Joseph Leilua

Leilua was born in Sydney, Australia, and is of Samoan descent.

Leilua played his junior rugby league for Hurstville United before being signed by the St. George Illawarra Dragons. In 2010, Leilua joined the Sydney Roosters. Leilua played for the Roosters' NYC team in 2010, scoring 3 tries in 4 games.{{cite web| url = http://www.rleague.com//db/player/l/leilua_joseph/index.php| title = Reference at www.rleague.com}} {{Cite web |url=http://www.rleague.com//db/player/l/leilua_joseph/index.php |title=Rleague.com - Leilua, Joseph |access-date=18 December 2012 |archive-date=18 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120618112732/http://www.rleague.com//db/player/l/leilua_joseph/index.php |url-status=bot: unknown }} In 2009, he played for the Australian Schoolboys team.{{cite web|url=http://www.ourfootyteam.com/assrl_09_18s_1stTest_v_greatBritainCommunityLions.php |title=Australian Schoolboys v Great Britain Community Young Lions – 1st Test aCTioN PHoTo'S |publisher=Ourfootyteam.com |access-date=18 June 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140429131144/http://www.ourfootyteam.com/assrl_09_18s_1stTest_v_greatBritainCommunityLions.php |archive-date=29 April 2014 }}

File:josephleilua.jpg

File:joeyleilua.jpg

In round 12 of the 2010 NRL season, Leilua made his NRL debut for the Sydney Roosters against the Gold Coast Titans off the interchange bench in the Roosters 30–16 win at Robina Stadium.{{cite web|url=http://www.couriermail.com.au/sport/nrl/sydney-roosters-beat-gold-coast-titans-30-16-in-nrl-round-12-match/story-e6frep5x-1225873720312|title=Sydney Roosters Beat Gold Coast Titans 30–16|publisher=Couriermail.com.au|access-date=20 June 2015}}{{cite web|url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/joseph-leiluas-journey-from-school-footy-to-nrl-finals-in-space-of-year/story-e6frg6n6-1225928030655|title=Joseph Leilua's Journey From School to NRL Finals in Space of Year|publisher=Theaustralian.com.au|access-date=20 June 2015}} In Round 19 against the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, Leilua scored his first and second NRL career tries in the Roosters 36–32 win at ANZ Stadium.{{cite news|url=http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/roosters-claw-back-to-pip-dogs-20100718-10g6z.html|title=Roosters claw back to pip Dogs|newspaper=Smh.com.au|access-date=18 June 2015}} On 3 October 2010, Leilua played in the Roosters 2010 NRL Grand Final against the St George Illawarra Dragons, Leilua played on the wing in the 32–8 loss.{{cite web|url=http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/nrl/roosters-lead-the-dragons-8-6-at-halftime-in-the-nrl-grand-final/story-e6frexnr-1225933487068|title=Roosters Lead the Dragons 8–6 at Halftime|publisher=Dailytelegraph.com.au|access-date=20 June 2015}} Leilua finished his debut year in the NRL with him playing in 17 matches and scoring 3 tries in the 2010 NRL season. Leilua was also selected in the New Zealand training squad for the 2010 Four Nations but did not make the final squad.{{cite web|url=http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-sport/new-zealand-squad-named-for-four-nations-20100906-14xkg.html|title=New Zealand squad named for Four Nations|publisher=News.smh.com.au|date=6 September 2010|access-date=18 June 2015}}

Leilua finished the 2011 NRL season with him playing in 23 matches and scoring 11 tries for the Roosters.{{cite web |url=https://www.itsrugby.co.uk/players/josephbj-leilua-19040.html |title=Joseph BJ LEILUA |publisher=Its rugby |access-date=5 January 2023}}

In January 2012, Leilua was named in the New South Wales Emerging Blues squad, pledging his allegiance to Australia.{{cite web|url=http://wwos.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=8401888|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150618195110/http://wwos.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=8401888|url-status=dead|archive-date=18 June 2015|title=Campese named in Emerging Blues squad|publisher=Wwos.ninemsn.com.au|access-date=18 June 2015}} On 22 April 2012, Leilua re-signed with the Roosters on a 2-year contract.{{cite web|url=http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-sport/nrl-roosters-resign-leilua-20120422-1xeng.html|title=NRL Roosters re-sign Leilua|publisher=News.smh.com.au|date=22 April 2012|access-date=18 June 2015}} Leilua was described as "one of the best on field" NSW City in the annual City vs Country Origin match, playing centre in the 24–22 win at Mudgee.{{cite news| work= Sydney Morning Herald| title='Bad attitude' BJ let go by Roosters| author=Michael Chammas| url=http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/bad-attitude-bj-let-go-by-roosters-20121218-2bkus.html|access-date=19 July 2015|date=18 December 2012}}{{cite web|url=http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/nrl/lowdown-on-city-country-clash/story-e6frexnr-1226335450269|title=Lowdown on City-Country Clash|publisher=Dailytelegraph.com.au|access-date=20 June 2015}} In Game 1 of the 2012 State of Origin series, Leilua was named 19th man for the New South Wales team.{{cite web|url=http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/nrl/nsw-captain-paul-gallen-almost-certain-to-play-state-of-origin-i/story-e6frexv9-1226361661461|title=NSW Captain Paul Gallen Almost Certain to Play|publisher=Dailytelegraph.com.au|access-date=20 June 2015}} Leilua finished the 2012 NRL season with him playing in 19 matches and scoring 6 tries. At the end of the year, Leilua was again named in the New South Wales Emerging Blues squad.{{cite web|url=http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/nrl/nsw-blues-2013-emerging-state-of-origin-squad-revealed/story-e6frexv9-1226537190715|title=NSW Blues 2013 Emerging State of Origin Squad|publisher=Dailytelegraph.com.au|access-date=20 June 2015}} In October 2012, Leilua was arrested after being accused of breaching an AVO, spitting on his ex-girlfriend, and distributing lewd photos of her.{{cite news| work= Sydney Morning Herald| title=Leilua charged with assaulting ex-girlfriend| author=Michael Carayannis, Emma Partridge| url=http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/leilua-charged-with-assaulting-exgirlfriend-20120528-1zfgg.html|access-date=19 July 2015|date=29 May 2012}} He was released on $6000 bail. He was then placed on a one-year good behaviour bond after being found guilty of sending nude photos of his former girlfriend to her brother and a friend.{{Cite web|url=https://www.theleader.com.au/story/418927/roosters-star-joseph-bj-leilua-on-12-month-good-behaviour-bond/|title=Roosters star Joseph BJ Leilua on 12-month good behaviour bond|date=24 October 2012}} On 18 December 2012, Leilua was released from his Roosters contract due to disciplinary reasons.{{cite news|author=Michael Chammas|url=http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/bad-attitude-bj-let-go-by-roosters-20121218-2bkus.html|title=Joseph 'BJ' Leilua sacked by Roosters|newspaper=Smh.com.au|date=18 December 2012|access-date=18 June 2015}} On 22 December 2012, Leilua joined the Newcastle Knights.{{cite web|url=http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/nrl/why-sacked-rooster-bj-leilua-joined-wayne-bennetts-newcastle-knights-school-of-reform/story-e6frexnr-1226542430936|title=Why Sacked Rooster BJ Leilua Joined Wayne Bennett's Newcastle Knights School of Reform|publisher=Dailytelegraph.com.au|access-date=20 June 2015}}

On 5 March 2013, Leilua officially signed a two-year contract with the Newcastle Knights starting in the same year.{{cite web|url=http://www.zerotackle.com/nrl/knights-officially-sign-joseph-leilua-8668/ |title=Knights officially sign Joseph Leilua | NRL |publisher=Zerotackle.com |date=5 March 2013 |access-date=18 June 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130308152401/http://www.newcastleknights.com.au/news-display/Knights-officially-sign-Joseph-Leilua/69291 |archive-date= 8 March 2013 }} In Round 6 of the 2013 NRL season, Leilua made his club debut for the Newcastle Knights against the Penrith Panthers at centre in the Knights 8–6 win at Hunter Stadium.{{cite news|author=Brett Keeble|url=http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/smith-in-strife-as-knights-nullify-panthers-20130413-2hsj3.html|title=Smith in strife as Knights nullify Panthers|newspaper=Smh.com.au|date=13 April 2013|access-date=18 June 2015}}

After playing a few more weeks playing in the Knights New South Wales Cup team, Leilua cemented his centre position after regular centre Timana Tahu was dropped to the New South Wales Cup for the rest of the season. Leilua return to the Knights first grade squad in round 10 against the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, scoring his first club try for the Knights in the 44–8 win at Hunter Stadium.{{cite web|url=http://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nrl-premiership/rampant-newcastle-knights-destroy-quiet-canterbury-bankstown-bulldogs/story-fn2mcuj6-1226646228066|title=Rampant Newcastle Knights Destroy Quiet Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs|publisher=Foxsports.com.au|access-date=20 June 2015}} Leilua finished his first season with the Newcastle Knights with him playing in 19 matches and scoring 13 tries. He was selected to represent Samoa in the 2013 Rugby League World Cup, held in England and Wales.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-league/24468387|title=BBC Sport – Rugby League World Cup 2013: Samoa name Super League duo|publisher=Bbc.co.uk|date=9 October 2013|access-date=18 June 2015}} Leilua made his international debut for Samoa against New Zealand at centre, scoring a try in Samoa's 42–24 loss at Halliwell Jones Stadium.{{cite web|last=Cartwright|first=Phil|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/rugby-league/24684984|title=BBC Sport – Rugby League World Cup 2013: New Zealand 42–24 Samoa|publisher=Bbc.com|date=27 October 2013|access-date=18 June 2015}} Leilua played in all 4 matches and scored a try in the tournament.

In February 2014, Leilua was selected in the Knights inaugural 2014 Auckland Nines squad.{{cite web|url=http://rugbyleagueweek.com.au/squads-auckland-nines/|title=Squads For Auckland Nines|publisher=Rugbyleagueweek.com.au|date=14 February 2014|access-date=18 June 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160115214258/http://rugbyleagueweek.com.au/squads-auckland-nines/|archive-date=15 January 2016}}

On 22 April 2014, Leilua re-signed with the Knights for a further two years, keeping him at the club until the end of the 2016 season.{{cite web|url=http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/nrl/newcastle-centre-joey-leilua-rejects-warriors-bid-and-resigns-with-knights/story-fni3gf5j-1226857340428|title=Newcastle Centre Joey Leilua Rejects Warriors Bid and Re-signs with Knights|publisher=Dailytelegraph.com.au|access-date=20 June 2015}}{{cite web|url=http://www.zerotackle.com/nrl/joey-leilua-re-signs-with-knights-13061/|title=Joey Leilua re-signs with Knights | NRL|publisher=Zerotackle.com|date=22 April 2014|access-date=18 June 2015|archive-date=18 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150618201725/http://www.zerotackle.com/nrl/joey-leilua-re-signs-with-knights-13061/|url-status=dead}}

In round 26 against the St George Illawarra Dragons, Leilua played his 100th NRL career match, scoring a try in Newcastle's 40–10 win at Hunter Stadium.{{cite web|url=http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/nrl/newcastle-knights-finish-season-on-high-with-thrashing-of-toothless-st-george-illawarra-dragons/story-fni3fbgz-1227050569706|title=Newcastle Knights finish season on high with thrashing of toothless St George Illawarra Dragons|publisher=Dailytelegraph.com.au|access-date=20 June 2015}} Leilua finished the season with him playing in 22 matches and scoring 11 tries . On 7 October 2014, Leilua was selected in the Samoa final 24-man squad for the 2014 Four Nations series.{{cite web|url=http://www.nrl.com/toa-samoa-name-four-nations-squad/tabid/10874/newsid/82434/default.aspx|title=Toa Samoa name Four Nations squad|publisher=NRL.com|date=7 October 2014|access-date=18 June 2015}} Leilua played in all 3 matches and scored a try in the tournament.

In the pre-season, Leilua was reportedly on the outer with new Knights coach Rick Stone, after he returned to training overweight and was rumoured to have had a run-in with the senior Newcastle player Beau Scott about his attitude and fitness.{{cite web|url=http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/nrl/teams/knights/unfit-joey-leilua-faces-chop-says-newcastle-knights-coach-rick-stone/news-story/0bdbbcdba517614738d908178ee7f057|title='Unfit' Joey Leilua faces chop, says Newcastle Knights coach Rick Stone|publisher=Dailytelegraph.com.au|date=13 February 2015|access-date=15 October 2016}}{{cite news|url=http://www.news.com.au/sport/nrl/knights/joey-leilua-released-from-newcastle-contract-ahead-of-anticipated-move-to-canberra/news-story/f4f46a456449e7aadf51225c92718479|title=Knights target new signing as Leilua joins Raiders|work=News.com.au|date=15 June 2015|access-date=15 October 2016}} On 2 May, Leilua played for Samoa against Tonga in the 2015 Polynesian Cup, playing at centre in Samoa's 18–16 win at Robina Stadium.{{cite web|url=http://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/video-sam-kasiano-try-saving-tackle-on-jorge-taufua-secures-pacific-test-win-for-samoan-against-tonga/story-e6frf3ou-1227331678892|title=Sam Kasiano Try Saving Tackle Secures Pacific Test Win for Samoan's Against Tonga|publisher=Foxsports.com.au|access-date=20 June 2015}}{{cite web|url=http://www.nrl.com/representative-round-team-lists/tabid/10874/newsid/85557/default.aspx|title=Representative Round team lists|publisher=NRL.com|date=3 May 2015|access-date=18 June 2015}}

On 14 May 2015, Leilua executed a clause in his contract, releasing him from the final year of his Newcastle contract, making him a free agent for 2016.{{cite web|url=http://www.newcastleknights.com.au/news/2015/05/14/leilua_departing_at_.html|title=Leilua departing at season's end – Knights|date=14 May 2015 |publisher=Newcastleknights.com.au|access-date=18 June 2015}}

On 15 June 2015, Leilua was granted a release from his 2015 contract mid-season, allowing him to join his new team effective immediately.{{cite web|url=http://www.newcastleknights.com.au/news/2015/06/15/knights_and_leilua_p.html|title=Knights and Leilua part ways – Knights|date=14 June 2015 |publisher=Newcastleknights.com.au|access-date=18 June 2015}} On 17 June 2015, Leilua joined the Canberra Raiders mid-season for the rest of the year.{{cite web|url=http://www.raiders.com.au/news/2015/06/17/raiders_sign_joseph_.html|title=Sign Joseph Leilua|date=17 June 2015 |publisher=Raiders.com.au|access-date=18 June 2015}} In Round 16, Leilua made his club debut for the Canberra Raiders against the New Zealand Warriors, playing off the interchange bench in the Raiders 30–8 loss at Mount Smart Stadium.{{cite web|url=http://www.raiders.com.au/news/2015/06/27/nrl_late_mail_raider.html|title=NRL Late Mail: Raiders v Warriors|date=27 June 2015 |publisher=Raiders.com.au|access-date=27 June 2015}}{{cite web|url=http://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/seasons/nrl-2015/round-16/warriors-vs-canberra/summary.html|title=NRL 2015 – Round 16|publisher=Rugby League Project|access-date=18 September 2015}} Leilua finished off the 2015 NRL season, having played in 19 games, 13 for Newcastle and 6 for Canberra, and scoring 6 tries, all for the Knights.{{cite web|url=http://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/matches/Custom/MTUtMTY2MC00LS0tLS0tMTQ5OTQtLS0tLS0tLS0tLS0t|title=Custom Match List|publisher=Rugby League Project|access-date=18 September 2015}}{{cite web|url=http://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/matches/Custom/Mi0xNjYwLTQtLS0tLS0xNDk5NC0tLS0tLS0tLS0tLS0=|title=Custom Match List|publisher=Rugby League Project|date=19 August 2015|access-date=18 September 2015}} On 13 November 2018, Leilua re-signed with the Raiders on a 3-year contract.{{cite web|url=http://www.zerotackle.com/nrl/raiders-re-sign-joey-leilua-19683/#9YezMtEuUdb09CUB.97|title=Raiders re-sign Joey Leilua | NRL|publisher=Zero Tackle|access-date=14 November 2015|archive-date=16 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151116015023/http://www.zerotackle.com/nrl/raiders-re-sign-joey-leilua-19683/#9YezMtEuUdb09CUB.97|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|author=Jon Tuxworth|url=http://www.canberratimes.com.au/rugby-league/canberra-raiders/nrl-joey-leilua-resigns-with-canberra-raiders-until-end-of-2018-20151112-gky0ru.html|title=NRL: Fitter, leaner Joey Leilua re-signs with Canberra Raiders for three years|publisher=Canberratimes.com.au|date=13 November 2015|access-date=23 November 2015}}

In round 8 against the Wests Tigers, Leilua scored his first two tries for Canberra in their 60–6 win at Canberra Stadium.{{cite news|author=Jon Tuxworth|url=http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-match-report/nrl-jordan-rapana-runs-rampant-as-canberra-raiders-thrash-awful-tigers-20160423-godgiz.html|title=NRL: Jordan Rapana runs rampant as Canberra Raiders thrash awful Tigers|newspaper=Smh.com.au|date=13 February 2013|access-date=24 April 2016}} During the season, Leilua and his wing partner Jordan Rapana became one of the most destructive duos of year, scoring and setting up some fantastic tries and their strong friendship outside the footy field labelling them as "Leipana".{{cite web|url=http://www.canberratimes.com.au/rugby-league/canberra-raiders/the-leipana-bromance-between-jordan-rapana-and-joey-leilua-driving-the-canberra-raiders-finals-charge-20160818-gqvwr0.html|title=The 'Leipana' bromance between Jordan Rapana and Joey Leilua driving the Canberra Raiders' finals charge|first=David|last=Polkinghorne|date=16 September 2016|website=Canberratimes.com.au=|access-date=25 August 2017}}{{cite web|url=http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/nrl/teams/raiders/getting-to-know-jordan-rapana-and-joey-leilua-the-most-devastating-duo-in-the-nrl/news-story/4085529f6f9edddf1f225dffd1a1f399|title=Raiders jokers keep doing serious damage|website=Dailytelegraph.com.au|access-date=25 August 2017}}

In round 26 against the Wests Tigers, Leilua produced the pass of the season by scooping up a loose ball and was able to get an arm free in a tackle with Tigers winger Josh Addo-Carr on him to flick the ball behind his back to Jordan Rapana who finished off to score to the try in the 52–10 win at Leichhardt Oval.{{cite web|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nrl-video-raiders-centre-joseph-leilua-produces-the-pass-of-the-season/news-story/ae2a8bf4bbe4162fb570534ffce20462|title=NRL 2016 video: Raiders centre Joseph Leilua produces the pass of the season|date=4 September 2016|website=Foxsports.com.au|access-date=25 August 2017}} On 26 September 2016, Leilua was named the Australia 2016 Four Nations train-on squad but later dropped out due to a hamstring injury.{{cite web|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/injured-raider-joseph-leilua-sends-australian-coach-mal-meninga-message/news-story/57e7552e4ad96cd87ed163e474a4f5fe|title=Joseph Leilua sends Australian coach Mal Meninga Four Nations message|date=3 October 2016|website=Foxpsorts.com.au|access-date=25 August 2017}}{{cite web|url=http://www.canberratimes.com.au/rugby-league/canberra-raiders/mal-meninga-says-kangaroos-went-for-fit-players-ahead-of-jarrod-croker-and-joey-leilua-20161004-grufbb.html|title=Mal Meninga says injuries ruled Jarrod Croker and Joey Leilua out of Kangaroos|first=Chris|last=Dutton|date=4 October 2016|website=Canberratimes.com.au|access-date=25 August 2017}} On 28 September 2016, Leilua was named as the Centre of the Year at the 2016 Dally M Awards night, a significant uprise from being in the lows of falling out of favour at the Newcastle Knights at the start of 2015 NRL season.{{cite web|url=http://www.canberratimes.com.au/rugby-league/canberra-raiders/dally-m-medal-ricky-stuart-jarrod-croker-and-joey-leiluas-pain-eased-with-awards-20160928-grqmaq.html|title=Dally M Medal: Ricky Stuart, Jarrod Croker and Joey Leilua's pain eased with awards|first=Chris|last=Dutton|date=28 September 2016|website=Canberratimes.com.au|access-date=25 August 2017}}{{cite web|url=http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/i-wasnt-enjoying-footy-or-life-joey-leiluas-stunning-canberra-raiders-transformation-20160923-grmv0y.html|title=I wasn't enjoying footy or life: Joey Leilua's stunning Canberra Raiders transformation|first=Michael|last=Chammas|date=23 September 2016|website=Smh.com.au|access-date=25 August 2017|via=The Sydney Morning Herald}} Leilua finished his solid 2016 NRL season with him playing in 25 matches and scoring 11 tries for Canberra.

In round 6 against the Gold Coast Titans, Leilua played his 150th NRL career match and scored a try in the 42–16 win at Robina Stadium.{{cite web|url=http://www.canberratimes.com.au/rugby-league/canberra-raiders/canberra-raiders-coach-ricky-stuart-says-joey-leilua-is-the-best-right-centre-in-the-nrl-20170409-gvh0ff.html|title=Canberra Raiders coach Ricky Stuart says Joey Leilua is the best right centre in the NRL|first=David|last=Polkinghorne|date=9 April 2017|website=CAnberratimes.com.au|access-date=25 August 2017}} On 6 May 2017, Leilua played for Samoa in the test against England, starting at centre and scoring a try in the 30–10 loss at Campbelltown Stadium.{{cite web|url=http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/canberra-raiders-centre-joey-leilua-named-for-samoa-in-pacific-test-20170428-gvv3b3.html|title=Canberra Raiders centre Joey Leilua named for Samoa in Pacific Test|first=Caden|last=Helmers|date=28 April 2017|website=Smh.com.au|access-date=25 August 2017|via=The Sydney Morning Herald}}{{cite web|url=http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/nrl/james-graham-josh-hodgson-have-led-england-to-victory-over-samoa/news-story/4126c6c23ef7acc51890a3b0e03479d9|title=NRL stars deliver for Bennett's England|website=Dailytelegraph.com.au|access-date=25 August 2017}} On 7 June 2017, Leilua extended his contract with the Canberra club to the end of the 2020 season.{{cite web|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nrl-premiership/canberra-raiders-resign-joey-leilua-as-nrl-retention-drive-continues/news-story/71ab11c0463e669dde47305720d8635f|title=Joey Leilua Canberra Raiders re-signs as NRL contract drive continues ahead of 2018 season|date=7 June 2017|website=Foxpsorts.com.au|access-date=25 August 2017}} Leilua finished the 2017 NRL season with him playing in 24 matches and scoring 10 tries for the Raiders. On 6 October 2017, Leilua was selected in the 24-man squad for Samoa in the 2017 Rugby League World Cup.{{cite web|url=https://www.nrl.com/news/2017/10/06/papalii-pritchard-in-samoa-squad/|title=Lafai, Winterstein into Samoa squad|date=6 October 2017|website=nrl.com|access-date=31 August 2018}} Leilua played in all 4 matches, starting at centre in Samoa's disappointing campaign.{{cite web|url=http://www.news.com.au/sport/parish-not-even-milford-could-have-been-samoas-saviour-after-disappointing-rlwc-effort/news-story/a5758bf8598a89b8bec580ca95feefaa|title=Samoa coach rues wasteful RLWC campaign|website=news.com.au|access-date=31 August 2018}}{{cite web |url=https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/nrl/teams/raiders/canberra-raiders-players-josh-papalii-and-joey-leilua-in-nrl-preseason-hell-after-rlwc-blowout/news-story/e510e6b3aac6020e8fd52e5f3078b1c4 |title=Canberra Raiders players Josh Papalii and Joey Leilua in NRL preseason hell after RLWC blowout |publisher=Daily Telegraph |date=13 December 2017 |access-date=24 November 2021}} At the end of the season, there was rumours that Leilua was set to be forced out of Canberra to join the Gold Coast Titans to ease their salary cap after a hot-and-cold mixed form year.{{cite web|url=https://www.smh.com.au/sport/nrl/gold-coast-titans-earmark-canberra-raiders-centre-joey-leilua-as-jarryd-haynes-replacement-20171110-gziwl0.html|title=Gold Coast Titans earmark Canberra Raiders centre Joey Leilua as Jarryd Hayne's replacement|first=Adrian|last=Proszenko|date=10 November 2017|website=The Sydney Morning Herald|access-date=31 August 2018}}

After playing in the World Cup, Leilua along with Samoan representative team-mates Josh Papalii and Junior Paulo were confronted by coach Ricky Stuart after they arrived at pre-season training overweight, the trio were forced to join the dreaded "Fat Club", doing extra cardio training sessions to get back into a respectable weight. On 23 June 2018, Leilua played for Samoa in the Polynesian Cup against Tonga, playing at centre in the 38–22 win at Campbelltown Stadium.{{Cite web|url=https://www.smh.com.au/sport/nrl/tonga-delight-sea-of-red-in-campbelltown-with-win-over-samoa-20180623-p4znc4.html|title=Tonga delight sea of red in Campbelltown with win over Samoa|date=23 June 2018}}

In round 17 against the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, Leilua scored the winning try with a minute to go after the Raiders scored 3 tries in 6 minutes to fulltime from a 28–14 deficit at Canterbury's spiritual home ground of Belmore Oval. After scoring the try, Leilua taunted Bulldogs defenders, brothers Josh and Brett Morris in which Leilua was criticised by coach Ricky Stuart and Parramatta Eels legend Peter Sterling, Sterling commenting, but it was the post-try spray he gave the Morris brothers that raised Sterling's hackles the most. "This is Josh and Brett Morris, who have done everything in the game and achieved a whole lot more than BJ looks like he will," "You don't disrespect those kinds of players in those situations where you've been poor yourself up until that moment."{{Cite web|url=https://wwos.nine.com.au/nrl/nrl-peter-sterling-unleashes-on-selfish-raiders-centre-joey-leilua/c1e21ef4-3df2-4606-b2d0-5165d18396d9|title=Sterlo's savage take on BJ Leilua}} On 26 September 2018, Leilua was a shock winner of the Centre of the Year award after beaten clear favourite, the Sydney Roosters boom youngster Latrell Mitchell.{{Cite web|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nrl-premiership/dally-m-awards-2018-fans-erupt-over-josh-jackson-and-joey-leiluas-inclusions-in-team-of-the-year/news-story/fb6028aa12c1867fd39927d000871d39|title=Dally M Awards 2018: Fans erupt over Josh Jackson and Joey Leilua's inclusions in team of the year|date=26 September 2018}} Leilua finished his rocks and diamonds 2018 NRL season with him playing in all of Canberra's 24 matches and being their highest try-scorer with 14 tries.

Leilua began the 2019 NRL season in good form scoring 4 tries in 7 games as the club sat in the top 4 of the competition in the opening rounds. In round 7 against Manly, Leilua was taken from the field during the club's 24–20 loss. Scans later revealed that Leilua had suffered a neck injury and was ruled out for the season.{{cite web|url=https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/6114792/is-leiluas-season-over/|title=Canberra Raiders star Joey Leilua's NRL season could be over|website=Canberra Times|date=9 May 2019}}{{cite web|url=https://www.nrl.com/news/2019/05/28/emotional-whitehead-happy-for-wightons-career-turnaround/|title=Emotional Whitehead happy for Wighton's career turnaround|website=NRL.com|date=28 May 2019}} In round 22, Leilua would make a shock early return to play his 200th game in Canberra's 18–22 win over the Melbourne Storm at AAMI Park.

Leilua played a total of 12 games for Canberra as the club reached their first grand final in 25 years. Leilua played at centre in the 2019 NRL Grand Final as Canberra were defeated 14–8 by the Sydney Roosters at ANZ Stadium.{{cite web|url=https://www.smh.com.au/sport/nrl/nrl-grand-final-player-ratings-roosters-and-raiders-hits-and-misses-20191006-p52y53.html/|title=NRL grand final player ratings: Roosters and Raiders hits and misses|website=SMH|date=6 October 2019}}{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-league/49950757/|title=Sydney Roosters beat Canberra Raiders to win NRL Grand Final|work=BBC Sport }}{{cite web|url=https://wwos.nine.com.au/nrl/grand-final-ricky-stuart-reaction-canberra-raiders-six-again-jack-wighton/ae39b639-d375-4608-89a6-af6285c3d635/|title=How Ricky Stuart reacted to grand final 'six-again' refereeing shocker|website=WWOS}}

After five seasons playing in the nation's capital, Leilua signed a three-year deal with Wests Tigers where his brother Luciano is currently playing, beginning in the 2020 NRL season.{{cite web|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/signed-sealed-and-delivered-joey-leilua-signs-threeyear-deal-with-wests-tigers/news-story/41a835c44eac3826fabaca1b13bcced6/|title=Signed, sealed and delivered: Joey Leilua signs three-year deal with Wests Tigers|website=Fox Sports|date=27 January 2020}}

At that time, he was asked by the media "Who is the best centre in the NRL?" Leilua responded by saying "You’re looking at him. If you're talking about who's the best... you're looking at him. I won’t sugar coat that, it’s not funny, I always said if I really want it I can do it. The only thing that stopped me last year was my injury. I was going towards that, being the best, then unfortunately got a serious injury."{{cite web|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nrl-premiership/teams/tigers/whos-the-best-centre-in-the-nrl-youre-looking-at-him-tigers-new-recruit-does-not-lack-confidence/news-story/be333415ec74965724a2d10100a1d5a9/|title=Who's the best centre in the NRL? 'You're looking at him': Tigers' new recruit does not lack confidence|website=www.foxsports.com.au|date=5 March 2020}}

Leilua made his debut for Wests against St. George Illawarra in round 1 of the 2020 NRL season at WIN Stadium. Wests went on to win the match 24–14.{{cite web|url=https://www.nrl.com/news/2020/03/15/benji-brilliant-as-tigers-down-dropsy-dragons/|title=Benji brilliant as Tigers down dropsy dragons|website=www.foxsports.com.au|date=15 March 2020}}

In round 8 against Penrith, Leilua was sin binned after hitting Penrith player Dylan Edwards around the head in an off the ball incident. Fox Sports commentators Braith Anasta and Andrew Voss both shared their views on the incident with Anasta saying “Jeez he comes up with some dumb plays BJ, That is just so unnecessary". Voss then said “That’s just crap, He needs to settle down, he has to go for that,” Anasta added. “He does some stupid things and he doesn’t need to. It’s been his achilles heel his whole career Joey, he just can’t control his temperament".{{cite web|url=https://www.news.com.au/sport/nrl/wests-tigers-joseph-leilua-sin-binned-after-offtheball-coathanger-on-dylan-edwards-in-panthers-win/news-story/53dac98c18e52a382fbd8f6588ec0f47/|title=Joseph Leilua sin binned after off the ball coathanger on dylan edwards|website=www.news.com.au}}

Leilua played a total of 14 games for Wests in the 2020 NRL season scoring four tries as the club finished 11th and missed out on the finals.{{cite web|url=https://wwos.nine.com.au/nrl/wests-tigers-season-review-peter-sterling-luke-brooks-moses-mbye-james-tamou-michael-maguire/0ee11d5b-9955-45a8-aa24-b30a25fd3d49/|title=Wests Tigers doomed to another finals miss in 2021, Peter Sterling predicts|website=wwos.nine.com.au}}

After two heavy defeats to start the 2021 NRL season, Leilua was demoted to reserve grade by coach Michael Maguire.{{cite web|url=https://wwos.nine.com.au/nrl/nrl-round-3-team-lists-analysis-tigers-drop-joey-leilua-panthers-name-nathan-cleary-for-gf-rematch/39163cb0-0052-449d-89d6-2c37d5714526/|title=Tigers drop Leilua|website=wwos.nine.com.au}}

On 6 September, Leilua was one of five players who were released by the Wests Tigers club.{{cite web|url=https://wwos.nine.com.au/nrl/news-2021-wests-tigers-joey-leilua-moses-mbye-russel-packer-contracts-retirement/a53581d3-d8e3-4a7e-89c3-fe9d003c7c34/|title=Joey Leilua fearing for NRL career as Wests Tigers see off enigmatic centre, four teammates|website=wwos.nine.com.au}}

On 20 October, Leilua took to Instagram and denied media reports that he had signed a train and trial contract with the Wests Tigers worth $1000 a week. Leilua also attacked Wests head coach Michael Maguire writing “Btw I wouldn’t play for someone that blames the team all the time! And not once himself! #Madge".{{cite web|url=https://www.news.com.au/sport/nrl/wests-tigers-star-joey-leilua-takes-brazen-swipe-at-michael-maguire-on-instagram/news-story/2197862a04d8be7731784e84114cb874/|title=Wests Tigers star Joey Leilua takes brazen swipe at Michael Maguire on Instagram|website=www.news.com.au}}

On 24 November, Leilua signed a contract to join RFL Championship side Featherstone.{{cite web|url=https://wwos.nine.com.au/nrl/joey-leilua-signs-with-championship-side-featherstone-rovers/503034e5-0a59-4c5a-9c1c-335fe7217644/|title=Joey Leilua to resume rugby league career with Featherstone Rovers|website=wwos.nine.com.au}}

On 22 December, Leilua made his boxing debut against former NRL player Chris Heighington in the Footy Fight Night Christmas Bash. After being declared the winner, Leilua went on a foul mouthed tirade in the post-match interview saying “For all those haters that f***ing said I can’t last four rounds, thanks mate, “You gave me the inspiration tonight. I knew I could fight, I just wanted to f***ing show the whole world that I could f***ing last four rounds, “You stare on top of me being fat and can’t last four rounds, you know what? F*** yourselves, there you go".{{cite web|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/rugby-league/joey-leilua-boxing-rant-win-22543351/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211223023229/https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/rugby-league/joey-leilua-boxing-rant-win-22543351|url-status=dead|archive-date=23 December 2021|title=Joey Leilua's foul-mouthed rant after debut boxing victory|website=www.examinerlive.co.uk}}

On 7 February, Leilua made his club debut for Featherstone in their 28–6 victory over Leigh.{{cite web|url=https://www.loverugbyleague.com/post/featherstone-rovers-super-league-credentials-leigh-centurions/|title=Featherstone Rovers show Super League credentials with Leigh win – talking points|website=www.loverugbyleague.com|date=7 February 2022 }}

On 28 May, Leilua played for Featherstone in their 2022 RFL 1895 Cup final loss against Leigh.{{cite web|url=https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/rugby-league/featherstone-rovers-1895-cup-final-defeat-to-leigh-centurions-gives-brian-mcdermotts-side-signal-of-their-progress-3713313/|title=Featherstone Rovers: 1895 Cup final defeat to Leigh Centurions gives Brian McDermott's side signal of their progress|website=www.yorkshirepost.co.uk|date=29 May 2022 }}

Following his exit from Featherstone Rovers at the end of the 2023 season, on 8 November it was reported that he was heading back to Australia to resume his boxing career.{{cite web|website=Total RL|date=8 Nov 2023|title=Joey Leilua returns home for boxing fight following Featherstone Rovers exit|url=https://www.totalrl.com/joey-leilua-returns-home-for-boxing-fight-following-featherstone-rovers-exit/}}

It was then reported that he had joined the Dapto Canaries upon his return to Australia.{{cite web|website=Love Rugby League|date=29 Nov 2023|title=Samoa powerhouse Joey Leilua joins new club upon return to Australia following Featherstone Rovers departure|url=https://www.loverugbyleague.com/post/samoa-powerhouse-joey-leilua-joins-new-club-dapto-canaries-upon-return-to-australia-following-featherstone-rovers-departure}}

After two seasons in Dapto, Leilua was reported as signing with the Wyong Roos for the 2025 season.

{{Reflist|colwidth=30em}}

{{commons category}}

• [https://www.raiders.com.au/teams/telstra-premiership/canberra-raiders/joseph-leilua/ Canberra Raiders profile] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180326130215/https://www.raiders.com.au/teams/telstra-premiership/canberra-raiders/joseph-leilua/ |date=26 March 2018 }}
• [http://www.rlwc2017.com/players?team=381#Joseph-Leilua 2017 RLWC profile] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180113084902/http://www.rlwc2017.com/players?team=381#Joseph-Leilua |date=13 January 2018 }}

{{Samoa 2013 Rugby League World Cup squad}}

{{Samoa 2014 Rugby League Four Nations squad}}

{{Samoa 2017 Rugby League World Cup squad}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Leilua, Joseph}}

Category:1991 births

Category:Living people

Category:Australian people of New Zealand descent

Category:Australian sportspeople of Samoan descent

Category:Australian rugby league players

Category:Boxers from Sydney

Category:Canberra Raiders players

Category:Dapto Canaries players

Category:Featherstone Rovers players

Category:New South Wales City Origin rugby league team players

Category:Newcastle Knights players

Category:Newtown Jets NSW Cup players

Category:People educated at Endeavour Sports High School

Category:Rugby league centres

Category:Rugby league players from Sydney

Category:Rugby league wingers

Category:Samoa national rugby league team captains

Category:Samoa national rugby league team players

Category:Samoan rugby league players

Category:Sydney Roosters players

Category:Western Suburbs Magpies NSW Cup players

Category:Wests Tigers players

Category:Wyong Roos players

Category:21st-century Australian sportsmen