Rugby league’s premier forward Jason Taumalolo has responded to Sydney Roosters prop Jared Waerea-Hargreaves’  challenge ahead of their preliminary final at Allianz Stadium.

It sets up a monumental showdown between two of the NRL’s most intimidating figures.

“I don’t really pay attention too much to it, but it’s one thing saying it and it’s another doing it on the field. I think we’ll find out Saturday night,” Taumalolo said.

“He’s put some accountability on himself to single me out, but that only puts a lot of pressure on himself.

“I hope for Jared’s sake that he comes out and does it.”

The81stMinute ran a Twitter poll earlier in the week with 72% of people agreeing that Taumalolo had surpassed fellow Kiwi icon Sonny Bill Williams.