Kwagga Smith has signed a three-year contract with the Bulls following the mutual termination of his deal with Shizuoka Blue Revs, ending an eight-year stint in Japan that began when he joined Yamaha Júbilo in 2018.
The 33-year-old suffered a torn ACL and meniscus while playing for the Blue Revs in May 2026, ruling him out for the remainder of that season. He has since been cleared to return to play at the end of December and says he is already jogging. Smith expects to be available for the Bulls from early next year, a timeline that also aligns with his wife's pregnancy — she is due in January.
Bulls head coach Johan Ackermann, who previously coached Smith at the Lions, was central to the move. "As a youngster, he showed character and fight and integrity," Ackermann said. "He's a team man who has grown into a stalwart, and it's been a privilege to watch his career unfold and establish himself as one of the best back-rows in world rugby."
Smith himself cited the prospect of reuniting with Ackermann as a key factor. "Playing under Johan Ackermann was one of my best experiences. I'm looking forward to getting back by early next year."
The Blue Revs paid tribute to their departing stalwart, noting his 63 Springbok caps and his role as "an important figure who has built the club's history." Smith's Test record includes the 2019 and 2023 World Cup victories, the 2021 Lions series win, and Rugby Championship titles in 2019, 2024 and 2025.
Before establishing himself in the 15-man game, Smith was a decorated Blitzboks player, winning Commonwealth Games gold in Glasgow in 2014 and Olympic bronze in Rio in 2016. He was part of the Lions squad that won the 2015 Currie Cup before his move to Japan.
Bulls CEO Edgar Rathbone said Smith's hunger remained intact despite his trophy-laden career. "His work rate, physicality and fearlessness are exactly what we want in Vodacom Bulls colours. He will drive standards inside our group."