“I Nearly Walked Away”: Zac Lomax Reveals Shock Fight Career Plans Amid Dragons Exit Drama
Parramatta Eels recruit Zac Lomax has sensationally revealed he came close to walking away from rugby league entirely amid his controversial exit from St George Illawarra, seriously weighing up a switch to professional combat sports. Speaking with Fox Sports Australia, the 25-year-old NSW Origin hopeful shared how his long-standing passion for boxing and mixed martial arts (MMA) nearly led him to abandon the NRL.
Lomax, who is eyeing a return from a foot injury in Round 11 against Newcastle, disclosed that during the turbulent period surrounding his departure from the Dragons in 2024, he considered pursuing a full-time career in the ring or cage. The decision, he said, was fuelled by his deep involvement in combat sports, including extensive training alongside UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski.
“Ah, yeah, that’s a tough one,” Lomax admitted with a smile when asked about the rumours of a potential code switch. “And who knows? I’m someone who likes to test myself as much as I can. That’s why I left my previous club—to see where my game can go.”
Behind the scenes, Lomax had been immersed in martial arts for years. He trained regularly in boxing, grappling, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, often three times a week at Volkanovski’s gym, and sparred consistently with former Australian super middleweight Tyler Sargent-Jackson. His dedication even saw him cornering Sargent-Jackson during a major boxing undercard in 2021, highlighting how serious he was about the sport.
Though ultimately committing to rugby league, Lomax said he explored a number of different life paths during his exit from the Dragons. “I was talking with my family about different scenarios and really weighing up where my passions were leaning.”
With the Origin series looming and just one round to impress selectors, Lomax now turns his focus back to the NRL—but hasn’t ruled out a combat sports crossover in the future.
