Springbok coach Rassie drops bombshell news about Makazole Mapimpi ahead of clash against All Blacks

Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus has unveiled the lineup for Saturday’s clash against the All Blacks in the fourth round of the 2024 Castle Lager Rugby Championship.

But what got fans buzzing wasn’t just the squad – it was the revelation that veteran winger Makazole Mapimpi is not only married but expecting his first child any day now.

This surprise sparked a wave of emotional and humorous reactions across social media platforms.

Fans have shared their stunned reactions, with many expressing their joy for the beloved Springbok player.

Mapimpi, who has long been a fan favourite for his resilience and extraordinary talent, has touched hearts again – not with his on-field heroics, but with his personal life.

@aiki_sa shared heartfelt sentiments, saying, “I hope Makazole Mapimpi can see himself trending on here and feel the waves and waves of endless love going his way.”

This sentiment was echoed by many, with Twitter user @lloydbhudda adding: “Makazole Mapimpi having a family of his own is special. His story in Chasing The Sun was beyond sad. When Springbok players had pictures of their families put on their 2019 World Cup jerseys, he only had pictures of himself because his immediate relatives had passed on.”

This touching revelation about Mapimpi’s past has added an emotional depth to the outpouring of love.

For fans who followed his journey from tragedy to triumph, the news of him starting a family is more than just a feel-good moment – it’s a testament to his resilience.

Twitter user @whitehobo_inc perfectly captured the emotional wave, writing, “It is such a special story. I am so happy for him and his wife. The Springboks are such a wonderful family, and now he has one of his own. I can just imagine him bringing the baby to them and the big, burly teammates grabbing hugs of goodness and hope.”

The Springboks, known for their camaraderie and close-knit spirit, seem poised to celebrate Mapimpi’s new chapter. @OlwethuMbane joyfully posted, “So happy for Mapimpi champompo, champizzy… Cheers to his family!

But, as always, South Africans added their signature humour to the moment. @Chante_poppie quipped, “I blame Top Billing. We would have gotten the full Mapimpi wedding feature and alles.”

Others, like @zan__m, shared how deeply the news has affected them, with a cheeky note: “My boyfriend basically said crying online about Mapimpi is emotionally cheating.

The reactions across TikTok were just as lively, with users flooding the platform with videos celebrating Mapimpi’s new journey into fatherhood.

From heartfelt posts to downright hilarious clips, fans are showing love for the man who’s stolen their hearts on and off the field.

Makazole Mapimpi’s story continues to inspire, and fans’ outpouring of love and support proves just how much he’s cherished.

As his baby’s due date nears, one thing is certain: the Springboks – and all of South Africa – are ready to welcome this new chapter in his life with open arms.