Controversial former agent Ricky Nixon embroiled in fresh AFL scandal
Former player agent Ricky Nixon is at the centre of an AFL investigation after allegations he sold forged merchandise in the wake of Melbourne's premiership triumph.
The Melbourne Football Club alerted AFL officials that fake goods were being sold after the Demons' drought-breaking premiership victory over the Western Bulldogs.
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It's alleged Nixon used a Facebook page to sell footballs said to be signed by Melbourne's grand final-winning team for $575 each plus $20 postage.
According to reports, the funds from the sales were allegedly said to be going to charity, with the posts having since been deleted.
It's understood that at least 20 Melbourne supporters bought the memorabilia.
As reported by The Age, supporters became suspicious about the legitimacy of the items after noticing that Charlie Spargo's signature was next to No.8, despite the fact he wears No.9 for the Demons.
A spokesperson for the club revealed they raised concerns with the AFL.
“Melbourne Football Club has been made aware of the alleged sales of illegitimate 2021 Premiership Memorabilia,” a spokesperson said.
“The club has reported the matter to the AFL legal and licensing department who are investigating the matter.
“For anyone wishing to purchase official and genuine 2021 Premiership Memorabilia the club advises to do so via this link: officialmemorabilia.com.au.”
AFL investigation continues
The AFL said on Monday that investigations into the matter were ongoing.
“The AFL has been made aware of concerns to footballs with allegedly counterfeit signatures being sold and is currently investigating the matter and has requested Mr Nixon immediately cease any further sales,” a spokesperson said.
"The AFL reminds all fans to only purchase merchandise through AFL authorised sellers, including directly from clubs, the AFL store or officialmemorabilia.com.au."
Nixon was a leading player agent before being stripped of his accreditation over the infamous St Kilda schoolgirl scandal and his relationship with the woman at the centre of it, Kimberley Duthie.
The story made headlines when a then 17-year-old Duthie leaked photos of Nixon with her in his underpants in a hotel room, along with other pictures of naked St Kilda players.
Nixon used to manage some of the biggest names in the sport including Wayne Carey, Tony Lockett and Gary Ablett Sr, having played 63 AFL games across 10 seasons for Carlton, St Kilda and Hawthorn.
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