Roger Tuivasa-Sheck and after David Fifita officially signs next month. That means he’ll be representing their colors during the 2026 and 2027 seasons—a huge new chapter in his rugby league career. The 25-year-old forward has appeared in 90 contests for the Gold Coast Titans. Now, he’s set to re-connect with his old Brisbane Broncos mentor, Wayne Bennett. With this decision, comes a tremendous stretch at the Titans, where worries over Fifita’s future frequently hijacked his play.
Fifita’s recruitment saw him join the Gold Coast Titans in 2021 on a record setting contract. Sadly, he was never able to meet expectations in five years with the franchise. His 2025 season was perhaps even more disappointing. He appeared in just eight NRL games and played off the bench in six of those games. This reduced playing time came to a head with a demotion to the Queensland Cup before Thorne had ankle surgery.
Transition from Titans to Rabbitohs
Fifita’s departure from the Titans is one step in a roster change, something that has started under new coach Josh Hannay. Making enough room for promising youngsters to fill his spot would fit with the club’s desire to significantly refresh their core of players. Player happiness and wellbeing should be the priority. Hannay rightly made mention of player well-being in his statement announcing Fifita’s exit.
“The club wants to see David happy and playing football and a new opportunity will give him a chance to do that.” – Josh Hannay
Even though rejecting a contract with the Sydney Roosters last season, Fifita’s switch to the Rabbitohs has all the hallmarks of an excellent one. He’ll help lead a new team committed to learning their way to success this season and seasons beyond. Bennett a terrific offensive player, under Bennett’s direction he’ll really blossom in a positive atmosphere.
Reuniting with Wayne Bennett
For that reason, Fifita’s reunion with Wayne Bennett at the Rabbitohs is particularly thrilling. Bennett was the coach who first used him at the Broncos, handing Fifita his debut as an 18-year-old in 2018. The hand-in-glove relationship between the player and coach can lead to unexpected learnings and growth for both.
Adam Reynolds, a player who has worked closely with Bennett, spoke highly of the coach’s ability to connect with his players.
“Wayne is a magnificent coach who gets people and he understands the person before the athlete.” – Adam Reynolds
That collective wisdom will go a long way as Fifita tries to reinvigorate his stuttering career at South Sydney.
Financial Aspects and Future Prospects
Terms of Fifita’s deal with the Rabbitohs remain under wraps. The Gold Coast Titans will continue contributing to his salary, smoothing the financial transition for South Sydney.
As he sets out on this new odyssey, Fifita’s future could scarcely be more promising. His move to the Rabbitohs gives him an opportunity to right those wrongs and resurrect his career. It would land him in a competitive market that would help realize his full potential.
