Sam Lisone has revealed two key figures behind his decision to sign for Hull FC. The 31-year-old, as exclusively reported by Hull Live, has opted to join the Black and Whites from next season, deciding against an extension at his current club, Leeds Rhinos.
And while Herman Ese’ese was already known as one key part of the move, selling the club to his fellow countryman, it was conversations with head coach John Cartwright that helped Auckland-born Lisone settle on a move to Hull.
In fact, those phone calls with Cartwright ensured Lisone felt ‘wanted’ – with the impact prop signing a two-year deal, keeping him at the East Yorkshire club until the end of the 2027 season.
However, and while airing his excitement to play in front of the Hull faithful next year, Lisone has also emphasised his commitment to current club Leeds, who look set for an assault on the Super League play-offs – one the forward, with seven tries to his name this year, is very much a part of.
Speaking on his decision to sign for Hull FC, Lisone said: “I’ve spoken to Herman quite a bit about the move, and John Cartwright told me how much he wanted me to come to the club over the phone.
“I’ve always enjoyed coming over to Hull to play. The FC fans are always making loads of noise, and I can’t wait for that. For me, I’m just focused on playing my best footy for the rest of the year for Leeds. Hopefully I’ll be able to carry on my form for Hull FC next year.”
Hull have been able to get Lisone over the line, due in part to an extension of the quota rules, with Super League clubs now allowed ten overseas players in their squads for the 2026 and 2027 seasons at least.
He is the first new recruit announced by the club for next year – although, as per exclusive reports from Hull Live, they have also signed St Helens duo James Bell and Joe Batchelor, Wigan prop Harvie Hill, and York back rower Connor Bailey.
Meanwhile, Lisone, who first played in the NRL for the New Zealand Warriors and then the Gold Coast Titans, has over 200 appearances to his name, having signed for Leeds ahead of the 2023 season.
He is the impact prop heavily desired by the club, who have also retained Ese’ese for next year on an extended deal, as well as Liam Knight, again reported by Hull Live.
It’s a signing. Director of Rugby Gareth Ellis expects to flourish at the club next year, resonating strongly with the club’s supporters.
“We are absolutely delighted to add Sam to our ranks for 2026,” Ellis said. “He is a key piece of recruitment for the club for the next two seasons.
“Sam will not only bring great size, power and skill to our ranks – he’s also a brilliant character and exactly the sort of individual we’re keen to add to our ranks.
“He will undoubtedly become one of our leadership figures and lead from the front with his actions both on and off the field. I know he is excited for a new challenge and will relish the chance to play in front of the faithful, who I’m sure will quickly take him to their heart.”