'A disgrace': Nick Riewoldt fumes after learning result of ex-Demons star Angus Brayshaw's insurance fight

Ex-Demons star Angus Brayshaw's failed bid to receive an insurance payout for a concussion that ended his career has been labelled a "disgrace" by Nick Riewoldt.

It was reported by the Herald Sun on Wednesday that Brayshaw's fight with Zurich Insurance had come to an end, with the premiership winner missing out on a payout.

Brayshaw had pleaded for recorded phone conversations between the insurance company and his neurologist who completed his cognitive assessments to be released after revealing he still experiences symptoms after suffering eight brain bleeds.

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The midfielder claimed he was relying heavily on his wife, Danielle, to help him perform basic tasks. He also said he'd been unable to exercise properly since February, 2024.

But in the Australian Financial Complaints Authority's investigation, the neurologist who conducted his cognitive assessments cited Brayshaw's wedding photos and speech at last year's Brownlow Medal ceremony as evidence that he could still do daily tasks.

It was that evidence that finalised a two-year investigation by the AFCA.

"This was a guy in the prime of his career, playing in a big final - he gets knocked out, has eight brain bleeds, and he can't get a pay out," Riewoldt fumed on Triple M's Mick in the Morning.

"Look at the way this guy went about his career ... he was an absolute warrior. You're not hamming this up. It's a disgrace.

"The Australian Financial Complaints Authority has decided in their assessment that he was able to perform reasonably in his life.

"A neurologist in the report then said that they reviewed video of him standing and smiling at his wedding, as well as his emotional five-minute speech at the Brownlow ceremony in 2024 ... so they've used that against him."

Australian comedian Mick Molloy added: "This is outrageous. He can't do his trade, so surely there's compensation for that."

Riewoldt noted that not only did Brayshaw lose the possibility of a hefty payout, but all AFL players from May 1 are no longer covered for brain injuries under the AFL Players' Association's total and permanent disability coverage in their superannuation plans.

The revised policy was announced in March by Zurich Insurance.

"They've removed the cover for traumatic post-concussion syndrome, mental health related issues relating to concussion," the 43-year-old St Kilda great added.

"As it stands right now, someone who goes and plays this weekend, if they suffer a bad head knock and it ends their careers, they're not covered.

"Angus was covered, but it doesn't matter (due to the criteria)."

Riewoldt admitted that he "feels for" players who have been caught in insurance payout battles, like Brayshaw, and ex-Collingwood duo Nathan Murphy and Paul Seedsman.

"The AFLPA have to step up," Riewoldt concluded.