The Knights have bolstered their outside back ranks for the 2026 season, securing Asu Kepaoa on a two-year deal.
Kepaoa, 25, brings proven first grade experience, having debuted in 2020 at the Wests Tigers and later joining Penrith, where he impressed in reserve grade with consistent try-scoring form.
Known for his power and athleticism, Kepaoa is comfortable at centre, wing and back-row, giving the Knights a lot of flexibility.
Head of recruitment Peter O'Sullivan praised the acquisition in a statement made by the club on Friday.
"AJ has always been a player with great promise and ability," O’Sullivan said.
"AJ is a big body with a strong play two carry that will help get your sets rolling, combined with a proven track record of try scoring, we believe he has a lot of upside.
"We are excited to see what AJ can do here at the Knights."
Kepaoa's career has had its share of challenges, including injury setbacks and off-field controversy, but he's consistently rebounded and shown glimpses of his potential.
Now, Newcastle is offering him a platform to reignite his NRL career, and expectations are high for his impact on the squad.
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Kepaoa joins Matthew Hunter, who has earned a development contract and is earmarked as a future star for the club's halves rotation.
He will also join high-profile recruit Dylan Brown as part of the 2026 roster, who signed the most lucrative deal in NRL history earlier this year.