Leicester Tigers have signed hulking USA worldwide tighthead prop Tonga Kofe forward of the 2025/26 season.
The 29-year-old makes the transfer from Major League Rugby facet Utah Warriors. The Herriman based mostly facet completed prime of the Western Convention in 2025.
Kofe will definitely add dimension to the Tigers pack. The 6’2, 143kg tighthead has gained three caps for the USA Eagles since switching to rugby union after a background in American soccer and wrestling.
He featured 16 instances for Utah within the 2025 season, scoring two tries and making 128 tackles throughout 792 minutes.
The large front-rower turned out in opposition to England through the summer time. He’s the heaviest prop at Welford Highway for the reason that departure of 149kg Nephi Leatigaga.
“Becoming a member of Leicester Tigers is greater than only a new chapter, it’s the results of years of exhausting work, setbacks, and sacrifices,” mentioned Kofe. “This membership represents custom, pleasure, and a relentless commonplace, and I’m prepared to provide every little thing I’ve bought to be a part of that.
“I haven’t taken the straightforward highway to get right here, and I carry that starvation with me each time I step onto the pitch.”
He added: “The Tigers have the perfect followers within the league — passionate, loyal, and loud — and I can’t wait to play in entrance of them and earn their respect by leaving all of it on the market, week in and week out. Let’s work.”
Leicester head coach Geoff Parling mentioned: “Tonga is a prop who’s late to rugby however who we expect has large potential. He’s bodily very robust, however from chatting with his coaches in America, it’s his willingness to be taught that stands out. We’re actually wanting ahead to welcoming Tonga, his spouse, and their daughter, Lisa Rose, to Mattioli Woods Welford Highway.”
