NRL Star Bradman Best Pops The Question, Secures Blessing from Boxing Legend Jeff Fenech
The rugby league world is abuzz with celebratory messages for Newcastle Knights’ star centre, Bradman Best, following his successful marriage proposal to his partner, Kayla Fenech. The romantic moment unfolded at the picturesque Krinklewood Estate in the Hunter Valley on Saturday, marking a significant milestone for the young couple.
Best, known for his powerful runs and impressive skill on the field, reportedly sought and received the blessing of Kayla’s father, the legendary Australian boxing icon Jeff Fenech, before popping the question. This heartwarming news comes just after the Knights’ triumphant victory over the Cowboys in their Round 1 clash in Las Vegas last weekend, adding another layer of joy to their overseas trip. Kayla shared the joyous news on social media on Sunday, posting a series of cherished photos from the engagement and captioning them with a heartfelt “Here’s to forever.”
The outpouring of congratulations has been immense, with a host of NRL personalities reaching out to the happy couple. Among those sending their best wishes were Knights teammates Dylan Lucas and Mat Croker, Sydney Roosters star Angus Crichton, and Warriors forward Mitch Barnett. Penrith Panthers winger Brian To’o and former Knights player Adam Clune also took to social media to share their congratulations.
This engagement marks the second time in as many weeks that an NRL star has announced their intention to marry the daughter of a prominent Australian sporting figure. Brisbane Broncos winger Deine Mariner recently proposed to Grace Kama, whose father is none other than surfing champion Mark Occhilupo.
Winning Over a Sporting Legend: The Story of Bradman and Jeff
The relationship between Bradman Best and Kayla Fenech, which began in 2023, has blossomed, leading to the birth of their first child last year. Kayla has previously shared insights into how Best managed to win over her father, Jeff Fenech, who initially held some reservations about his daughter dating a professional footballer.
Jeff Fenech himself has spoken glowingly about the couple’s happiness and commitment. “They are so happy,” he stated in a previous interview. “And I’m so proud of both of them. The baby is going to have some great genes. And they’ll be great parents. Bradman is a great fella who will make a great dad.”
Fenech admitted to having previously cautioned his daughters about relationships with league players, citing his lifelong experience with footballers and their penchant for enjoying their youth. However, he quickly recognised Bradman’s exceptional character. “Bradman is such a decent person who treats my daughter beautifully,” Fenech continued. “When we went to Newcastle to visit them, Bradman invited us in and said, ‘Welcome to our house’. Not his house, their house. He’s a great young man.”
Kayla echoed her father’s sentiments, emphasizing that appearances can be deceiving and that Bradman defied the common perceptions of footballers. She described him as “a good person, very down to earth, and treats me really well. Just an all-round good person with a big heart. He’s actually perfect.”
Bradman Best has established himself as a formidable presence in the NRL since his debut for the Knights in 2019, amassing 106 games. His talent has also been recognised on the representative stage, with two State of Origin appearances for New South Wales and a selection in the Kangaroos squad for last year’s Ashes series against England. This latest chapter in his life, marked by a successful proposal to Kayla, further solidifies his status as a respected figure both on and off the field.
