Former Newcastle Knights forward Alex McKinnon, who was left paralysed by a dangerous tackle against the Melbourne Storm in 2014, is reportedly suing the NRL in a multi-million dollar lawsuit along with the Storm player that left him in a wheelchair.
Alex McKinnon just before he landed on his head and neck. Photo: AAP
Jordan McLean, the Storm player who tackled McKinnon, was given a seven-week ban for the dangerous throw and is also being personally pursued.
At the time of his injury, more than $1.5 million was raised through the Rise for Alex fundraisers. McKinnon was also paid $750,000 by the Knights to honour the two years of his contract.
McKinnon was promised a "contract for life" by the NRL following the incident and currently works in player recruitment for the Knights.
The 24-year-old met NRL chief Todd Greenberg six weeks ago to discuss the possibility of compensation.
While it was a cordial meeting, Greenberg said: "Do what you've got to do."
An NRL spokesman confirmed last night a letter had arrived from McKinnon's legal team.
The Storm have also been made aware of the action against their 24-year-old forward, who played in his side's grand final loss to Cronulla this year.
-RNZ
