In a boxing ring it wouldn't be a fair fight, but Queensland bolter Reuben Cotter has no fears in his State of Origin match-up with Isaah Yeo.
The North Queensland 23-year-old will start at lock for Billy Slater's side, one of four debutants named in the 17 for the Sydney opener next Wednesday.
The tale of the tape could strike fear into the Queensland camp, with the 180cm, 95kg Cotter giving away 15cm and 11kg to the Penrith captain.
But the father-to-be - Cotter's partner is expected their first child in the coming weeks - hasn't ever shirked it when fighting up a division.
In fact it's aided his rise, with Cotter's transition from utility forward and hooker to middle-forward powerhouse a key reason behind his and the Cowboys' superb 2022 form.
"I'm excited (to aim up), can't wait for those first exchanges," Cotter said of his starting berth.
"That's what it's all about in that arena ... I don't reckon size matters too much. It's about the fight in the dog."
The Mackay product has always had a reputation for felling giants, with Queensland teammate and former junior rival Kalyn Ponga recalling his tackling prowess in their schoolboy battles.
It's no surprise Cotter rated fellow North Queensland workhorse lock Dallas Johnson an inspiration, not that coach Billy Slater is interested in comparisons.
Asked if Cotter might play in "the Johnson mould", Slater replied: "I'm expecting it to be in the Reuben Cotter mould. He's got his own mould of footy.
"Anyone that's heard me talk about Reuben, they understand how important I see his role in the team.
"His was one of the first names I wrote down."
Cotter's form has allowed pack monster Tino Fa'asuamaleaui to shift into the front row, with fellow debutant Pat Carrigan on the bench and Jai Arrow relegated to the extended squad.
Slater said Arrow's slip-up last season, when he was suspended for breaching COVID-19 protocols by inviting a guest into camp, had not played a part in his demotion.
"One hundred per cent no. We've got a real luxury in that middle forwards battle at the minute," Slater said.
"You've got to focus on who's in there, not who isn't.
"He's going to need to play for Queensland in the future, I can see that.
"And he's got a great attitude; he'll be ready to go if we need him."
