FIJI star Josua Tuisova was informed of his son’s death just hours before playing in a Rugby World Cup game against Georgia.
But who is Josua Tuisova and what happened to his son, Tito? Here’s everything we know so far.
GettyJosua Tuisova of Fiji is tackled by Demur Tapladze of Georgia during the Rugby World Cup France 2023, September 30, 2023, in Bordeaux, France.[/caption]
Who is Fijian rugby union player Josua Tuisova?
Josua Tuisova is a Fijian Rugby player.
The 29-year-old star has played for Toulon and Lyon and is set to start with Racing 92 after the Rugby World Cup in France.
Josua is from a Rugby family— he is the younger brother of former Fijian rugby sevens international Pio Tuwai, and his half-brother is Filipo Nakosi, who plays for Castres Olympique and Fiji international.
The Fijian wing has won a Top 14 title and two Champions Cup medals with his former club Toulon two and a Challenge Cup crown with Lyon.
Josua won an Olympic Gold medal as part of the Fiji sevens squad at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.
Josua, a wing or centre, has been given the nickname of ‘Human Bulldozer’, thanks to his running ability and strength.
What happened to Josua Tuisova’s son?
In the midst of the Rugby World Cup, Josua’s 7-year-old son, Tito, tragically died after a prolonged illness.
The sad news came just hours before Josua helped to secure Fiji’s 17-12 win over Georgia in Bordeaux last Saturday.
Josua missed his son’s funeral to stay at the Rugby World Cup.
According to Fiji Village, Josua has made the ultimate sacrifice for his team by staying in France.
The rugby star’s dad, Isikeli Ratulevu, had been making the necessary preparations for the funeral in Votua, Ba.
A statement read: “With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Tito Micgabraph Donzel Ratulevu.
“Affectionately known as “Tito,” he peacefully departed after a prolonged battle with a debilitating illness in Lautoka hospital.”
The Fijians will play Portugal in their final pool match on Sunday, with Josua set to stay in France for the remaining World Cup matches.
Is Josua Tuisova married and does he have other children?
Tito, born on 12 September 2016, was the son of Josua and Katarina Ladoge Ramoce.
Josua has another child, Timoci Eligah Ratulevu Tuisova, born in 2018.
Josua married Tarusila Voliwas at the Votua Methodist Church in Ba in 2017.
Tarusila currently works as a martial arts trainer in Fiji.
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