Is this the end for Willie Mason? A once colourful identity of the NRL, the giant afro which paraded the park for the Bulldogs in his rookie season, used to be a cult hero among fans.
All changed when Mason made the crosstown move into Sydney’s lavish eastern suburbs lifestyle.
These days he is known by many for his recent antics, such as urinating in public, testing positive to an illicit substance, running from taxis, verbally challenging a female 2GB reporter and, not to mention, being voted the most hated-player in a fans’ poll in 2007.
Despite this damaging reputation, difficulties with visa applications and a recent slump in form since moving to the Roosters in 2007, he has managed to secure a three-year contract playing for Hull.
However, it was announced on Wednesday that he had contract with French rugby club Toulon for a little over $600,000.
However, his current club Hull KR, has since then, issued a statement on the matter, claiming they have had no approach from French Rugby, despite Mason being seen having coffee with wealthy Toulon owner, Mourad Boudjellal.
As if the dash to Hull KR wasn’t a grab for cash, the man had to outdo the club that had secured him a lifeline by de-registering Australian half back Michael Dobson, to remain under the import quota; it looks as if he has now agreed to switch codes just six weeks into his three-year contract with the English outfit, due to passport problems.
There have been speculation the big man will play at inside centre.
Surely, the man who was dropped and unwanted in the NRL as a front row forward, would not have the desired kicking and passing game to play inside centre?
Not to mention, the star studded backline the club is staking out for next season.
Toulon has acquired the services of Brumbies back Matt Giteau for next season, at a staggering $900,000-a-year, whilst also tabling an offer believed to be a whopping $1.8 million-per-season contract to former player and World Cup hopeful Sonny Bill Williams.
With a backline that will feature the likes of Johnny Wilkinson, Felipe Contepomi, Williams and Giteau, how will the 118kg big man fit into the three quarter position?
Yes, sure, Mason has played some good football in his past, using his big frame to make the advantage line and working creative offloads around the ruck.
However, a long time has elapsed since the days when the young Willie was a force to be reckoned with, as a position in the south of France awaits his now lacklustre career.
In my opinion, he would have more success following the latest in code-switch trends into AFL.
Now, I’ve always been told it’s never over till the fat lady sings, but the writing looks to be on the wall for Big Willie and it looks as if his latest move shows he knows it too.
And who could blame him. Playing rugby in a one team town on the south coast of France for half the year doesn’t sound all that bad. Not to mention being paid more than double what any NRL club would offer him these days.
It looks to be his one last dash at the retirement fund before he disappears from professional football.
However, this could be a turn of events in his life, should he capture the same form, friend and former teammate Sonny Bill Williams found in European rugby.
Will we see big Willie back in the NRL or Super Rugby competition, perhaps taking on the likes of Quade Cooper and Kurtley Beale?
Only time will tell for the player fans from all codes have loved to hate.
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