Rugby has always celebrated size and power, but some players have taken physicality to another level entirely.
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We explore the ten heaviest players in the sport’s history, from modern international enforcers to cult figures of earlier eras.
These giants reshaped scrummaging, collisions and forward play, proving that sheer mass can be as influential as skill at the highest level of rugby union history ever.
10 Taniela Tupou – 140kg
Known as the Tongan Thor, Taniela Tupou has become a fan favourite for the Wallabies thanks to his explosive ball carries and spectacular offloads.
With more than 65 international caps and a cult following from his time with the Queensland Reds, he has a reputation for turning scrums into destructive weapons while still possessing impressive speed for a front row forward.
Now playing for Racing 92, Tupou has represented Australia for almost a decade. Although born in Tonga, he qualified for the Wallabies through residency.
9 James Johnston – 145kg
A seasoned tighthead prop, James Johnston earned 16 caps for Samoa and enjoyed a lengthy club career with Harlequins, Saracens, Worcester and Brive. Renowned for his immense scrummaging power and uncompromising approach, he continues to play at the age of 40 for Ampthill in the Championship.
Rugby talent runs in the family, with Johnston the brother of fellow prop Census Johnston, who weighs in at a comparatively modest 137kg.
8 JJ van der Mescht – 145kg
JJ van der Mescht has enjoyed a standout season with Northampton Saints and is widely recognised across England for his physical and aggressive style of play. His imposing frame and athletic ability make him one of the most difficult forwards to contain.
Frequently used as a powerful ball carrier, van der Mescht often requires multiple defenders to bring him down, creating opportunities and space for teammates elsewhere on the field. The South African remains an outside contender for a Springboks call-up this summer.
7 Emmanuel Meafou – 145kg
Toulouse lock Emmanuel Meafou has developed into one of the most formidable forwards in world rugby. A Champions Cup and Top 14 winner, the towering second row combines immense size with surprising athleticism.
Born in New Zealand to Samoan parents before being raised in Australia, Meafou gained French citizenship in 2023 and made his international debut for France the following year.
6 Will Skelton – 148kg
A former Wallabies captain and one of rugby’s most dominant forwards, Will Skelton has enjoyed success with both Saracens and La Rochelle, winning major European honours along the way. His rare blend of size, mobility and handling ability makes him a unique presence on the field.
While injuries have occasionally disrupted his career, Skelton remains incredibly difficult to stop when fully fit. In August 2023, he was named Australia captain for the Rugby World Cup.
5 Posolo Tuilagi – 149kg
Posolo Tuilagi is the latest powerhouse to emerge from rugby’s famous Tuilagi family. Already a France international and a key figure for Perpignan, he has brought the family’s trademark physicality to the second row.
Weighing close to 150kg, Tuilagi moves remarkably well for a player of his size, combining brute force with impressive athleticism.
