Former All Blacks prop Karl Tu'inukuafe retires from rugby

Former All Blacks prop Karl Tu'inukuafe, who lost over 30 kilograms to achieve his rugby dream — becoming a cult hero in the process — has announced his retirement.

Tu'inukuafe, 31, who was All Black 1171 and played 27 tests, rose from relative obscurity to make the All Blacks in 2018.

After reaching 170kg, the former Auckland security guard was warned by doctors that he would face health issues if he didn't lose weight. In response, Tu'inukuafe decided to get back into rugby.

Tu'inukuafe played NPC for North Harbour in 2015, followed by some time at French club Narbonne. He would go on to join the Chiefs as injury cover in 2018. He was scheduled to move to the Blues in 2019.

Tu'inukuafe managed to shed down to about 135 kilograms and was called up to the All Blacks in 2018, winning on debut against France at Eden Park. He famously cried while lining up for the national anthem.

His story made him a cult hero among rugby fans, and in 2018, he was nominated for World Rugby's Breakthrough Player of the Year.

Tu'inukuafe played four seasons for the Blues and made his last appearance for the All Blacks against Ireland in 2022.

In a post to Instagram Tu'inukuafe reflected on his career.

"I was never great, but I was always grateful' - me, my whole career," he said.

"I never played NZ Secondary Schools, NZU20's. I never dreamt of becoming a pro footy player, but God had other plans.

"If you think you're too overweight or getting too old to go pro, never fold. It's been done before.

"The last 10 years were great."

The Blues congratulated Tu'inukuafe on his career.

"The door is always open for you at Blues HQ."