US-born New Zealander Maliu Niuafe played in Major League Rugby during the 2025 season. He represented Rugby FC LA (2025) and the New England Free Jacks (2026).

Born in Sacramento, CA and raised in Auckland, New Zealand, Niuafe represented Auckland at U19 level in 2022 before representing New Zealand at U20 level in 2023. He played in the Auckland NPC Contenders squad for the 2024 season and the Moana Pasifika wider squad in late 2024, before joining Rugby FC LA in February 2025.

RFCLA‘s signing of Maliu Niuafe was announced when they revealed their full 2025 roster on February 6th, 2025. He started 12 of his 15 appearances for RFCLA in 2025, completing over 100 tackles to help the team qualify for their first postseason appearance, falling in the Western Conference Semifinal to the Houston SaberCats. He headed back to New Zealand following the MLR season, and represented Auckland in the NPC before being called up to the USA National team squad for their Pacific Nations Cup Campaign, earning his debut as Eagle #596 in the USA’s victory over Samoa that clinched the Eagles a spot at the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.

Following Rugby FC LA’s merger with San Diego Legion to create the California Legion, Maliu Niuafe became a free agent. On 8th December, the New England Free Jacks announced the addition of the 22yo prop for the 2026 Major League Rugby campaign.

achievements

• MLR Team of the Week: 2025 – Rd 14

NARDB Player #1,383