Josh Addo-Carr Reflects on 'Unfair' Bulldogs Exit and Eels Revival
When the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs terminated Josh Addo-Carr's contract in 2024 following a drug-related scandal, the star winger found himself at his lowest point. To this day, he insists the treatment he received was profoundly "unfair".
Maintaining Innocence Amid Controversy
The lightning-fast winger has consistently proclaimed his innocence after failing a roadside drug test for cocaine, with a secondary sample confirming the result in September 2023. Addo-Carr asserted he never consumed any illicit substances, yet the club ended his contract when he faced the board a month after the test.
Now, 'The Fox' has spoken exclusively to The Daily Mail, revealing how he remains steadfast in his claims of innocence. He has moved on from the saga, joining the Parramatta Eels and finding renewed purpose.
"For me, bra, life's unfair sometimes and it might not go your way... but you just gotta get back on the horse bra... and prove people wrong," he said. "[You need to] prove to yourself it might not go to plan... and people might not believe you... but as long as you know the truth, that's what you use as motivation."
Thriving at Parramatta Eels
The 30-year-old has since found his footing in Sydney's west with the Parramatta Eels, where he has scored an impressive 20 tries in just 24 matches. This resurgence highlights his resilience and talent on the field.
One of the most crucial aspects of the Indigenous star's life is his desire to be a positive influence on his children, especially his son, 'Little Fox'. "I take him everywhere with me, and want him to experience and make the best memories with him," Addo-Carr explained. "I never really had that as a kid when I was growing up, you know, in housing commission. But he gets the opportunity to go to games, in All Stars camp, just create good memories outside of footy as well."
Overcoming a Challenging Upbringing
Addo-Carr experienced a difficult childhood, with at least four relatives being incarcerated during his youth. He dropped out of school as a teenager and moved frequently across Sydney, from Doonside in the west to inner-city areas like Redfern.
As he has matured over his stellar 11-season career, the 15-time NSW Origin representative has shifted his focus toward life after football. This includes launching his personal brand, 'Let's Trot', in 2022, which he revealed will become his primary focus upon retirement.
"On my days off, and in my free time, I've got Let's Trot to really switch off [from] thinking about footy," he said. "[It will] definitely set me up after footy, we've definitely made a lot of money over the years ... people buy it, it sells out every drop. When I do finish up, most of my time will go into that."
Building a Business Legacy
Addo-Carr has developed a keen interest in business in recent years, aiming to secure financial stability for his family. "Over the years, I've just met ... business people, entrepreneurs, people that are really successful on and off the field, and ... I wanted to be like that," he shared. "I wanted to be more successful outside of footy, for my kids, for my family, (and) create generational wealth."
The Blacktown-born flyer boasts an illustrious career, including:
- A premiership with the Melbourne Storm
- Victory in Origin series for NSW
- Membership in a World Cup-winning team with Australia
His journey from adversity to success, both on and off the field, underscores his determination and commitment to forging a brighter future for himself and his loved ones.
