Keaon Koloamatangi, the South Sydney Rabbitohs’ 26-year-old back-rower, has shared his commitment to improving his fitness and positioning himself for a chance at State of Origin this season. After reflecting on his performance in 2024, he recognised he was “overweight” by his own standards and opted to make a significant lifestyle change. With Wayne Bennett returning as coach, Koloamatangi decided to shed excess weight to enhance his performance as a second-rower, a position he believes is his strength.
Following the Rabbitohs’ victory over the Dolphins in round one, Koloamatangi revealed he has experienced a notable drop in weight, stating, “I probably haven’t been this light since I was born.” He acknowledged that while being lighter sometimes feels less powerful, he has maintained strength in the gym and is adapting to his new physique.
In the match against the Dolphins, Koloamatangi showcased his hard work, tallying 186 running metres, six tackle breaks, and 28 tackles during a full 80-minute performance. A key aspect of his transformation has been cutting out dessert, a significant weakness for him. He committed to this change for two to three months, opting to forgo late-night sweets and seeing quick results.
Koloamatangi’s newfound dedication to his fitness is not just about personal health goals; it’s also about competing with the best back-rowers in the NRL. He expressed that achieving the right fitness level is crucial to excelling in his position, and he feels determined to prove his capabilities on the field.
In a lighthearted moment, he joked about his past dessert habits, mentioning that his go-to treats often came from Uber Eats, especially acai bowls, which are popular in his Canterbury-Bankstown area.
As the Rabbitohs prepare for their upcoming match against the Dragons, Koloamatangi looks forward to continuing his impressive form and re-establishing himself as a key player in the league.