Fifita copped a backlash for wearing strapping across his wrist with the letters “F.K.L” which was believed to stand for either “Free Kieran Loveridge” or “For Kieran Loveridge”, the man who killed Thomas Kelly four years ago.

Loveridge is currently serving a 10-year sentence for his crime with Fifita believed to have visted his mate in prison.

Fifita received a warning from NSW Police earlier this week regarding his relationship with Loveridge with the matter under investigation by the NRL Integrity Unit.

Fifita vehemently denied that “FKL” had any link to Loveridge despite the NSW and Australian representative knowing him since childhood.

 “I fully understand and accept the seriousness of the crime committed by Loveridge, the devastating impact it has had on the Kelly family and the need for Loveridge to serve his time,” Fifita said via a club statement.
 
“I want to extend my sincere apologies to the Kelly family for any distress caused to them by having this tragic matter back in the media”.

The club said:

“Both the Club and Andrew are totally aligned with the police and the NRL in wishing to protect the game from criminal infiltration and Andrew is fully aware of the need for him to accept the directions given to him,” the statement said.

“The NRL Integrity Unit has advised that it will interview the player early next week and until such times that this process is complete the Club will make no further public comment.”