‘Fantastic’ Player Liam Martin Agrees Terms with Wigan Warriors as CEO Looks to Increase Firepower
Wigan, England – Wigan Warriors have pulled off a sensational coup by agreeing terms with Penrith Panthers and Australia international forward Liam Martin, in what is being hailed as one of the club’s most ambitious signings in recent memory. The “fantastic” second-rower is expected to join the Cherry and Whites ahead of the 2026 season, marking a significant move in the Warriors’ long-term squad development strategy.
The deal was brokered after months of strategic planning and quiet negotiations led by Wigan CEO Kris Radlinski, who has made no secret of his desire to elevate the club’s status by recruiting world-class talent capable of dominating Super League and making an impact on the global stage.
“Liam Martin is one of the best forwards in the game today,” Radlinski said in a club statement. “To have him commit to Wigan is a massive statement of intent. He embodies everything we stand for—hard work, skill, aggression, and an unrelenting desire to win. This is a huge boost for our future ambitions.”
Martin, 27, is widely regarded as one of the most dynamic and hard-hitting second-rowers in the NRL. A key component of Penrith’s premiership-winning side, the Australian international has earned plaudits for his fearless tackling, relentless engine, and knack for scoring crucial tries. He also featured prominently in Australia’s World Cup triumph in 2022 and is a regular in the New South Wales State of Origin side.
Sources close to the negotiations indicate that Martin was impressed by Wigan’s professionalism and the opportunity to experience rugby league in the UK while helping to bring further glory to one of the sport’s most historic clubs.
“It’s an honour to be joining Wigan Warriors,” Martin said via a brief statement. “I’ve heard incredible things about the club, its fans, and the legacy it carries. I’m excited to test myself in a new competition and give everything I’ve got for the badge.”
Strategic Power Play by Wigan
The addition of Martin is just the latest indication of Wigan’s ambitious recruitment strategy under Radlinski and head coach Matt Peet. The club has already secured emerging forwards Sam Walters and Tiaki Chan, as well as Christian Wade in the backs, but Martin’s signing raises the bar significantly.
“This isn’t a one-off,” Radlinski added. “We’re committed to building something special here. Adding Liam to the squad is a game-changer, but we’re not finished yet. Our goal is to bring consistent success back to Wigan—and that means bringing in elite players who can make a real difference.”
Fans React With Buzz
The Wigan fanbase has erupted with excitement following the news. Social media was awash with supporters celebrating the acquisition, with many calling it the club’s biggest signing since the likes of Trent Barrett or Brett Dallas.
“This is huge. Liam Martin in a Wigan shirt? That’s unreal,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Radlinski is building a monster team.”
Looking Ahead
Liam Martin is expected to link up with Wigan ahead of the 2026 season once his current NRL commitments conclude. In the meantime, Wigan’s aggressive recruitment continues, with Radlinski hinting at more marquee moves to follow.
If this signing is anything to go by, Wigan Warriors are preparing to usher in a new era of dominance—one led by firepower, vision, and world-class talent.
