Parramatta Eels prop Junior Paulo has undergone a significant transformation ahead of the 2025 NRL season, shedding over 10 kilograms during the off-season. The veteran forward made the decision to slim down in an effort to better manage injuries and improve his overall performance on the field.
Paulo, known for his imposing size and physicality, has always been a key component of the Eels’ forward pack. However, recurring injuries and the demands of the modern game prompted him to take a different approach to his fitness. By dropping weight and focusing on agility and endurance, the 30-year-old aims to extend his career and maintain peak performance throughout the season.
“I just wanted to feel lighter on my feet and reduce the stress on my body,” Paulo said in a recent interview. “Carrying extra weight can take a toll, especially over a long season. This off-season was about making sure I can play my best footy and stay on the field as much as possible.”
The transformation hasn’t come easy. Paulo committed to an intense training regimen, incorporating more cardio, strength conditioning, and a refined diet to optimize his fitness. He has credited the Eels’ high-performance staff for guiding him through the process and ensuring he maintains his strength while improving mobility.
Eels coach Brad Arthur has taken notice of Paulo’s dedication and believes it will pay dividends for the team. “Junior has put in the hard work, and you can see the results,” Arthur said. “He’s moving better, looks more explosive, and is in the best shape we’ve seen him in a long time. That’s only going to benefit him and the team.”
Teammates have also been impressed with Paulo’s commitment and the energy he has brought into pre-season training. Fellow forward Reagan Campbell-Gillard noted that the lighter Paulo has been “hitting just as hard” but is covering more ground, making him an even more valuable asset to the squad.
With the 2025 season approaching, expectations are high for both Paulo and the Eels. Having fallen just short in previous campaigns, Parramatta is keen to mount a serious premiership challenge, and a rejuvenated Junior Paulo will play a crucial role in their ambitions. Fans have already expressed their excitement, noting his improved fitness as a positive sign for the team’s chances.
While the proof will be in his performances on the field, Paulo’s hard work during the off-season has set the foundation for what could be one of his best seasons yet. If he can maintain his fitness and continue to dominate in the middle of the field, Parramatta’s title hopes will only be strengthened.
For now, Paulo remains focused on taking it one game at a time. “I feel great, and I’m ready to go,” he said. “The real test will be once we get into the grind of the season, but I’m confident all the work will pay off.”
