Makazole Mapimpi Faces Backlash Over Alleged Eye Gouging Incident During Sharks Victory Against Cardiff in January 2025

In an unexpected and fiery moment, South African rugby star Makazole Mapimpi lost his usual calm demeanor during a clash with Cardiff Rugby’s Efan Daniel.

The incident has sparked controversy, with many labeling the Springbok and Sharks wing as a “rugby thug” following the altercation.

The Incident That Stoked the Fire

The heated exchange occurred during the second half of the match between the Sharks and Cardiff on Saturday, 25 January, which ended with the Sharks winning 42-22.

Mapimpi and Cardiff’s 22-year-old Efan Daniel had a confrontation after the referee awarded a penalty to the home team.

A video posted on social media shows Mapimpi, 34, colliding with Daniel before the two engaged in a brief scuffle.

In the midst of the altercation, Daniel ripped Mapimpi’s shirt off, and the pair exchanged harsh words and attempted swipes at each other.

Accusations and Disputes Over Eye Gouging

Wales Online reported that Mapimpi allegedly attempted to “eye gouge” Daniel during the scuffle, a claim that has stirred debate online.

Some rugby fans have backed the allegation, with Welsh rugby critic Andrew Forde tweeting that Mapimpi could be “one of rugby’s biggest thugs” for his actions.

Other users echoed similar sentiments, calling for a long ban for the Springbok winger.

However, there are those who disagree, arguing that Mapimpi did not commit any foul play.

Some even suggested that it was Daniel who attempted an eye gouge on the South African player.

No official comment from either Mapimpi or Sharks coach John Plumtree was made regarding the incident after the game.

A History of Controversy

This wasn’t the first time Makazole Mapimpi found himself in hot water over eye gouging allegations.

In 2022, he was banned for four weeks after being found guilty of eye gouging Bordeaux-Bègles scrumhalf Maxime Lucu during a European Rugby Champions Cup match.

The ban was later reduced to two weeks following a disciplinary hearing, which found that Mapimpi’s actions were reckless but not malicious.

Eye Gouging and Its Serious Consequences in Rugby

Eye gouging is considered a serious offence in rugby, and World Rugby classifies it as foul play.

The sport’s governing body defines foul play as any action against the letter and spirit of the game’s laws, including dangerous play and misconduct.

Players found guilty of eye gouging can face bans ranging from four weeks to three years, depending on the severity of the offence.