Pangai confirms Storm reports as NRL return nears
Tevita Pangai Junior has addressed rumours linking him to the Melbourne Storm, with the front-rower admitting he is open to the idea of joining the NRL powerhouse.
The 28-year-old, who retired from rugby league last year to take up boxing full-time, is making his way back to the sport through QLD Cup with Souths Logan.
Pangai signed with the reserve grade club earlier this year and after his recent win inside the ring, is now eyeing off an NRL comeback.
Reports earlier this week suggested the Tongan international could quit boxing and join the Storm in the coming weeks.
Tevita Pangai Junior watches a Broncos training session at Red Hill.
Speaking to SEN Radio, Pangai confirmed he had been in contact with coach Craig Bellamy and admits it would be too good an opportunity to pass up.
“It was funny because I had actually seen Cameron Smith at the netball maybe a month ago, and that gave me the idea to give Bellyache a cold call,” he said
“If Craig Bellamy wants you, you sort of have to go.
“Hopefully that does come to fruition, to be in a system like Melbourne Storm.”
Pangai played 138 first grade games across stints with the Broncos, Panthers and Bulldogs, but never reached the heights many expected.
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Less than a year ago, Pangai made his State of Origin debut for NSW, but played just one game in rugby league’s toughest arena, before hanging up the boots at the end of 2024 and walking away from a lucrative contract with Canterbury.
Pangai admits if he was to return to the NRL this year or next, it would need to be with an organisation that is likely headed for success, rather than chasing big money elsewhere.
“No disrespect to anyone on the bottom teams but if I go back to a bottom team then people will say I haven’t learnt my lesson,” he said.
“I need to go to a team where it’s not about the money, it’s about the system and the coaches, and the players.”
Pangai could line up for the Magpies this weekend in their clash with Western Clydesdales on Saturday night.