain damage from contact sport, a public health issue gaining attention.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 1 h ago
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