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Pearce and his partner Kristin Scott were scheduled to tie the knot in Byron Bay on Tuesday.
But The Daily Telegraph reported the 150 guests invited had been informed before Christmas — some notified as late as Christmas Eve — that the wedding had been cancelled.
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The Sydney Morning Herald reported several big-name players, including Kieran Foran, were on the guest list.
While some guests were told the recent Northern Beachers COVID-19 outbreak was the reason behind the abrupt decision, the report indicated Pearce had told teammates he’d been caught sending “flirty text messages” to a Knights female employee.
Pearce’s fiancee has reportedly seen the text messages, as has the woman’s partner.
When contacted by The Daily Telegraph to address the sudden change of plans, Pearce said the wedding had been “postponed”, rather than cancelled, adding he was “filthy about people spreading rumours”.
“It’s COVID mate … and it’s private,” Pearce said.
“We’re sorting things out. It’s a really stressful time for us. It’s our business, no-one else’s.”
Knights media manager Frank Barrett told The Daily Telegraph: “The Newcastle Knights are aware of the issue but it’s a private matter that stays between the two individuals.”
Pearce, who was part of the Sydney Roosters’ 2013 premiership triumph and NSW’s 2019 State of Origin series win, and Scott got engaged in April, with the half-back describing it as “the best day of my life.”
The 31-year-old is currently in negotiations with Newcastle over a new contract, with hopes of signing a long-term deal.