How religion and a new relationship has changed former NRL bad boy Mitchell Pearce - as he rejects approach from Eels to replace the injured Mitchell Moses

Former NRL bad boy Mitchell Pearce is a very different man compared to his at times chaotic footy days - thanks to the positive influence of a new romantic figure in his life.

Pearce, 34, is in a relationship with a woman of Muslim faith that he met while playing for Catalans Dragons in France. 

The couple have been together for just over a year - and the halfback is clearly invested in the relationship. 

He is currently observing Ramadan — the months of the Muslim year when strict fasting is observed from dawn to sunset — for the first time as part of his new approach to life.

The premiership-winning no.7 with the Roosters has also not touched a drop of alcohol in over 12 months.

While he is unlikely to convert to Islam, Pearce has been doing plenty of reading to broaden his mind in areas such as faith and mindfulness.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, he is also keen to mentor young NRL stars and warn them about the dangers of life in the spotlight.

It follows Pearce's infamous Australia Day antics in 2016, where he was fined $125,000 by the NRL after he was filmed allegedly simulating a sexual act with a dog and urinating on himself at a party. 

He later admitted he had a problem with alcohol - namely binge drinking - and had a stint in rehab overseas following his suspension.

Pearce moved from the Sydney Roosters to the Newcastle Knights in 2018, and in December of 2020 called off his wedding at almost the last minute after he was busted allegedly sending flirty texts to a female employee at the club.

Next was a move to France with Catalans in the Super League for two seasons, which Pearce believes was a career-defining moment. 

Meanwhile, it can be revealed the Parramatta Eels discussed the prospect of signing Pearce as a shock possible replacement for the injured Mitch Moses, who has a broken foot.

It is understood a third party reportedly encouraged Eels general manager of football Mark O’Neill to mull over the idea with coach Brad Arthur - only for Pearce to politely decline the offer when contacted.