Chiefs lock Naitoa Ah Kuoi has become an internet sensation after delivering an iconic post-match interview in the wake of his side’s 33-30 win over the Melbourne Rebels.
The fundamentally authentic appearance which Ah Kuoi gave viewers of himself has strengthened his fanbase and all began when he was told on Stan Sport Rugby that he was the player of the match.
“Oh yeah, interesting. That was ugly but we’re happy to take the win,” he said. “It’s always tough coming on tour and facing a good side. We’ll take it.”
He was swiftly asked about his colourfully painted nails, to which he responded: “Me and mumsy went on a little date night, it was her birthday. It’s a bit of a Rasta thing.”
The conversation then turned to what he was listening to pre-game when he appeared on the field, barefoot, with sunglasses on.
“A bit of Fleetwood Mac and a bit of House of Shem.”
In an attempt to turn the interview back to rugby matters, Ah Kuoi began explaining his approach to being a second row.
“There are a lot of good locks in our ranks so when I get the opportunity to play, I’ve just got to come and do my thing. I like to be elusive and throw in a bit of footwork. I don’t want to get smoked too many times.”
Is this one of the best post-match interviews of all time? ? #SuperRugbyPacific #Rugby #StanSportAu pic.twitter.com/kYW21POhWm
— Stan Sport Rugby (@StanSportRugby) May 15, 2022
After a poor showing last season, the Australian teams are bouncing back, making the Chiefs’ bid to return to the Super Rugby knockout stages that bit harder.
“These guys are fronting up. The Brumbies and Reds are good sides. The Rebels took us to the end and we had to dig deep.
“We don’t want be complacent. We want to make sure every week we’re ticking it off and building towards a home quarter final.
“For me I just keep it relaxed, loosey goosey, with a bit of reggae.”