Tevita Pangai Jr is set to quit Catalans Dragons to join Sam Burgess’ Warrington Wolves after a code switch fell through when talks with Super Rugby side the ACT Brumbies broke down.
FOX LEAGUE, available on Kayo Sports, is the only place to watch every game of every round in the 2025 NRL Telstra Premiership, LIVE with no ad-breaks during play. New to Kayo? Get your first month for just $1. Limited-time offer >
The Daily Telegraph reported the former Dolphins and Broncos star will leave the Dragons at the end of the season to take up an offer with the Wolves.
Pangai Jr was on the verge of returning to Australia and signing with the ACT Brumbies but talks broke down late in negotiations.
That opened the door for Burgess to sign the former Origin enforcer on a one-year deal.
Pangai Jr said the chance to play under Burgess was too good to refuse.
“I’m excited to work with Sam Burgess,” Pangai Jr told The Daily Telegraph.
“He’s a big reason why I’m going there.
“Ben Te’o (former Dolphins assistant coach) had big wraps on Sam during my time with him at the Broncos and Dolphins.
“He is very inspiring as a player and coach.”
MORE NRL NEWS
RUN HOME: Unthinkable push could shake up four; who wins in four-way finals fight
‘WEREN’T GETTING THERE’: Ciraldo reveals reason for ‘tough’ call to axe Sexton
TRANSFER WHISPERS: Storm star in sights of cashed-up Saudi backed rebel league
The 29-year-old was close to joining the Brumbies with the chance to play for the Wallabies at the 2027 Rugby World Cup, but the deal ultimately fell over.
“Rugby union has always been something I’ve wanted to try,” he said.
“It would have been great to be in that environment and system to the learn the No. 6 or 8 position to excel but things didn’t eventuate.
“This opportunity came up and it happened very quickly to be honest.
Watch every game of the 2025 NRL Women’s Premiership LIVE and ad-break free during play on FOX LEAGUE, available on Kayo Sports. New to Kayo? Get your first month for just $1. Limited-time offer.
Sexton’s strong numbers hard to ignore | 03:31
“I’ve enjoyed my life in France but I’m looking forward to having success with Sam at Warrington.”
Pangai Junior scored 20 tries in 147 NRL games for the Broncos, Panthers, Bulldogs and Dolphins from 2016 to 2024 with a short career in boxing in between.
He also played six Test for Tonga and one Origin for the Blues before moving to the Super League where he has scored four tries in 19 games for Catalans this season.
Luai under the pump as stats surface | 04:05
