Previously off contract at the end of this season, the 22-year-old will now remain with the Dragons until the end of the 2023 campaign.

Ravalawa shot into the first-grade side after a dominant showing in a pre-season clash with the Knights in 2019, playing 23 NRL games since making his debut in round one last year.

Read more: Frizell determined to leave St George Illawarra on positive note

A promising talent that has shown steady improvement in the top grade, St George Illawarra were forced to fight off a number of other clubs to retain Ravalawa's services.

The winger said it has been a steep learning curve, but he is looking forward to improving his game in the coming seasons.

"I'm happy to be re-signing with the club," Ravalawa said. "It's so good living down in the Wollongong area and I'm very comfortable with my decision.

"I'm super excited to go around with the Dragons again and spend further time with the boys here. I have built great relationships at the club, which can be tough to do sometimes being from Fiji.

"I know I am still improving as a player too. Last weekend I made a few errors under the high ball but I know I can be better. I'll be doing my best to make the team happy every time I play."

Ravalawa has scored 14 tries in the top grade, including two in Sunday's victory over the Sharks.

He has retained his spot in the Dragons side ahead of 19-year-old Jason Saab, who recently asked for a release from his contract. That request was denied.

St George Illawarra recruitment manager Ian Millward praised Ravalawa for remaining with the side despite the interest from other clubs.

"We are rapt that Mika and his partner have shown faith in the Dragons as there was plenty of competition looking to secure his services," Millward said.

"Mika is very powerful and very strong, and someone who has made great in-roads in his training, performances and the way he's earned the respect of the playing squad and our staff.

"When we first signed him we knew we wanted him to be a long-term Dragon. As he continues to evolve as a player we're confident Mika will be one of the better Fijian players to have played numerous seasons in the NRL."

Ravalawa's contract extension comes as the Dragons prepare to release English forward James Graham.

The veteran prop is in talks with former club St Helens as a replacement for Luke Thompson, who has just arrived in Australia after signing with the Bulldogs.

St George Illawarra are happy to release Graham once they secure a replacement player.

While Issac Luke also departed at the start of this week, the club did announce the re-signing of Adam Clune prior to his debut a fortnight ago.

With a number of emerging players locked up, new Dragons chief executive Ryan Webb said the future is looking positive.

"Mikaele's commitment to the Red V is another positive step for St George Illawarra and follows the recent extension of Adam Clune," Webb said. "We're excited by what lies ahead for our club."

Sign up for Tackle Count, the NRL newsletter you need: Straight to your mailbox every Thursday before the footy kicks off