Gold Coast Titans forward Pahulu is reportedly seeking an early release from his contract to join the Canterbury Bulldogs, following a dispute over a bonus he missed out on in the 2024 season.
The 20-year-old, who impressed during his rookie season, was reportedly upset after falling one game short of triggering a $40,000 bonus, which was contingent on playing 20 games last season. Pahulu played 19 games but was rested for the final match, preventing him from securing the bonus.
Titans CEO Steve Mitchell declined to comment on the specifics of Pahulu’s contract but maintained that the club adheres to a policy of not discussing recruitment or retention publicly. “Our club policy is that we don’t comment publicly on recruitment and retention, which applies to this case like all others,” Mitchell stated.
Despite his frustration, Pahulu’s future at the Titans is uncertain, as the team’s forward pack is now even more crowded with the return of captain Tino Fa’asuamaleui from injury, along with the signings of Reagan Campbell-Gillard, Klese Haas’ re-signing, and the presence of stars like Moeaki Fotuaika and David Fifita.
Bulldogs general manager of football, Phil Gould, has shown interest in bolstering his team’s pack, and Pahulu, who averaged 59 running metres and 13 tackles per game in 2024, could be a valuable addition off the bench. However, the Titans have not yet granted his request for an early release.
