Bodene Thompson has minimal boxing experience, but the Warriors back-rower jumped at the chance to fight Cronulla Sharks and New South Wales State of Origin captain Paul Gallen in the Super Eight event in Auckland on November 3.
Thompson began using boxing in his late teens to supplement his leaguetraining and a lone foray into the ring proved successful when he defeated an experienced Brisbane fighter at a charity event in 2011.
He describes himself as an instinctive fighter and is confident of his chances against the more experienced Gallen, who boasts a 3-0 professional fight record.
"I wouldn't jump in the ring if I didn't think I could win," said Thompson. "It was just awesome to get the opportunity and I jumped at it and said 'yeah, why not'. I love it."
Thompson's selection in the Kiwis train-on squad for the end of year tour to England will ensure he is in top shape, but his fight contract has a get-out clause should he be named in the final 23-man squad on October 4.
His fight preparation will begin in earnest next week, when he goes into camp with veteran trainer Lolo Heimuli, who will focus on developing his technical skills.
Thompson has the full backing of his Warriors teammates and coach Andrew McFadden's only concern was that he doesn't lose too much weight ahead of the NRL pre-season.
"He was keen. I've just got to make sure I don't trim down too much. I made the mistake of losing too much when I did the other fight and ended up playing centre the whole year and I don't want to do that."
