Luqobo “Bibo” Makwedini had mapped out a journey to represent the Springboks at the 2031 World Cup before his tragic death in France last month.
The 20-year-old prop, who died after suffering cardiac arrest during a training session with French club Béziers on 10 July, was laid to rest in his home town of Komga in the Eastern Cape on Saturday.
A product of Wynberg Boys’ High, Makwedini represented SA U18 before joining the Béziers academy ahead of the 2025-26 season. He had reportedly been in line for promotion to the club’s senior squad.
MORE: Former SA U18 prop dies aged 20
Speaking to News24, his aunt, Thandiwe Makwedini, revealed just how meticulously her nephew had planned his rugby career.
“Bibo grew up in the family that really loved rugby,” she said, referring to his late father, Mawethu, who played more than 100 matches for Border and the Leopards.
“Bibo was dedicated to rugby. It was clear from less than 10 years of his age that he was going to dedicate his life to rugby.
“He was focused and fearless. Bibo was a go-getter and a solution-driven child. He was visionary. He had what he called Vision 2031 for his rugby career.”
According to Thandiwe, Makwedini’s ultimate ambition was to wear the green and gold at the 2031 World Cup.
“When he tells us of this vision, he would take us through his planning and targets,” she said.
“He was so sure he would make it to the Springboks. We are so saddened that his dream failed to materialise due to an untimely death.”
The post Deceased star dreamed of 2031 Bok jersey appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Luqobo “Bibo” Makwedini had mapped out a journey to represent the Springboks at the 2031 World Cup before his tragic death in France last month.
The post Deceased star dreamed of 2031 Bok jersey appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
