NRL coach is accused of grabbing reporter by the THROAT as league’s Las Vegas showpiece is marred by more controversy

The NRL are reportedly investigating an alleged assault between a New Zealand Warriors coach and a reporter that reportedly took place in the press box of the Allegiant Stadium on Sunday.

The Warriors got their 2025 NRL season off to a poor start on Sunday in Las Vegas after they were beaten 30-8 by the Canberra Raiders.

But according to The Daily Telegraph that a British journalist has claimed to be ‘grabbed by the throat’ and verbally abused by Warriors assistant coach Richard Agar.

The outlet reports that the alleged incident took place as the Warriors staff walked through the press box towards the changing rooms at half-time.

The reporter requested not to be identified following the alleged incident but is understood to work for The Guardian and it is understood that a witness has given their backing to the story.

The NRL is also reportedly reviewing CCTV of the alleged incident.

Journalist Phil Rothfield stated that that alleged incident may relate to a previous disagreement between the pair back in 2022 over a report that the journalist wrote about Agar during his time with Leeds in the Super League.

Agar, 53, who also hails from the UK, has been working as an assistant under Andrew Webster since 2023 having left his role with Leeds the year prior.

In a statement issued to Daily Mail Australia, Warriors CEO Cameron George said: ‘Post game I was made aware of an alleged incident at halftime involving assistant coach Richard Agar and an English journalist.

‘This morning I had the opportunity to speak with the NRL Integrity Unit. They are working through their process which will include us.

‘I hope their process will be efficient and prompt so we can provide clarity on the matter.’