The Newcastle Knights have signed Tyrone Thompson, twin brother of current Knights front-rower Leo Thompson, for the 2025 NRL season. Thompson, who has represented both
the Maori All Blacks and All Blacks XV, is switching from rugby union to rugby league in his first NRL contract and will join the club’s development list.
Newcastle’s Head of Recruitment, Peter O’Sullivan, praised Tyrone as a “highly skilful and powerful player” with a strong drive to emulate his brother’s path into the NRL. He noted Tyrone’s impressive rugby career,
including his experience with the Waikato Chiefs in Super Rugby and his international achievements. O’Sullivan also recalled the twins’ early days at Napier Boys’ High, where
both excelled in rugby—Leo as a centre and Tyrone as an athletic forward. Thompson’s move marks a bold step away from the All Blacks system as he pursues a career in the NRL with the Knights.