- Confirmed he was battling throat cancer in January
NRL identity Paul Kent has opened up about the brutal effects of his cancer battle.
Kent, 56, confirmed in January that he was battling throat cancer.
Speaking on the Fanatics podcast, the former journalist and NRL 360 co-host admitted his life has been turned upside down.
‘I’ve lost 12kg… and they tell you not to lose weight as it makes the treatment less effective,’ he said.
‘I also haven’t had a solid meal in five or six weeks… I have ulcers in my mouth and throat, some up to 5cm, so basically it is impossible to eat.
‘Everything I try and eat tastes metallic, like steel wool.’
Rugby league podcaster Paul Kent has opened up about the brutal effects of his cancer battle
Following treatment, Kent stated he has lost 12kg, all food tastes like steel wool and he hasn’t had a decent meal in five or six weeks
Kent recently revealed he completed his last chemotherapy treatment after being diagnosed with cancer in January
The former NRL 360 host has turned his attention to podcasting after he was sacked by News Corp and Fox Sports in 2024 following his role in a wild street brawl in Sydney’s inner-west
Kent also stated he was finally off Endone – a prescription-only narcotic medication – but still yearns for pain-free days.
He was diagnosed after returning from the Ashes tour in England before Christmas, with cancer found in the lymph nodes around his neck.
The 56-year-old then underwent treatment at the Chris O’Brien Cancer Centre in Sydney.
Earlier this month he posted a smiling image on Instagram, saying his treatment is almost complete.
‘Last chemo (triple hit) underway today,’ Kent wrote. ‘Four more rounds of radiation left and we are closing this chapter.
‘Hanging in there and doing well. The messages and support from you all has been overwhelming – truly grateful. See you all soon.’
After Kent was sacked by News Corp and Fox Sports in 2024 following his role in a wild street brawl in Sydney’s inner-west, he turned his attention to podcasting.
He eventually launched Kenty Prime Time and Kenty Blitz, with former rugby league bad boy John Elias often a co-host.
Guests have included Australian Rugby League Commission Chairman Peter V’Landys, Clint Newton, the CEO of the Rugby League Players’ Association, Canberra Raiders coach Ricky Stuart, former Bulldogs star-turned-commentator James Graham and South Sydney legend Craig Coleman.
‘A lot of people suggested it to me and told me to think about it (launching a podcast),’ Kent told Mediaweek.
‘(In the end) I thought I’d go ahead with it. I like the idea of it. There are a lot of positives to it.’
