Wallabies star Lukhan Salakaia-Loto reveals next sporting challenge once his rugby career draws to a close
Towering Wallabies forward Lukhan Salakaia-Loto has confirmed he is eyeing off a career as a professional boxer once his footy career ends.
But before Salakaia-Loto, 28, potentially enters the ring, he hopes to be selected to take on the British & Irish Lions in July.
He was also pumped up after meeting Aussie cruiserweight world champion Jai Opetaia on the Gold Coast this week.
‘I’d 100 per cent jump in (and box),’ the lock told News Corp.
‘I’m not going to disrespect the sport or people that do it by saying I’m gonna be a world champion or be any good at it, but it’s something that I’d love to do.
‘I just love the sport….you’ve obviously got to put in the work and train…(I also like the fact that) its not for everyone, because its so different.’
Towering Wallabies forward Lukhan Salakaia-Loto is eyeing off a career as a professional boxer once his footy career ends
The Wallabies enforcer was also pumped up after meeting cruiserweight world champion Jai Opetaia (pictured, left) on the Gold Coast this week
Salakaia-Loto won’t have to look far for advice if he dons some gloves – his younger brother is a boxer and his late father fought professionally in Auckland.
Opetaia – who next fights Italian Claudio Squeo on June 8 – is also willing to help Salakaia-Loto prepare for any future bout.
Currently sidelined with a shoulder injury, Salakaia-Loto had a message for Wallabies selectors – pick me to face the Lions.
‘I feel like I’m slowly approaching that (full fitness),’ said the veteran of 41 Tests for Australia.
‘Getting back on the field is my main priority. It’s a day-by-day process.’
The likes of Will Skelton, Jeremy Williams, Nick Frost, Darcy Swain and Josh Canham also want to feature against the tourists in the second row.
July 11 will see Joe Schmidt name his Wallabies squad, with the opening Test in Brisbane on July 19.
