Queensland debutant Kulikefu Finefeuiaki credits giving up a family favourite Tongan dish as one reason why he is now a streamlined wrecking ball set to unleash his best in State of Origin.
The 22-year-old Dolphin and Tonga international wasn't always the athletic beast and 80-minute second-rower he is now.
"Young Kuli was a bit chubbier back then," the new Maroons forward chuckled.
"Looking back, every time I was running on the field I was getting a bit too tired so I had to lay off the food."
One particular dish - Lu Sipi - was his go-to, expertly prepared by his father.
"Lu Sipi is tarot leaves with lamb, onions and coconut cream. I was having it a bit too much, credit to my dad," he said.
