Former Rugby League Star Curtis Scott Approved for Bare-Knuckle Boxing Match
Embattled former rugby league star Curtis Scott has received judicial approval to participate in a bare-knuckle boxing contest, despite facing serious assault allegations. The 28-year-old ex-Melbourne Storm and Canberra Raiders player was granted a bail variation with strict conditions, allowing him to fight in Brisbane later this month.
Alleged Altercation at Sydney Cricket Ground
Scott was arrested following an alleged violent incident at the Sydney Cricket Ground in March. Police reports indicate that he and his 55-year-old mother, Dianna Allen, assaulted an 18-year-old after an argument following a Sydney Swans AFL game. The teenager sustained facial injuries requiring paramedic treatment and hospitalisation.
When authorities attempted to intervene by stopping a tram at Moore Park, Scott allegedly assaulted a police officer, causing minor injuries, before fleeing the scene. He appeared at Sydney's Downing Centre Local Court on Wednesday, dressed in all black, pleading not guilty to charges of affray, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and assaulting a police officer.
Legal Arguments for Boxing Participation
Scott's solicitor, Paul McGirr, successfully petitioned the court to modify bail conditions to permit his client's participation in the upcoming bare-knuckle boxing match. McGirr emphasised that boxing represents Scott's primary source of income and professional craft, noting the former centre's transition to fighting after his NRL contract was terminated in 2021 following a nightclub altercation.
'He has a job and his main income is from fighting, sanctioned fights,' McGirr stated. 'This is his craft and this is what he's good at.' The lawyer highlighted Scott's abstinence from alcohol and commitment to weekly treatment, arguing that removing the nighttime curfew would enable legitimate employment in Queensland.
Prosecution Concerns and Judicial Decision
The prosecution opposed the bail variation, citing Scott's history of violence and the 'significant incident of violence' currently before the court. Judge Michael Allen acknowledged the alleged confrontation involved 'significant ferocity and force' and expressed concerns about community safety and potential reoffending.
However, the judge ultimately lifted the curfew, citing Scott's adherence to treatment programs and the structured nature of sanctioned boxing matches. This decision clears the path for Scott to compete while awaiting his next court appearance in May.
Additional Legal Proceedings
Scott's mother, Dianna Allen, faces separate charges of common assault and hindering a police officer in the execution of duty. She is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday and has not yet entered pleas. Meanwhile, Scott's rugby league career included 84 NRL games, notably contributing to Melbourne Storm's 2017 premiership victory before his controversial exit from the sport.
