Big Papa’s Final Season: Josh Papali’i Set to Become the Ultimate Raider
As we approach another monumental moment in the history of the Canberra Raiders, one name continues to command both respect and admiration—Josh Papali’i. This weekend marks a historic milestone for the powerhouse prop as he prepares to become the most-capped player in Raiders history, notching up his 319th NRL game. It’s not just a statistic; it’s a testament to loyalty, resilience, and pure grit on the field.
Josh Papali’i has never been one for big speeches or spotlight-chasing. Since debuting in Round 11 of the 2011 season, coming off the bench against Melbourne, he’s let his playing do the talking. Known affectionately as “Big Papa,” he’s balanced quiet humility off the field with ferocious physicality on it. His presence, leadership, and no-nonsense style of play have cemented him as a true icon in the Green Machine’s legacy.
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At a press event this week leading into the big game against Souths, Papali’i reflected on his journey. He spoke softly of his early days—moving to Canberra with his dad, living with a host family in Ngunnawal, and just hoping to play a handful of games. Fast-forward nearly 15 years, and he stands on the brink of a record that once belonged solely to Raiders legend Jason Croker.
Papali’i hasn’t just been a player. He’s been a story of perseverance. From signing and then backing out of a deal with Parramatta to remain in Canberra for his family, to moments of discipline like being dropped to reserve grade in 2018, his path hasn’t always been smooth. But through it all, the Raiders stuck with him—and he never forgot that loyalty. “I probably should’ve been sacked 12 years ago,” he admitted, “but they stood by me, and that’s what means more than any accolade.”
His friendship with coach Ricky Stuart, once strained over the abandoned Eels contract, has since blossomed into one of deep respect. Stuart himself thanked the club for keeping Papali’i, recognizing the enormous contribution he would go on to make. Fellow Raider and close mate Joe Tapine says he can’t wait to look back years from now and celebrate the memories they’ve created together in green.
This weekend won’t just be another match—it’ll be a celebration of everything Josh Papali’i has stood for. And while he’s hinted that this will be his last year with the Raiders, possibly eyeing a final run in the UK Super League, one thing is certain: his legacy here is unshakeable. When he walks out at GIO Stadium on Sunday, it won’t just be for another game—it’ll be for history.
So if you’re a Raiders fan, or simply someone who appreciates loyalty in sport, don’t miss this moment. Josh Papali’i, already a legend, is about to etch his name into the record books—one final time in lime green.
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