Before the Battle on the Reef boxing match in Townsville, Sonny Bill Williams made a remark that left Junior Paulo, a forward for the Parramatta Eels, star struck.

Paulo, 29, was shocked to hear that Williams believed the enforcer had what it took to make a successful career in the ring. Paulo will face Ben Hannant, a former front-rower for the Broncos, on the undercard of Battle on the Reef.

Junior Paulo has my utmost respect and time. He’s got some ring smarts. Like all Islanders, he has quick hands and fast-twitch fibers, Williams remarked.

“JP is someone who knows his way around boxing, so he could actually pursue it as a career.”Paulo expressed his humility in response to the remarks, saying he was in awe of the cross-code superstar who had achieved two NRL premierships, two Rugby World Cups, and a record nine victories out of ten career boxing matches.

He told Wide World of Sports, “I think it’s pretty cool to have Sony talk me up,” to start.

“His aura is well known to all of us.” He’s been successful in a variety of sports environments.

“Everyone is aware of his actions on the football field.” It’s really cool, and yes, it kind of makes me feel like a movie star.

Paulo doesn’t intend to leave the NRL anytime soon, so Eels supporters shouldn’t worry too much about his playing future.

I’m a football player first and foremost,’ he declared.

When these chances arise, you usually look forward to the challenge and the training that go along with it.

Of course, staying in shape during the off-season is beneficial. As it happens, following my initial bout with Paul Gallen in 2016,