Sonny Bill Williams
| Sonny Bill Williams | |
|---|---|
| File:Sonny Bill Williams 2011.jpgSonny_Bill_Williams_2011.jpg Williams in 2011 | |
| Born | Sonny William Williams August 3, 1985 Auckland, New Zealand |
| 🏫 Education | Bachelor of Applied Management (Sport Management) |
| 🎓 Alma mater | Otago Polytechnic |
| 💼 Occupation | Professional Boxer, Sports Commentator, University Pro-Chancellor, Sports Ambassador |
| 📆 Years active | 2004–present |
| Height | 1.91 m (6 ft 3 in) |
| 💪 Weight | 108 kg (238 lb) 108 kg (238 lb) |
| 👩 Spouse(s) | Alana Raffie (m. 2013) |
| 👶 Children | 5 |
| 🌐 Website | www |
Early Life
Sonny William Williams was born on 3 August 1985 in Auckland, New Zealand. He is of Samoan descent, with his father being Samoan and his mother of New Zealand European descent. He attended Mount Albert Grammar School in Auckland.
Rugby League Career
Williams began his professional rugby league career with the Canterbury Bulldogs in the National Rugby League (NRL) in 2004. He was known for his athleticism, skill, and ability to break tackles. In his debut season, Williams contributed to the Bulldogs' NRL Premiership win.
In 2008, Williams made a highly publicized mid-season switch to French rugby union club Toulon. His departure from the Bulldogs generated controversy but marked the beginning of his dual-code career. Williams returned to rugby league in 2013, joining the Sydney Roosters and helping them win the NRL Premiership in his first season.
In 2020, Williams joined the Toronto Wolfpack in the English Super League, although the team faced financial difficulties that led to his departure after a brief stint.
Rugby Union Career
Williams' rugby union career began with Toulon in 2008. After playing in France, he returned to New Zealand in 2010 and played for the Crusaders, Chiefs, and Blues in Super Rugby.
Williams was a key member of the New Zealand national team, the All Blacks, winning Rugby World Cups in 2011 and 2015. He was known for his versatility, playing both as a centre and on the wing, and for his unique offloading skills.
Williams also represented New Zealand in rugby sevens, playing in the 2016 Rio Olympics. Throughout his rugby union career, he earned 58 caps and scored 65 points for the All Blacks.
Boxing Career
Alongside his rugby career, Williams pursued boxing. He made his professional boxing debut in 2009, and over the course of his boxing career, he compiled an undefeated record for much of his time in the ring. Williams held multiple titles, including the New Zealand Professional Boxing Association (NZPBA) Heavyweight Championship and the World Boxing Association (WBA) International Heavyweight title.
Williams retired from rugby in 2021 to focus on his boxing career. He has continued to stay active in the sport and is regarded as one of the most successful athletes to compete in both rugby and boxing.
Personal Life
In 2009, Williams converted to Islam, making him the first Muslim to play for the New Zealand All Blacks. He is fluent in English, Samoan, and Arabic and is a dual citizen of both New Zealand and Samoa.
Williams married Alana Raffie in 2013, and they have five children together.
Academic and Administrative Roles
In November 2024, Williams was appointed as the inaugural Pro-Chancellor of Albukhary International University (AIU) in Malaysia. He officially began his role in December 2024, becoming a prominent figure in the university's leadership. In addition to his university role, Williams was appointed as the sports ambassador for the state of Johor in 2025.
Publications
Williams published a memoir, *You Can't Stop the Sun from Shining*, in
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