Police are investigating a wild post-fight altercation involving former NRL star Nelson Asofa-Solomona and a spectator, as Paul Gallen reassured everyone he was “safe and sound” following his sickening knockout defeat in the government-sponsored bout.
On Saturday, Gallen declared “you live by the sword, you die by the sword” after Asofa-Solomona landed a series of unanswered right hands – including at least one that connected after he appeared knocked out and on the ropes – that left him on the canvas for several minutes.
The former NSW skipper eventually recovered sufficiently to congratulate Asofa-Solomona on the victory, but was rushed to hospital shortly afterwards on Friday night.
There were wild scenes immediately after the fight after the former Melbourne Storm forward leapt out of the ring to confront a spectator. Asofa-Solomona pulled his punch at the critical moment, later claiming his actions were prompted by a racial slur.
A NSW Police spokesman confirmed the events that occurred outside the ring following the bout were under investigation.
Officers on the scene at the time had spoken to the spectator involved, while Asofa-Solomona was escorted from the venue by organising officials.
Posting to his Instagram account early on Saturday morning, Gallen attempted to allay fears about his health.
“Well, it’s official; Father Time is undefeated,” Gallen posted. “And that’s it for me.”
“Thanks to [promoters] No Limit for sending me to hospital and making sure everything’s fine. No issues guys.
“I’m home now with my family, safe and sound. Life goes on.
“It’s one of those games; you live by the sword, you die by the sword. In the heavyweight division, things can change in a split second and NAS [Nelson Asofa-Solomona] changed them in a split second.
“Well done mate. I’ve got no issue about anything, you did a great job.
“I’m fine, fit and healthy. Life goes on.”
A spokesperson for the bout promoter, No Limit, declined to comment.
The Combat Sports Authority of NSW, which regulates the safe conduct of combat sports across the state, had jurisdiction over the bout and has also been approached for comment.
The event was supported by the state government through its tourism agency Destination NSW as part of its “Feel New in Sydney” campaign.
The campaign invites Australians to connect with the city in ways that “spark new emotions and lasting memories”.
Gallen, 45, said this retirement will be permanent after a pugilistic career that ended with 16 wins, one draw and three losses.
“Thanks to everyone in boxing,” Gallen posted. “I’ve loved my time in boxing over the past 10-15 years. Everyone I’ve fought, everyone I’ve been involved with, boxing has been a wonderful sport. I really appreciate it.
“That’s it. That’s all she wrote.
“NAS is right about one thing; Father time is undefeated. The first thing you lose is your punch resistance and I lost that tonight.
“Well done mate. See you guys.”
Asofa-Solomona apologised for shaping up to a spectator. “I looked into the crowd, and someone was making an ape gesture,” Asofa-Solomona said.
“I stood on the ropes, and it looked like someone threw something at me, so I just lost my temper. As I said, if I could have my time back, I would handle it differently because that behaviour isn’t acceptable. At the same time, what that person did with that gesture isn’t acceptable either.
“I think it was a mix of everything. The adrenaline was there, but I also don’t tolerate that kind of nonsense. Once I saw it, I just saw red. But like I said, if I could do it over, I wouldn’t do that again.”
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