Terminates Newcastle Knight $1.2m offer due to  return to the Broncos….

Upton Declines Newcastle Knights’ $1.2 Million Offer, Rejoins Brisbane Broncos

In a major shake-up to the NRL Women’s Premiership, Mariah Upton, one of the league’s brightest talents, has reportedly declined a lucrative $1.2 million offer from the Newcastle Knights to make a sensational return to the Brisbane Broncos. The decision has sent shockwaves through the rugby league community, with fans and analysts alike questioning the motives behind the move.

The Knights’ Big Offer

The Knights were determined to retain Upton, who has been instrumental in their recent successes. The $1.2 million contract was a record-breaking deal for the women’s game, reflecting the club’s commitment to building a dynasty around Upton’s exceptional skills.

The offer would have made Upton one of the highest-paid players in the history of women’s rugby league, a move the Knights hoped would secure their dominance in the competition for years to come.

Why the Return to Brisbane?

Despite the financial allure, Upton’s decision to return to the Broncos appears to be driven by personal and professional reasons. She enjoyed tremendous success during her initial stint with the Broncos, helping the team to multiple NRLW titles.

“It’s about more than just money,” Upton said in a statement. “Brisbane is home for me. It’s where I feel I can play my best football and contribute to the team culture that means so much to me.”

The Broncos, who have been rebuilding their squad after a few challenging seasons, are thrilled to welcome Upton back. Her return is expected to reinvigorate the team and bolster their chances of reclaiming the NRLW premiership.

Impact on the Knights

Losing Upton is a significant blow to the Knights. The club will now have to reassess its roster and recruitment strategy as they aim to stay competitive without their marquee player.

“It’s disappointing, but we respect Mariah’s decision,” a Knights spokesperson said. “We’ll continue to focus on developing our squad and building on the success we’ve achieved.”

What’s Next for Upton?

Upton’s return to the Broncos marks a new chapter in her career. Fans will be eager to see how she performs under the spotlight, especially given the high expectations accompanying her decision.

For the NRLW, this move highlights the growing competitiveness and professionalism of the league, where decisions are increasingly influenced by more than just financial incentives.

With the 2024 NRLW season around the corner, all eyes will be on Upton as she dons the Broncos jersey once again, aiming to prove that home is indeed where the heart—and her best game—is.