The All Blacks have given Sonny Bill Williams the green light to box again, believing his December fight won't impact on their Test program.
Williams will return to the ring on December 1 in Sydney in the headline fight of the "Banger under the Hanger" promotion against a yet-to-be-named opponent.
The fight falls on the weekend after the All Blacks' final Test of the year, against Italy in Rome.
Coach Steve Hansen has received assurances from Williams and his agent Khoder Nasser that the fight will have no impact on his training and playing during the November tour of Europe.
"I think he's just going to get off the plane and do it. It's the sort of athlete he is," Hansen said.
"He's pretty confident. Khoder's confident that what's going to take place won't be of hindrance to him.
"So you've got to back their judgement."
The fight promotion is to raise money for a worthy cause and Hansen understands it won't be as physically demanding as Williams' seven professional fights, which he has won.
His most recent bout was nearly four years ago against Kiwi-based American Chauncy Welliver.
Former NRL star Williams has previously had a "boxing clause" in his NZ Rugby contract.
The 33-year-old is the oldest member of this year's All Blacks squad and has battled knee and shoulder injures this season.
His lone Test appearance came against France in June before he limped off injured in the second half.
Hansen was unconcerned his first-choice inside centre was putting the gloves back on.
"No. We've got guys boxing all the time as part of their training," he said.
"It's more of an exhibition fight than a go down and knock yourself out fight, if that makes sense."
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