Canterbury Bulldogs have parted ways with new recruit John Asiata .
The 28-year-old had signed a one-year deal with the club for 2022, but was yet to arrive at Belmore for training.
It is believed that Asiata was yet to be vaccinated for COVID-19, and with the Bulldogs announcing a hard-line stance on vaccines in September , there had been reports he would not play for the club.
Canterbury released a short statement on Tuesday afternoon confirming the news.
"The Bulldogs and John Asiata have agreed to part ways by mutual consent," the statement said.
"Asiata, signed with the club this season, but had yet to train with the squad.
"The Bulldogs wish John and his family all the best for the future."
Asiata has played 139 NRL games, the majority of which came for the Cowboys, where he was a part of their 2015 premiership-winning side.
The forward had moved to Brisbane at the beginning of 2021, but played just 10 games under Kevin Walters .