Kyuden Voltex forward Saimoni Vunilagi dies from severe heatstroke after training

Japan Rugby League One announced the death of 26-year-old forward Saimoni Vunilagi, who played for second-division side Kyuden Voltex. The player became ill four days after a practice on Aug. 3, 2026, exhibiting severe heatstroke symptoms and was taken to a hospital in Fukuoka, where he later died. The club expressed deep sorrow, noting the sudden loss for players, staff, and supporters.

Vunilagi, originally from Fiji, had joined Tokyo Sungoliath in 2023 after graduating from Daito Bunka University, and his move to Voltex was publicized only last month. Authorities have issued severe heatstroke warnings for Fukuoka and surrounding southwestern Japan due to recent extreme temperatures.