TEVITA PANGAI JR says Sam Burgess is the reason he will be playing for Warrington Wolves – and not rugby union – next year.

A former NRL star with Brisbane Broncos and Canterbury Bulldogs, Pangai Jr only signed for Catalans Dragons ahead of this season from the Dolphins on a one-year deal.

The Tonga international has signed on the same terms at Warrington for 2026 and said Burgess was the main draw despite being linked with a code change.

Pangai Jr, 29, admitted earlier this year that his agent had been in discussions with French rugby union clubs, to try what would have been another new sport after a professional heavyweight boxing career which brought four wins and most recently a stoppage loss in May last year.

“I’m excited to work with Sam Burgess,” Pangai Jr told The Daily Telegraph. “He’s a big reason why I’m going there.

“Ben Te’o (like Burgess, a cross-code star who played for the England rugby union team) had big wraps on Sam during my time with him at the Broncos and Dolphins. He is very inspiring as a player and coach.

“Rugby union has always been something I’ve wanted to try.

“It would have been great to be in that environment and system to the learn the number six or eight position to excel but things didn’t eventuate.

“This opportunity came up and it happened very quickly to be honest.

“I’ve enjoyed my life in France but I’m looking forward to having success with Sam at Warrington.”

Burgess said of Wire’s first confirmed signing for next season: “He’s a dynamic forward who brings real power and presence through the middle.

“His experience at the highest level will make him a valuable asset to our pack for next season.”