LEOTA LOOKS FORWARD TO FISH FACE-OFF: Panthers Enforcer Prepares for Emotional Battle With Old Mate Fisher-Harris

 

When the Penrith Panthers run out to face the New Zealand Warriors this weekend, it won’t be just another game for prop Moses Leota. This clash carries something extra — a reunion with a familiar face who once stood shoulder-to-shoulder with him in countless battles: James Fisher-Harris.

 

Now wearing Warriors colors, Fisher-Harris will line up opposite his former teammate for the first time since his emotional departure from the Panthers at the end of last season. And for Leota, it’s a match-up he’s been anticipating for months.

 

“It’ll be weird seeing Fish on the other side,” Leota admitted earlier this week at Panthers HQ. “We’ve been through a lot together — from our early days coming through the grades to lifting multiple premierships. I’ve got nothing but respect for him. But once we’re out there, it’s game on.”

 

The Panthers–Warriors rivalry has taken on new meaning in 2025. With both clubs jostling for position inside the top eight, and with Fisher-Harris’ high-profile move across the ditch, Sunday’s showdown in Auckland is shaping up as one of the most eagerly anticipated fixtures of the round.

 

Leota, 28, has long been one of the Panthers’ most underrated figures. Overshadowed at times by his star-studded teammates, the Tongan international has quietly built a reputation as one of the game’s toughest and most consistent middle forwards. But this week, the spotlight is firmly on him — and on the duel with a player he calls “a brother.”

 

BROTHERHOOD TURNED BATTLEFIELD

 

Leota and Fisher-Harris were the beating heart of the Panthers’ engine room during the club’s golden era from 2020 to 2023. Their brutal, no-nonsense approach up front laid the foundation for Penrith’s historic premiership three-peat.

 

Off the field, their bond was just as strong. The pair trained together, traveled together, and shared milestones in each other’s lives. So when Fisher-Harris announced he was returning home to New Zealand to join the Warriors in 2024 — citing family reasons and a desire to give back to the game in his homeland — it hit Leota hard.

 

“It was tough seeing him go,” Leota said. “We came into first grade around the same time. We pushed each other every day. But I know how much this move meant to him and his family. He’s doing his thing now, and I’m proud of him.”

 

Proud, yes — but also prepared to bring the heat. Because as much as Leota admires his former teammate, there’s no room for sentiment once the whistle blows.

 

“I know what he brings,” Leota said with a grin. “He’s aggressive, he leads by example, and he doesn’t take a backward step. But I won’t either.”

 

WARRIORS RESURGENCE SPARKED BY FISH

 

Fisher-Harris has been instrumental in the Warriors’ resurgence in 2025. After a turbulent 2024 campaign, the club has rebranded itself around toughness, discipline, and culture — traits Fisher-Harris embodies.

 

His leadership has helped transform a young forward pack, and the Warriors now sit sixth on the ladder, breathing down Penrith’s neck in fifth. Sunday’s clash could go a long way in determining finals positioning — and in setting the tone for any potential September rematch.

 

“That’s what makes this game so important,” Leota said. “We’re not just playing to catch up with Brisbane at the top — we’re playing to stay ahead of teams like the Warriors. There’s finals energy in this one already.”

 

PANTHERS LEAN ON CONTINUITY, YOUTH

 

While the loss of Fisher-Harris left a sizable hole, the Panthers have moved swiftly to reinforce their middle. Leota has stepped into an even more prominent leadership role, while the likes of Lindsay Smith, Liam Henry, and Spencer Leniu have taken on added responsibility.

 

“It’s been good watching the young boys step up,” Leota said. “They bring a lot of energy, and they’re not afraid to rip in. That’s what we pride ourselves on at Penrith — next man up.”

 

Under head coach Ivan Cleary, Penrith has refused to lower its standards. Even with key injuries throughout the season, they’ve managed to grind out results, holding one of the best defensive records in the competition.

 

But Leota knows the Warriors — particularly with Fisher-Harris leading the charge — present a different kind of challenge.

 

“They’ve got power, they’ve got skill, and they’ve got passion,” he said. “Fish has brought that old-school mentality. He’ll try to dominate the ruck and get under our skin. We’ve got to match that intensity and stay composed.”

 

RESPECT, THEN RIVALRY

 

Despite the fierce competition expected on the day, Leota insists there will be no bad blood — only mutual respect and a desire to win.

 

“We’ll probably laugh and shake hands after the game,” he said. “But during those 80 minutes, it’s war. You play for your club, your fans, and your jersey.”

 

It’s that mentality that has made Leota one of Penrith’s most respected leaders — and why Sunday’s personal battle with Fisher-Harris is shaping up to be one for the ages.

 

“I owe it to the team to bring my best,” Leota said. “And if that means going toe-to-toe with one of my best mates… then let’s go.”

 

The Panthers face the Warriors this Sunday at Go Media Stadium, Auckland. Kick-off is scheduled for 4:05 PM (NZT). All eyes will be on the middle of the park, where a pair of ex-teammates turned rivals prepare to write the next chapter of their shared legacy — from brotherhood to battle.