Christopher Tolofua is undergoing a transformation from a number 8 to a prop, as Montpellier has focused its summer preparations on adapting the 32-year-old player. Specific training has been conducted in scrums and weight gain. The temporary return of Jordan Uelese to the number 8 position, due to a jaw fracture expected to keep him out for about six weeks, required Tolofua to be placed back in the number 8 role. According to Midol information, Tolofua is expected to cover the number 3 position from the bench during the match against Toulouse on Sunday. Tolofua has experience in the prop position, as Montpellier used him on the right side last season. In a match against Perpignan, he demonstrated his strength and regained his number 8 habits. Joan Caudullo remarked, "They asked him to gain weight... he didn't hesitate to do it well!" Switching from number 8 to prop involves more than just weight gain. As a prop, Tolofua must withstand the push of the opposing left prop, manage his entry angle, and maintain enough height to avoid being affected. His background as a number 8 provides him with a low center of gravity, power on the supports, and real ball-handling skills. This profile is intriguing for Montpellier. In the 2025-2026 season, Tolofua scored nine tries in 24 Top 14 matches with Montpellier, indicating a player who is very present near the line and available after combat phases. If he maintains this activity while becoming reliable in set pieces, Montpellier will have a rare profile. The position of prop has become one of the projects for the French team since the retirement of Uini Atonio. Seven different players were used in the international season 2025-2026, with Dorian Aldegheri being the most requested, while Régis Montagne, Demba Bamba, Tevita Tatafu, Sipili Falatea, and Georges-Henri Colombe were also tested. Caudullo does not hide the objective: he estimates Tolofua capable of aiming for the 2027 World Cup in Australia. Tolofua's last selection with the French team was in 2017, when he was still a number 8. A second international career at another position would be quite interesting. Before Australia, Tolofua will need to win scrums in the Top 14. Toulouse offers a serious test. At 32, Tolofua no longer needs to prove he knows how to play rugby. He now needs to show he can sustainably live on the right side of the front row.