The Tonga-born prop made over 200 appearances in the NRL for Parramatta before moving to England in 2015 and he'll start his 18th season as a professional player with a new club after joining Rochdale Hornets.

Moimoi, who played in the English league with Leigh, Toronto and Workington, will turn 41 before the season is over and says he may still go around again in 2022.

"I'll see how the body feels," he told a Hornets' press conference. "I'll go every year and my body will tell me when I've had enough, then I'll stop."

Moimoi, who played for Tonga in the 2013 World Cup in England, arrived with intention of playing a one-off season but quickly became a fan favourite with his blockbusting style of running.

"I enjoy my footy here," said Moimoi, who followed his former Toronto teammate and close friend Sean Penkywicz from Workington to Spotland.

"It's more relaxed over here and not as tough as back home."

Rochdale coach Matt Calland believes the powerful front rower will help boost the crowds at the League 1 club but says his influence on the club could be just as important off the field.

"He's a big signing for the club," said Calland. "He's a cult hero in the NRL and we're hoping he's going to bring more fans to the game here in Rochdale.

"He's a natural leader, with all the experience he's had in game and, when he speaks, everybody listens.

"He's really good to have around, invaluable really. I think he'll be just as valuable off the field as he will be on it. The young boys in training all look up to him.

"He's quite fit, a lot fitter than I expected, he's digging in at training. I think it will be really exciting watching him come off the bench and making an impact."

Australian Associated Press