‘So much power’: Gold Coast Titans next gen turns heads in clubs debut hit out

The Gold Coast Titans hulking next generation wrecking ball has sent NRL fans into a frenzy in his club debut. With a huge engine and stature he has been marked as a game changer for the NRL.

The Gold Coast Titans hulking next generation wrecking ball has made his presence felt in his club debut against South Sydney.

Alex Leapai jr, son of former world heavyweight boxer Alex Leapai sr, was recruited by the Titans junior pathways in 2023, and has wasted no time in showing the world why he should be a feared opponent for every NRL club in the land.

The 193cm giant played a vital role in the 16-12 in his debut before smashing his way through to help the Titans claim an 18-0 victory over Penrith and then a 22-16 win over Newcastle on the weekend.

Leapai jr signed a three year deal, knocking back a fresh contract from the Roosters to stay home on the Gold Coast.

Future Titans Pathway coach Jamie McCormack said he is an incredible talent for such a young age.

Titans future's star and son of former boxer, Alex Leapai. Picture: Gold Coast Titans

“He has so much power behind him as well, he is a big boy and he isn’t afraid to throw his body around,” McCormack said.

“His pace and skill for someone of his size is incredible, one of the players to watch for sure.

“A very handy recruit for us but it also stems from him wanting to come back home and stay here as well.”

Titans were one of seven clubs that showed interest in Leapai jr, including the Roosters, Broncos, Canberra, Souths, Manly and the Dolphins in 2023.

He was named in the Langer Trophy Team of the Year in 2023, ranked as one of the ‘most dangerous’ players.

The Mable Park State High School product had the opportunity to follow in his fathers footsteps and become a world heavyweight boxer.

In 2022, he had one fight in the super-heavyweight division, winning by knockout in the second round.

“He very easily could have become a boxer, I am sure he has spent plenty of time in the ring with his old man,” McCormack said.

“But the thing about him is, he really is one of the nicest kids you will ever meet.

“He is so humble and caring and one of the best people you want to be around.”

Leapai jr is just one of many development players coming through the ranks at the Titans who got the opportunity to train during the pre-season with the main group.

“He hit the ground running during pre-season with Des (Hasler),” McCormack said.

“Definitely did not look out of place either.

“He has a pretty good engine on him, will keep going and running.

“Does take a few players to tackle him as well.

“That was one thing we noticed, is that people and numbers are drawn to him on the field.”