As anticipation builds ahead of State of Origin II, off-field tensions have flared after ex-NSW prop Aaron Woods took aim at Queensland coach Billy Slater, labelling him a “grub” — a remark that quickly drew a sharp rebuttal.
The row has dominated headlines in the lead-up to Wednesday’s clash, adding a layer of personal tension to what’s already shaping up to be a high-stakes decider.
The Comment That Lit the Fuse
Speaking on Triple M’s Footy Talk podcast, Aaron Woods lashed out at Slater’s reaction to Joseph Suaalii’s high tackle on Reece Walsh in Game I.
“Billy Slater’s carry-on was disgraceful. Honestly, it was grubby,” Woods said, accusing the Queensland coach of “manipulating” the NRL judiciary and “overcooking” his post-match outrage.
Aaron Woods on-air during his controversial podcast appearance.
Source: Triple M / Getty
Billy Slater’s Fiery Response
Never one to mince words, Billy Slater clapped back quickly during his pre-Origin media briefing, dismissing Woods’ remarks as “cheap commentary” and “a distraction from the real contest.”
“Aaron’s entitled to his opinion, but I know who I am and how I conduct myself,” Slater said. “If being passionate about player safety is grubby, I’ll wear it.”
Slater went on to reaffirm his belief that Suaalii’s hit on Walsh deserved the four-week suspension handed down by the match review committee.
Maroons coach Billy Slater has just issued a public apology for comments made yesterday linking the death of Paul Green to the pressures of coaching.
Slater has also spoken to Green’s family this morning. @9NewsAUS @NRLonNine
— Adam Jackson (@AdamJackson_9) June 18, 2025
Billy Slater speaks to reporters during pre-Origin II preparations in Melbourne.
Source:(Twitter)
A Deeper Rift?
While public player-coach spats are not uncommon in NRL circles, this one hits closer to home. Woods and Slater were both coached by the late Paul Green, and their paths have crossed often in the representative arena.
Insiders suggest that Woods’ comments reflect broader frustration within the NSW camp—not just over Suaalii’s ban but also over Queensland’s dominance in Origin over the past decade, with Slater now regarded as a master tactician in the coaching box.
What Did Aaron Woods Really Mean?
Following the backlash, Woods has softened his stance slightly, offering clarification on his earlier remarks.
“I respect Billy’s footy mind, no doubt. But his media push after Game I felt a bit over the top. That’s all I meant. No personal attack.”
Still, the damage may be done. Queensland players like Daly Cherry-Evans and Patrick Carrigan have publicly backed their coach, saying Woods crossed a line.
Reece Walsh seconds before the collision in Origin Game I. Source: Getty Images
Bigger Stakes, Bigger Emotions
Origin II is set for Melbourne’s MCG, with NSW fighting to keep the series alive after a decisive Game I loss. Queensland, now emboldened by the furore, will look to ride the emotion and tighten their grip on the trophy.
Slater vs Woods may not be happening on the field, but it’s certainly helping raise the emotional stakes in the stands—and potentially, in the locker rooms.
Behind the Mic: Aaron Woods’ Media Persona
Since transitioning into a part-time media role post-retirement, Aaron Woods has carved out a reputation for being outspoken and unfiltered—traits that can both captivate and provoke. His comment about Slater wasn’t an isolated incident; Woods has been increasingly vocal on hot-button issues surrounding the NRL judiciary, player safety, and coaching styles. While his candour draws attention, it also walks a fine line between analysis and antagonism. For some fans, Woods’ take on Slater reflects a growing frustration with what they see as a “Queensland advantage” in media narratives and officiating decisions during the State of Origin series.
Fan Reaction
Social media has lit up in response to the feud. X (formerly Twitter) saw phrases like “Woods vs Slater”, “NSW bitterness”, and “Grub Gate” trending across Australian sports networks.
Many fans have defended Slater for taking a stand on player safety, while others have sided with Woods, arguing that Queensland’s reactions post-Game I bordered on melodramatic.
Also Read: Australia Activates Contingency Plans to Evacuate Citizens from Israel and Iran
What’s Next?
Whether the beef between Aaron Woods and Billy Slater will simmer down after Game II remains to be seen. But for now, it has done its job: igniting the already-intense State of Origin fire and ensuring that all eyes remain glued to the sideline as much as the scoreboard.
