Ross Moriarty has become the latest big name to join the exodus from Welsh rugby.
The 28-year-old Wales international ended months of speculation over his future by leaving the Dragons to join French club Brive with immediate effect. He has signed a contract that will keep him there until 2025.
He follows Will Rowlands, Max Llewellyn and Joe Hawkins in signing up to exit the regional scene, with Jarrod Evans also set to depart and overseas men Sione Kalamafoni, Tomas Lezana and Ethan Roots moving on, too.
Javan Sebastian is heading off to Edinburgh, while youngster Tiaan Thomas-Wheeler is playing in Japan.
All are leaving behind a scene where wages are being squeezed and some jobs are being lost amid cutbacks brought on by significantly reduced budgets.
Moriarty will still be available to Wales as his 54 caps places him comfortably above the eligibility threshold of 25 for exiled players.
The Dragons apparently tabled the best offer they could under the constraints in Wales.
But it was never going to be enough to compete with a club from the Top 14.
Moriarty leaves Rodney Parade after five seasons and 54 appearances, 19 of them coming this term. While the Dragons have found it tough going in that time, no-one could ever doubt the commitment of the man who wore the No. 8 or No. 6 jersey for them. Moriarty has earned praise from the coaches for his attitude and put his body on the line every time he has taken the field.
He is certainly leaving on amicable terms, with coach Dai Flanagan saying: "Ross has made a huge impact at Dragons over the last five seasons, captaining the side on several occasions, giving absolutely everything to the cause... He will always be welcome at Rodney Parade."
Dragons chairman David Buttress stayed on the same them, saying: "Ross has given everything to the club while he’s been with us, we wish him all the success in the world in France and for Wales."
And Moriarty himself said: "I've made lifelong friends within the squad and always loved playing at Rodney Parade in front of the passionate and dedicated fanbase... I look forward to returning to see the Dragons in the future."
Bayonne had reportedly been at the front of the queue to sign him, with Exeter Chiefs also linked to him, but Brive have stepped in to secure his services.
The former European champions are anchored to the floor of the Top 14 but they have attracted investment from an English billionaire and hope Moriarty can help restore their fortunes.
Playing in France is something he has long wanted to do after sampling rugby in England with Gloucester and spending the past five half-decade with the Dragons. With his presence and uncompromising approach, he will not be easy to replace.
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