Ex-league star named as alleged assailant

John Hopoate. Photo / Dean Purcell

Sydney police have charged a Kings Cross hotel security guard, believed to be former high-profile rugby league player John Hopoate, following the serious assault of a man in a Kings Cross street.

Police said the attack occurred at about 11pm (1am NZT) on Saturday after three men tried to enter the Trademark Hotel on Bayswater Road but were refused entry by security, due to their alleged intoxication.

One of the trio allegedly made threats toward a security guard, sparking a chase through nearby streets and a subsequent fight.

As a result, a 33-year-old man suffered head injuries and was rushed to St Vincents Hospital where he underwent surgery and remains in a serious condition.

"Unfortunately he has had to undergo brain surgery as a result of an assault up at Kings Cross," Deputy Commissioner Dave Owens told reporters on Sunday.

He said a 36-year-old bouncer from the hotel was arrested early on Sunday morning and has been charged with offences relating to the assault of the 27-year-old.

Some media outlets have reported that Hopoate is the security guard who has been charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm and affray.

Police did not confirm the man's identity but said he was "known" to them.

He has been granted bail and is due to face Downing Centre Local Court on January 11.

Hopoate, who played two tests for Australia and one State of Origin match for New South Wales, turned to professional boxing in 2006 after a string of league suspensions - including one for infamously poking his finger in the anus of opposing players while playing for Wests Tigers in 2004.

- AAP