Josh Papalii’s Future in Doubt After Alleged Threats Toward Police at Canberra Venue
Canberra Raiders veteran and star prop, Josh Papalii, will soon face the ACT Magistrates Court following allegations that he threatened police and staff at a licensed venue in mid-September. The 32-year-old, one of the Raiders’ most decorated players, has been accused of aggressive behavior alongside two other men at the Raiders Gungahlin Club, a popular spot in Canberra.
According to ACT Policing, officers were called to the club at around 3 am on September 16 after receiving reports of disorderly conduct. Witnesses allege that Papalii and two others were throwing glasses and acting in a threatening manner toward staff. When asked to leave, Papalii allegedly verbally abused a staff member, sparking the intervention of police.
Upon the officers’ arrival, the group was instructed to vacate the premises. However, the situation escalated when Papalii reportedly became verbally abusive and intimidating toward the officers. Though the group initially left, they returned a short while later, forcing police to again remove them. The Raiders player is accused of attempting to further intimidate the authorities before ultimately leaving the scene.
Papalii, a player known for his toughness on the field and leadership off it, was unexpectedly honored with the Raiders Club Person of the Year award at an event the following Monday—just days after the alleged incident. Despite his extensive career, which spans over 300 games with the Raiders, this latest development has cast a shadow over his future with the team.
In a brief statement, the Canberra Raiders acknowledged awareness of the situation and confirmed that the NRL Integrity Unit had been informed. However, the club declined further comment, leaving fans and analysts wondering how the incident will impact Papalii’s standing, both within the team and the league.
Papalii is expected to appear in court later this month, facing charges of intimidating police and failing to leave a licensed venue. His 30-year-old brother, John Papalii, will also face penalties, though he has been fined rather than charged. The third man involved is reportedly not under investigation by authorities.
Papalii’s case has raised concerns about how off-field behavior could impact his on-field legacy. While he has signed on to play for the Raiders in 2025, his future now hinges on the outcome of the court proceedings and any potential sanctions from the NRL Integrity Unit.
This isn’t the first time a high-profile athlete has faced scrutiny for off-field behavior, but for a player of Papalii’s caliber, the incident has sent ripples through the NRL community. Fans of the Raiders and the wider rugby league world will now wait with bated breath to see how one of the game’s most respected players handles what could be a career-defining moment.