Warrior shoots down bikies’ rumour

Warriors wrecking ball Addin FonuaBlake heard all sorts of wild rumours about why he needed to make a rapid exit fromManly.

‘‘I heard my manager was doing under-the-table deals, which is completely false,’’ Fonua-Blake says.

‘‘I heard some bikies were after me, which was news to me. I’m not [mates with bikies]. I heard I only wanted to leave for more money. All of it is untrue.

‘‘I wanted a fresh start for myself and my family. I didn’t leave Manly on bad terms, Dessie [Hasler] was understanding and respectful of my decision.

‘‘I was in no trouble – no trouble at all. I laughed at some of the stories.

‘‘I’m a big boy, I know what is right from wrong, I’m not scared of anyone. I’m not leaving on any bad terms with anyone.

‘‘I thought it was the right move for myself and my family and whatever I think is right by them I’ll do.

‘‘It’s the next chapter in my life.’’ Fonua-Blake stunned the Sea Eagles in September when he announced he was keen to leave Sydney, despite having two years to run on his deal worth around $1.7 million.

In the space of just a week, FonuaBlake struck up a three-year deal with the Warriors worth north of $2.5m – money which marks him as one of the best front-rowers in the game – yet questions remained about the sense of urgency to depart.

Manly later signed prop Josh Aloiai.

Fonua-Blake broke his signing news on social media, even before the Warriors had time to announce his prized signature.

The 25-year-old formed an excellent and intimidating front-row combination with Marty Taupau at the Sea Eagles, but knows he needs to quickly learn how to ‘‘stand on my own two feet’’ at the Warriors.

After finishing the first block of preseason training in Kiama on Friday, Fonua-Blake is already being looked to as a leader by the Warriors. He knows the club has recruited well and has what it takes to return to the NRL finals.

Wests

Tigers