Former bikie Anthony Watts is determined to make a return to the NRL, despite suffering a devastating knee injury.
Watts ruptured his patella tendon in his first game for South Newcastle after relocating from the Gold Coast.
The 28-year-old played more than 50 games in a short but powerful NRL career.
It was followed by a string of highly publicised criminal matters, which resulted in a stint in gaol.
He dabbled in boxing, and late last year fought Blues skipper Paul Gallen.
Watts has since relocated to Newcastle, and wants to re-ignite his football career.
In his first game for the Lions, Watts scored a try, but the celebrations ended with his very next touch.
“When I first went into the hospital at the John Hunter they said I might no ever play football again or be able to box. That was pretty shattering, after the surgery they came to me and said everything went really well. They said the rehab will probably be around 6 to 8 months.”
Initial contact between the Knights and Watts had been established, but further discussions have now been put on hold.
In the meantime – and beyond – Watts is determined to remain on the straight and narrow.