In a surprising turn of events, a former Wests Tigers player is getting a second chance at rugby league glory, but with a rival team! Justin Matamua, the once-promising forward, is now set to showcase his skills for the Canterbury Bulldogs during their 2026 pre-season.
Matamua's departure from the Tigers was a tough pill to swallow for fans, especially considering his impressive debut in 2022. Despite his young age and potential, he found himself without a new contract at the end of 2025, joining a growing list of players leaving the club under Benji Marshall's leadership.
But here's where it gets intriguing: Matamua has secured a train and trial contract with the Bulldogs, a cross-town rival. This move could be a make-or-break opportunity for the 22-year-old, who has only 14 NRL games under his belt. And this is the part most people miss - he's doing it for a mere $1200 per week!
The Bulldogs have limited spots available for their 2026 Top 30, and with salary cap constraints, internal promotions are likely. However, Matamua's height and talent could be his ticket to a spot in the 17, especially with the support of Leo Thompson and Max King in the front row.
The battle for positions is fierce, with several players in contention. Will Matamua rise to the challenge and prove his worth? Only time will tell. And the question remains: Can he reclaim his former glory and silence the critics?
