NRL great Matty Johns choked back tears on live television as he delivered an emotional tribute to Jai Arrow after the 30-year-old’s MND diagnosis forced him to retire. Johns broke the network’s No.1 rule by using an uncensored expletive, which was later cut f
Matty Johns tried to keep his composure. He couldn’t.
On Thursday night. the former Newcastle champion and media personality went on his Fox League show to pay tribute to Jai Arrow. a South Sydney and Gold Coast player whose MND diagnosis was revealed earlier this week. Arrow, 30, is now locked in the fight of his life against the progressive neurological disease.
Johns began by speaking Arrow’s diagnosis out loud — “Jai Arrow. of course was diagnosed with MND. motor neuron disease. ” he said — and then the emotion overtook him. He visibly struggled not to break. choking back tears as he told Arrow and his family: “Hey Jai. mate. listen. mate we wish you all the very best. We’re thinking of you and your loved ones in this difficult time.”.
He leaned into the moment again, saying: “Your heart breaks. So mate, we’re really thinking of you and there’s nothing else really to say except life’s f***ed sometimes.”
The network ran the expletive uncensored during the broadcast before cutting to a commercial break. Later, the line was censored for social media.
Footy fans reacted instantly. “Jeez seeing Matty Johns tearing up really got me,” one person posted. “That’s why we love ya Matty, not just words, but straight from the heart,” wrote another. Others described the send-out as direct and heartfelt, with one writing: “What a beautiful, sincere send-out of love. You’re an amazing man Matty, and Jai will no doubt appreciate it.”.
Arrow’s diagnosis has already begun changing everyday life. His speech has been noticeably slower and slurred compared to a few months ago. and he retired from the NRL immediately after revealing the news. The average life expectancy is typically around two to five years after symptoms begin. with Arrow expected to face weakness. loss of movement. and difficulty speaking. swallowing. and finally breathing.
“I wanted to do this to let people know I am OK and I am ready to fight,” Arrow said. “I do really have a lot. Nothing is gonna take me out easy. I wanna do everything I can – any trial, any medication that will maintain me for as long as I can.”
He added that he wants to inspire other people who have been diagnosed. Arrow has vowed to try experimental medication to stay around for his fiancée. Berina Colakovic. and for his daughter. Ayla Rae. He has named his daughter as his “greatest strength. ” saying his aim is to fight the disease and watch her grow up.
The wider reality of MND is stark. Former Queensland Maroons player Carl Webb died from motor neurone disease aged 42 in December 2023. while former England rugby league halfback Rob Burrow died in 2024. five years after being diagnosed with the disease. Around 2. 750 people are living with MND in Australia. and while it is life threatening. the speed at which it affects each person varies. There is currently no cure.
Arrow’s connection to the game remains close even as he steps away from the field. Queensland State of Origin coach Billy Slater invited him into the Origin camp this year after Arrow played 12 matches for the Maroons. His club coach Wayne Bennett backed him to fight. calling him “a special guy” and saying: “we’re all very lucky to have him at our club and in our lives.”.
South Sydney boss Blake Solly said Arrow will always be part of the club. “Unfortunately. we won’t see Jai on the field of play in the NRL again due to this diagnosis. but handling this situation is much more important than football for Jai and his family. ” Solly said. “We all know how difficult the past few months have been for Jai. but we also know that he will fight this illness with the same bravery. passion and character that was the hallmark of his playing career.”.
As the tributes poured in, NRL fans pushed for a fundraiser in Arrow’s name, dubbed “Jai July.” The idea would see money raised for MND research, taking inspiration from “Try July,” where betting company Sportsbet would donate funds after players completed try-scoring celebrations.
“WE NEED JAIL JULY,” one person wrote. “Jai July, gotta make this happen NRL,” added another. Arrow’s former teammate Lachlan Ilias said: “Make this happen.” Manly Sea Eagles halfback Jamal Fogarty added: “NRL we MUST make this happen. I’m sure every player of our game all agree. ” while Cronulla Sharks superstar Nicho Hynes said: “Make this happen NRL.”.
For now, the message spreading fastest isn’t about football at all. It’s about time, courage, and making sure Arrow doesn’t face the fight alone.
Jai Arrow Matty Johns MND motor neuron disease NRL South Sydney Rabbitohs Gold Coast Late Show Fox League Billy Slater Wayne Bennett Blake Solly Jai July fundraiser