Boxing: Betham quits UK early to take up boxing

Monty Betham is on the verge of returning to New Zealand to launch a professional boxing career under the management of Mick Watson.

The former Warriors skipper joined UK Super League side Wakefield Trinity on a two-year deal this season, but it is understood he wants to return to try his hand in the ring, and that Wakefield are prepared to grant him an early release.

His father, Monty Betham Snr, is a former national boxing champion and Betham was involved in boxing and karate before becoming a professional rugby league player. He was a national junior boxing champion and represented New Zealand at the world junior karate champs.

Asked last year what he would be doing if he wasn't a rugby league player, the 28-year-old replied: "a boxer".

Throughout his seven-year stint at the Warriors, Betham's pugilistic abilities earned him the reputation as one of the most-feared players in the NRL.

He was known for getting into trouble, and even last year a fight he had with Roosters backrower Anthony Tupou cost the Warriors a try.

Betham also famously king-hit Bulldogs second-rower Steve Reardon in a match in 2001.

Betham hasn't escaped trouble this year in the UK, either. He was sent off and then received a two-match ban for unleashing a series of right hooks on Castleford's Ryan McGoldrick.

Betham initially signed a two-year deal to join Wakefield, and was captain this season, but looks set to team up with former Warriors chief executive Mick Watson.

Watson has some experience in boxing considering Cullen Sports, who own the Warriors, have a boxing arm headed by heavyweight Shane Cameron. Watson has gone into business with former Kiwis fullback and TV identity Matthew Ridge, who owns a carwash chain.