We and our partners store and/or access information on a device, such as cookies and process
personal data, such as unique identifiers and standard information sent by a device for
personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, and audience insights, as well as
to develop and improve products.
With your permission we and our partners may use precise geolocation. You may click to
consent to our and our partners’ processing as described above. Please note that some
processing of your personal data may not require your consent, but you have a right to
object to such processing.
This is an important message requiring you to make a choice if you're based in the U.S.
California.
We, and our partners, use technologies to process personal information, including IP
addresses,pseudonymous identifiers associated with cookies, and in some cases mobile ad IDs.This
information is processed to personalize content based on your interests, run and optimize
marketing campaigns, measure the performance of ads and content, and derive insights about the
audiences who engage with ads and content. This data is an integral part of how we operate our
site, make revenue to support our staff, and generate relevant content for our audience. You can
learn more about our data collection and use practices in our Privacy Policy.
NEWS: Bulls centre Lionel Mapoe has announced his retirement from rugby and thanked the Bulls for his journey in the blue jersey as he gets ready to lace up and climb into the boxing ring.
The 36-year-old Mapoe said one of the highlights of his career was winning the Currie Cup with the Bulls in 2021, adding: "I want to express my heartfelt thanks to the entire Bulls family for the incredible time I had during my years at the union.
"Winning the Currie Cup in 2021 was a special moment in my career, and it wouldn’t have been possible without the amazing coaches, players, and staff I was fortunate to work alongside. The relationships I built during my time there will stay with me for a lifetime.
"I’m deeply grateful for everything the ulls have done for me, both on and off the field," he stated on social media.
It is rumoured that Mapoe will step into the boxing ring to face a former team mate Elton Jantjies on November 30.
According to him he might still consider playing for another year but has no immediate plans and will most likely go into coaching.
He made his senior debut for the Cheetahs in the 2008 Currie Cup and quickl earned himself a spot in the Cheetahs' Super Rugby squad in 2010. He made his Super Rugby debut against the Bulls in the opening round of that season, marking the beginning of his top-tier professional career.
After his stint with the Cheetahs, Mapoe joined the Lions in 2011. He continued to make significant strides in his career, even spending a year on loan with the Bulls in 2013 when the Lions were relegated.
In 2015, Mapoe's talent and hard work were rewarded when he earned a call-up to the Springbok squad for the the Rugby Championship and had a real chance to be selected for the 2015 World Cup.
His performances for the Lions in the 2015 Super Rugby edition played a crucial role in catching the attention of the national selectors. Prior to this, he had already represented the SA Under-20 team and SA Sevens team, highlighting his versatility and skill set.
Mapoe moved the Bulls in 2021 where he ultimately would end off his career.
Recommended
Trending
1
South African forward leaves Glasgow
2
A Springboks wish list for 2025
3
WATCH: Hot-stepping Bok's brutal introduction to Japan League One