Sonny Bill Williams’ focus is remaining on the much-anticipated bout against Paul Gallen. 

Animosity has been building between the two former rugby players turned boxers, with Williams even claiming Gallen thinks he’s above Polynesians. 

He joined Piney in studio to discuss his preparations for the fight, and the tensions between him and his opponent.  

“I think the reason this grudge match is so big is because of, y’know, the animosity that’s been brewing for the last ten years,” Williams said. 

“Every opportunity he has, he’s taking digs at me.” 

LISTEN ABOVE 

Sonny Bill Williams’ focus is remaining on the much-anticipated bout against Paul Gallen.&nbsp;
Animosity has been building between the two former rugby players turned boxers, with Williams even claiming Gallen thinks he’s above Polynesians.&nbsp;
He joined Piney in studio to discuss his preparations for the fight, and the tensions between him and his opponent. &nbsp;
“I think the reason this grudge match is so big is because of, y’know, the animosity that’s been brewing for the last ten years,” Williams said.&nbsp;
“Every opportunity he has, he’s taking digs at me.”&nbsp;
LISTEN ABOVE&nbsp;

Weekend Sport with Jason Pine on Newstalk ZB brings you all the action and reaction to the sporting weekend.

Weekend Sport with Jason Pine

Sonny Bill Williams: Kiwi boxer on his animosity with Paul Gallen ahead of their fight

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/69e350b9-cd65-4357-b7ed-b2fc003a485d/transcript

Busy times ahead for the Black Caps.  

They're preparing for their three-match ODI series against India, followed by the five-match T20 series that serves as ideal preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup. 

The squad features several new faces, including debutants Jaden Lennox and Christian Clarke, and is captained by Michael Bracewell. 

The first test is taking place at India's Kotambi Stadium – a 40,000 seat stadium that reportedly sold out within minutes of the game being announced. 

Bracewell told Piney it’s going to be a pretty exciting opportunity to play in front of 40,000 fans, and perhaps a new one for some of the guys in the squad. 

LISTEN ABOVE 

Busy times ahead for the Black Caps. &nbsp;
They're preparing for their three-match ODI series against India, followed by the five-match T20 series that serves as ideal preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup.&nbsp;
The squad features several new faces, including debutants Jaden Lennox and Christian Clarke, and is captained by Michael Bracewell.&nbsp;
The first test is taking place at India's Kotambi Stadium – a 40,000 seat stadium that reportedly sold out within minutes of the game being announced.&nbsp;
Bracewell told Piney it’s going to be a pretty exciting opportunity to play in front of 40,000 fans, and perhaps a new one for some of the guys in the squad.&nbsp;
LISTEN ABOVE&nbsp;

Michael Bracewell: Black Caps captain ahead of the three-match ODI series against India

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/2cc1db6b-825b-4bb6-bd78-b3ce002dc8be/transcript

On the Weekend Sport with Jason Pine Full Show Podcast for 10th of January 2026, New Zealand’s community sport clubs may be in trouble. Gordon Noble-Campbell broke down the Incorporated Societies Act, and Gary Moller delved into the slow demise of physical clubs.  

Bill Tuiloma has signed a two and a half year deal with the Wellington Phoenix, joining Piney to talk about it and the upcoming FIFA World Cup. 

And the Black Caps are preparing for their three-match ODI series against India – Captain Michael Bracewell joining Piney to discuss their goals for the series.  

Get the Weekend Sport with Jason Pine Full Show Podcast every Saturday and Sunday afternoon on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

LISTEN ABOVE 

On the Weekend Sport with Jason Pine Full Show Podcast for 10th of January 2026, New Zealand’s community sport clubs may be in trouble. Gordon Noble-Campbell broke down the Incorporated Societies Act, and Gary Moller delved into the slow demise of physical clubs. &nbsp;
Bill Tuiloma has signed a two and a half year deal with the Wellington Phoenix, joining Piney to talk about it and the upcoming FIFA World Cup.&nbsp;
And the Black Caps are preparing for their three-match ODI series against India – Captain Michael Bracewell joining Piney to discuss their goals for the series. &nbsp;
Get the Weekend Sport with Jason Pine Full Show Podcast every Saturday and Sunday afternoon on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.&nbsp;
LISTEN ABOVE&nbsp;

Full Show Podcast: 10 January 2026 

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/db5d3b84-7b4f-4266-8c34-b3ce00247c15/transcript

A decisive Ashes victory for Australia. 

They crushed England 4-1, clinching the final test in the series by five wickets.  

Australia were spurred to the win by an incredible series from middle order-turned opening batsman Travis Head, and the ageless Michell Starc. 

Our Australian Correspondent Adam Peacock joined Piney to recap the series. 

LISTEN ABOVE 

A decisive Ashes victory for Australia.&nbsp;
They crushed England 4-1, clinching the final test in the series by five wickets. &nbsp;
Australia were spurred to the win by an incredible series from middle order-turned opening batsman Travis Head, and the ageless Michell Starc.&nbsp;
Our Australian Correspondent Adam Peacock joined Piney to recap the series.&nbsp;
LISTEN ABOVE&nbsp;

Adam Peacock: Australia Correspondent recaps the Ashes series

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/fa6299e6-d788-418f-858e-b3ce00275316/transcript

Sonny Bill Williams: Kiwi boxer on his animosity with Paul Gallen ahead of their fight

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