Why David Fifita Changed His Mind About Sydney Roosters Contract: Back-rower Re-signs with Gold Coast Titans
David Fifita has made a surprising decision to reject a multi-million dollar deal with the Sydney Roosters and instead re-sign with the Gold Coast Titans. Despite reports suggesting he was set to join the Roosters, and the Titans announcing his departure last week, Fifita changed his mind and confirmed his new contract with the Titans, extending his stay until the end of 2026.
In a podcast appearance, NFL vice president of broadcast planning Mike North admitted that the league had been a little unfair to the Ravens by giving them consecutive Christmas road games. The Titans have now been involved in two major NRL backflips: Daly Cherry-Evans staying at Manly and Fifita’s recent decision.
A statement from the Roosters indicated that Fifita had doubts about his move, leading the club to withdraw their offer. The Roosters wished him well, while the Titans confirmed his re-signing in a bombshell statement.
Fifita expressed gratitude for the interest shown in him and cited the team’s direction and being close to home as reasons for his decision to stay. Initially, the Roosters had appeared as a likely destination due to salary cap space and several player departures. However, after a change of heart, Fifita chose to remain with the Titans, securing his position with the club until the end of the 2026 NRL season.
Phil Gould, Bulldogs head of football, commented that the Roosters dodged a bullet with Fifita’s decision, suggesting he might not have been a good fit for their work ethic despite his talent.
Fifita’s re-signing means the Titans have now experienced two significant backflips, with Cherry-Evans’ earlier decision to stay at Manly being the other. This time, the Titans benefited from Fifita’s choice to stay.
