Matt Cooper calls out State of Origin rival Justin Hodges for a boxing fight

Matt Cooper is targeting a fight with his old State of Origin rival Justin Hodges as the former rugby league pin-up revealed he is preparing for his boxing debut.

Cooper, 44, has never fought before but has set his sights on Hodges, 41, who has competed on eight occasions professionally – winning five and losing three.

The pair fought on the rugby field for years as opposing centres for the Brisbane Broncos and the Dragons, as well as New South Wales and Queensland in Origin, but now Cooper wants to put on the gloves and take a swing at Hodges in the ring.

He posted a video on Twitter on Saturday from a beach resort in Thailand where he called Hodges out. 

‘I’m just having a little getaway, nice holiday, it’s been calm, it’s been great,’ he said.

Matt Cooper has called out Justin Hodges for a boxing fight

The rugby league legends were on opposite teams for years during their illustrious careers

‘Looking forward to getting back home, getting back in the gym. Let’s go Hodgo, I’ve got your number brother.’ 

Hodges last fought in November, losing to footy legend Paul Gallen via unanimous decision in Sydney. 

Cooper played for the Dragons for his entire career, winning the 2010 premiership with the club. 

Playing alongside young guns Brett Morris and Darius Boyd, the 13-game Blue enjoyed great success at the Illawarra club.

However, 13 years on from a milestone year, Cooper opted to stay away from reunion celebrations last year to avoid causing trouble with former CEO Peter Doust and a mystery squad member.

‘I want to apologise to my 2010 premiership team for not attending the 10-12year reunion. The reason why I did not attend, was I didn’t want to make a scene and ruin a special occasion! Knowing former CEO and a player who did not even play in the game were going to be there,’ Cooper posted on Twitter last year. 

Cooper insists he has Hodges’ ‘number’ and wants to take him on