Tevita Pangai Junior has commented on speculation connecting him with the Melbourne Storm, expressing his openness to the possibility of joining the NRL powerhouse.
The 28-year-old, who retired from rugby league last year to pursue boxing full-time, is now returning to the sport through QLD Cup with Souths Logan.
Pangai signed with the reserve grade club earlier this year and, following his recent victory in the ring, is now considering an NRL comeback.
Reports this week suggested the Tongan international might leave boxing to join the Storm in the near future.
Speaking to SEN Radio, Pangai confirmed he had been in touch with coach Craig Bellamy and acknowledges it would be a compelling opportunity.
“It was interesting 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 amassed 138 first-grade games across spells with the Broncos, Panthers, and Bulldogs but fell short of the anticipated success.
Less than a year ago, Pangai made his State of Origin debut for NSW, featuring in just one game before retiring at the end of 2024 and forgoing a lucrative contract with Canterbury.
Pangai acknowledges that if he were to return to the NRL this year or next, it would need to be with a successful organization rather than pursuing significant financial gains 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 learned my lesson,” he said.
“I need to go to a team where it’s not about the money, it’s about the system, the coaches, and the players.”
Pangai could potentially play for the Magpies this weekend in their match against the Western Clydesdales on Saturday night.
