Paul Gallen beats Sonny Bill Williams by split decision as Mundine-Green rivalry flares
Gallen was awarded a tight split decision victory, but despite the bad blood spilled over the past few weeks, they shook hands - and exchanged plenty of words during a long, tense, standoff.
One judge scored it 77-74 Gallen, the second went 77-74 to SBW, with the third and decisive judge giving Gallen the nod 76-75.
Paul Gallen and Sonny Bill Williams talk after their heavyweight bout. Picture: Getty Images
'I got the win, that'll be there forever,' Gallen said.
'At the end of the day I'm 44 in a month. I've finished my fights.
'I'm not going to bring it up or carry on. I'm not going to gloat. It's been a long time coming.
'I got the job done, that's all that matters.'
Sonny Bill Williams punches Paul Gallen. Picture: Getty Images
While SBW quickly left the ring after Gallen's win was announced, the premiership-winning Sharks captain said he'd meet with the dual international - after he had the chance to put up his feet.
'I sincerely wish the best to him and his family,' he said. 'We might not break bread but I'll have a coffee and meet him man to man.
'I can't wait to go back to being a dad. The last few months have been so consuming.
Relive the action from the highly-anticipated fight night in our blog below.
Originally published as Paul Gallen vs. Sonny Bill Williams super fight: Gallen scores close win over SBW as Mundine-Green rivalry flares
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