Former rugby league player Curtis Scott is set to step into the ring for a bare-knuckle boxing match, despite facing allegations of assaulting two individuals just weeks ago.
The 28-year-old, known for his time with the Melbourne Storm and Canberra Raiders, was released on bail under strict conditions following his arrest related to an incident at the Sydney Cricket Ground in March.
Authorities claim that Scott and his 55-year-old mother, Dianna Allen, were involved in an altercation with an 18-year-old after a Sydney Swans AFL game.
The young man reportedly required medical attention for facial injuries and was subsequently transported to a hospital.
Police intervened by stopping a tram at Moore Park, intending to speak with Scott. However, he allegedly assaulted an officer, causing minor injuries, before making his escape.
Appearing in Sydney’s Downing Centre Local Court on Wednesday dressed in all black, Scott entered a plea of not guilty to charges of affray, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and assaulting a police officer.
His solicitor Paul McGirr asked the court to vary Scott’s bail conditions to allow him to fight in an upcoming bare-knuckle boxing match in Brisbane.
The former centre, once among the NRL’s brightest young stars, pivoted to boxing after his NRL contract was cancelled in 2021 following an altercation at a nightclub.
“He has a job and his main income is from fighting, sanctioned fights,” Mr McGirr said.
“This is his craft and this is what he’s good at.”
He noted Scott, like many rugby league players, had the potential to “go by the wayside” after his career ended because the “sugar hit” of the high income had suddenly dissipated.
But the one-time premiership winner has redirected his talents and found steady employment, Mr McGirr said.
Scott has abstained from alcohol and embraced weekly treatment, his lawyer said, but the night-time curfew should be removed to allow him to work in Queensland.
The suggestion was opposed by the prosecutor, who said the former NRL player has been charged over a “significant incident of violence” and has a history of violence.
The alleged confrontation with the teen involved “significant ferocity and force”, Judge Michael Allen noted.
He acknowledged concerns about the safety of the community and the commission of further offences but highlighted Scott’s adherence to treatment.
The judge lifted the curfew, clearing the way for the former NRL player to fight later this month.
Scott will return to court in May and his mother will face court on Thursday.
She has been charged with common assault and hindering a police officer in the execution of duty but has not yet entered pleas.
Her son played 84 NRL games during his career, including a stint in the Storm’s 2017 premiership-winning side.
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