‘Am I paralysed?’: Rugby player survives terrifying head injury, vows never to play again

A Nelson rugby player who feared he had been paralysed after a heavy on-field collision says the terrifying moment has reshaped his life, his family priorities and his future in the sport.

martedì 26 maggio 2026 New tab

TL;DRAI

Nelson rugby player Kwaid Ahhoi lost all limb sensation after a head-and-neck collision and has retired permanently; doctors warn another knock risks paralysis or death. His case adds pressure on rugby's concussion governance, following former Māori All Black Shane Christie's posthumous high-stage CTE diagnosis.

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A Nelson rugby player who feared he had been paralysed after a heavy on-field collision says the terrifying moment has reshaped his life, his family priorities and his future in the sport. Nadine Roberts reports.

He was running the ball, doing what he’s always done — carrying it forward before placing it back for his team-mates — when Kwaid Ahhoi felt something strike the back of his head and neck.

Then he blacked out.

As the Nelson Rugby Club player lay motionless on the field, team-mates from both his team and Waimea Old Boys gathered around him in a circle of concern and prayer.

When he eventually came to, he could hear the team physio talking to him nearby.