Every boxing fan knew two words were certain to be muttered in the aftermath of Sonny Bill Williams’ first-round annihilation of Barry Hall.
The words on everyone’s mind were Paul Gallen – the retired rugby league legend now hammering away as a heavyweight boxer.
A clash between Williams and Gallen – rugby league greats and multi-sport superstars whose animosity for each other runs deep – has teased the boxing world for more than a decade.
AS IT HAPPENED: SBW obliterates Hall in first-round domination
When Williams was asked for his plans following his destruction of Hall, a smirk immediately appeared on the 36-year-old’s face.
“There’s talk of Gallen, so maybe Gallen,” Williams said in the ring interview.
“At the same time, for me, there has to be an element of giving back, which gives me that happiness.”
Moments later, Williams was seen greeting Gallen in the crowd.
The sporting icons fist-pumped, had a brief hug and exchanged words that millions would want to have heard.
Fly-on-the-wall stuff.
“Here we go, here we go. The first conversation,” said Stan commentator Andy Raymond.
“Sonny Bill Williams and Paul Gallen at ringside.”
Although potentially pointless, panellist Darren McMullen gave an early tip.
“Based on what I’ve seen … early predictions, I mean, Sonny Bill would absolutely wipe the floor with Gallen, surely,” McMullen said.
Danny Green was torn.
“It’s a tough one to say,” said the former Australian boxing jet.
Williams had hinted at interest in facing Gallen on the cusp of his bout with Hall.
“The plan is to do this for 24 months and see where it takes me,” Williams had said.
“I know what your next question will be: is Paul Gallen a part of that?
“And definitely.”