Joe joined Leopards in April 2025 and made an immediate impact with some towering performances in the pack. A vastly experienced and highly respected NRL and State of Origin forward and an imposing physical presence, standing 6ft 3 and weighing over 18 stones, he has over 200 NRL appearances to his name and has represented Tonga on seven occasions. He has played for Queensland in three State of Origin games.

Auckland born of Tongan descent, Ofahengaue made his NRL debut for Brisbane Broncos in 2015 and over the course of six seasons as a first-grade regular clocked up over one hundred appearances. He then moved to Wests Tigers before joining Parramatta Eels during 2023.

After moving to Australia as a nine-year-old Ofahengaue played his junior rugby with Sydney Roosters and Brisbane Broncos and in 2014 represented Queensland under-20s and the Junior Kangaroos.

He marked his first season in first grade by playing in the NRL Grand Final when Broncos lost 17-16 in golden point extra time to a North Queensland Cowboys team that included ex-Leopards’ captain John Asiata. He completed a momentous breakthrough season by making his international debut for Tonga.

After establishing himself in first grade Ofahengaue stand-out, powerhouse performances saw him earn Queensland selection in 2019 and play a starring role in Tonga Invitational’s historic 16-12 victory over Australia in Auckland.

Ofahengaue won the Wests Tigers’ player of the year award in 2022 before leaving the club in mid-season 2023 to join Parramatta, for whom he played in the opening six rounds of the 2025 season before moving to the UK. In 2026 he was included in the Leopards’ leadership group, confirming the respect with which he is held at the club.