Sonny Bill Williams has harshly criticised Paul Gallen, labelling him a “narcissistic prick” while accusing him of avoiding drug testing and pulling out of a recent press conference. Gallen did not appear at Sydney’s Liberty Hall, where details of their upcoming fight on July 16 were unveiled, but sent a provocative video message to Williams that was displayed to attendees.
In response, Williams brought up the infamous supplements saga involving Gallen during the NRL in 2011, suggesting that Gallen’s past makes his criticisms of Williams’ character hypocritical. Williams highlighted that Gallen, who previously pleaded guilty to unknowingly using banned peptides and allegedly received a $700,000 payout to settle a dispute with his former club, has questioned his integrity multiple times over the last decade.
Williams posed pointed questions about Gallen’s activities over the past three years, implying a lingering suspicion regarding Gallen’s fitness for the upcoming match. He stated, “I think it is a genuine concern,” regarding potential drug use, and condemned Gallen’s character while vowing to “smash his face” in their bout.
Gallen, on the other hand, addressed the accusations, expressing his willingness to be drug tested and mocking Williams’ past controversies, including a DUI charge. He characterised Williams as predictable and implied that he had anticipated the attacks regarding his supplements scandal.
Gallen also missed the presser to make a statement about his frustrations with Williams, feeling he had been disrespected over the years. He mentioned a preference for three-minute rounds instead of the agreed two, expressing his determination to keep up a high pace during the fight, despite concerns about training alongside Jai Opetaia, who has critiqued the fight as “soft.”
Joining Williams at the press conference was Australian boxing icon Danny Green, who noted the unpredictable nature of boxing and underscored the genuine animosity brewing between the two fighters. He predicted that the event would draw significant attention as the bout approaches, hinting at a showdown that could electrify fans worldwide.
The fight between Williams and Gallen will take place at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena and is being promoted as a must-watch event, available live on Stan Pay-Per-View for $70.