• [Daily Mirror Icon]
• Sport
• Rugby Union
• Rugby Union

Rugby star, 26, dies from suspected heatstroke after training session

Japanese rugby club Kyuden Voltex have confirmed the tragic death of forward Saimoni Vuilagi at the age of just 26

[Saimoni Vunilagi]

View Image

Saimoni Vunilagi has sadly passed away at the age of 26(Image: https://league-one.jp/en/)

Japanese rugby club Kyuden Voltex said they were devastated following the death of Fijian forward Saimoni Vunilagi from suspected heatstroke.

Kyuden Voltex, who play in the Japanese leagues second tier, announced Vunilagi, 26, died on Friday morning, having been taken to hospital on Monday after a training session.

A club statement read: After team practice on Monday, August 3, 2026, Saimoni displayed symptoms consistent with severe heatstroke.

He was transported to a medical facility for treatment, but despite the best efforts of the medical team, he sadly passed away.

The players, staff, and all team associates are devastated by this sudden news.

Although Saimoni had only recently joined Kyushu KV, his generous spirit and powerful style of play had raised high hopes for his contributions in the upcoming season.

We humbly pray for the repose of his soul and extend our heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family.

A statement from Japan Rugby League One added: "We express our heartfelt condolences upon receiving the news of the passing of Saimoni. We offer our deepest condolences to the bereaved family and all those involved."

Vunilagi attended university in Japan and joined Kyuden Voltex last month from Japan Rugby League One side Tokyo Sungoliath.

A minutes silence was held before Japans 35-32 defeat by Australia on Saturday as a mark of respect to Vunilagi. Two of his former team-mates at Sungoliath, Kanji Shimokawa and Naoto Saito, started for Eddie Joness team.

[Daily Mirror Icon]

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.