Honey Badger fakes 'code switch' in bizarre stunt
Nick ‘Honey Badger’ Cummins has struck again, this time taking over the Melbourne Storm’s press conference where he was unveiled as the club’s latest “signing.”
The presser was called on Friday to announce coach Craig Bellamy’s commitment to stay at the helm of the Storm for another season, however, also featured the seemingly fake news that the Honey Badger will be making the code switch from rugby union to league, in what appeared to be a bizarre publicity stunt.
Melbourne CEO Justin Rodski announced the news, stating that the Honey Badger’s addition to the team has been a “long time in the making.”
“We know that code switches don’t happen easily, but we’re really excited to be welcoming the newest addition to our squad,” Rodski said.
“A player that’s got great character, he’s proven himself on the big stage in rugby union. And for us as a club, we’re always looking to do things a little bit differently and look at opportunities to strengthen our squad and our list.
“Today’s that day and we’re pretty excited to be welcoming to the Melbourne Storm, the Honey Badger.”
Thirty-six-year-old Cummins parted ways with the Wallabies on compassionate grounds in 2014 to make the move to Japanese rugby with the Coca Cola Red Sparks, but has not played since 2016.
Cummins entered the press conference wearing his trademark headband and Melbourne Storm training kit to speak on his latest career move.
“It’s good to be here. Obviously, it’s a decision that I make lightly having been on the sidelines for a few years now,” Cummins said.
Nick ‘Honey Badger’ Cummins speaking at the press conference.
“I think the way these boys hold themselves, they’re not just motivated, they’re dedicated.
“The opportunity came around, I was like a bull in a china shop, I just wanted to go up the guts and into it, throw yourself in, and give it everything you can.”
The Honey Badger said his decision to make the code-switch was to show that he can “still deliver the goods”, claiming that he’s “still got a bit of music” left to play.
“You’ve got a couple of young blokes I want to show that I can still deliver the goods and push,” he said.
“I know I can add something to the boys with a bit of experience and a bit of passion.
“It’s a tight group, it’s tight for spots but I’ll do what I can for everyone. The boys, how tight they are together, it’s going to be hard to crack that but I know I can.
Nick Cummins talks to the Storm players.
“They’re as tight as a fat lady’s sock.”
Cummins told reporters he had to head off to training with the boys, adding: “If I can get in there and add what I can, I will.”
“I’ve got to get into it boys.”
The stunt is likely to be a promotion for the Australian underwear and workwear brand Tradie, which Cummins is an ambassador for.
Tradie inked a partnership deal with the Melbourne Storm in 2021 and will remain a visible sponsor for the club until the end of the 2025 season.