Eben Etzebeth names powerhouse All Black as his toughest opponents

Instead, speaking to RugbyPass'

Rugby Roots series, the two-time Rugby World Cup winner reeled off six names that earned his ultimate respect.

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Etzebeth’s Reflection: “Back in the day… he hit me once and he just hit me from the side. I thought it was one of their props hitting me… he was quite a hard man. Probably the guy who tackled me the hardest.”

Bio: Ma’a Nonu is a true All Black legend, earning over 100 caps and helping New Zealand to back-to-back Rugby World Cup triumphs in 2011 and 2015. Born in Wellington, he became a household name with the Hurricanes before later spells in France and Japan.

Nonu’s career was defined by evolution: from a raw, physical ball-carrier early on to a complete midfield general capable of guiding attacks with deft passing and tactical awareness.

His partnership with Conrad Smith in the All Blacks midfield is considered one of the greatest in rugby history. Off the pitch, Nonu is known for his humility and longevity, returning multiple times to Super Rugby even after overseas stints, proving his enduring love for the game.

He's still playing for Toulon aged 42 to this day.

Etzebeth’s Respect: Skelton is one of the physically most imposing opponents Etzebeth has ever faced.

Bio: Will Skelton, born in Sydney, Australia, is known as one of the biggest men in world rugby, standing over two meters tall and weighing around 130kg.

Making his debut for the Wallabies in 2013, Skelton quickly earned a reputation for crushing carries, defensive dominance, and aerial skill in the lineout. He played domestically for the Waratahs and had a successful stint with French club Las Rochelle, winning the Top 14 and Champions Cup.

Skelton’s size and skill combination has made him a nightmare for any opposition lock, and he has consistently tested top-tier players like Etzebeth throughout his career. Off the field, he is admired for his professionalism and calm leadership in the Australian squad.

Etzebeth’s View: He speaks highly of Itoje’s athleticism—his ability to disrupt breakdowns, put pressure on scrum-halves, and dominate loose play.

Bio: Maro Itoje has been a mainstay of England rugby since his Test debut in 2016, rising through the Saracens system to become one of the sport’s most recognisable figures.

Born in Camden, he quickly became a serial winner with Saracens, lifting Premiership and European trophies while establishing himself as one of the best locks in the world.

In 2025, Itoje was named England captain and also became captain of the British & Irish Lions for the tour of Australia, making history as the first Black man to lead the side and the first Englishman in the role since Martin Johnson in 2001.

He has featured in both the 2017 and 2021 Lions tours and now carries the responsibility of leading rugby’s most famous touring team. Off the pitch, Itoje is articulate and thoughtful, known for his interests in politics, art, and culture, making him one of the most well-rounded figures in the modern game.

Etzebeth’s Take: He counts Retallick among the elite locks he’s had the privilege of competing against.

Bio: Brodie Retallick is one of the defining All Blacks of his era. Standing at over two metres tall, he earned more than 100 Test caps after making his debut in 2012.

Retallick was a central figure in New Zealand’s Rugby World Cup triumph in 2015 and was recognised globally when he became World Rugby Player of the Year in 2014, one of the few locks ever to achieve the honour.

A product of the Chiefs, he helped them win back-to-back Super Rugby titles before later enjoying a stint in Japan with the Kobelco Kobe Steelers.

Known as much for his durability as his skill, Retallick has been a constant presence in one of the most competitive positions in world rugby. His mix of grit, consistency, and longevity make him a player admired across the globe.

Etzebeth’s Acknowledgment: He ranks Jones alongside other world-class second-row opponents.

Bio: Alun Wyn Jones is rugby’s most-capped international player, with 170 appearances for Wales and a further 12 for the British & Irish Lions.

Born in Swansea, he spent his club career with the Ospreys, becoming a symbol of loyalty and leadership. His international career spanned from 2006 to 2023, featuring in four Rugby World Cups and five Six Nations titles, including three Grand Slams.

Jones also played on four Lions tours, captaining the side against South Africa in 2021 after originally being ruled out through injury, in one of the most remarkable comebacks the game has seen.

His leadership qualities and sheer resilience defined him as one of the toughest competitors the sport has produced, and his name is etched firmly into rugby history.

Etzebeth’s Admiration: Another premier lock he’s consistently matched up against on the international stage.

Bio: James Ryan has been one of Ireland’s standout forwards since bursting onto the scene in 2017. Born in Dublin, he made an immediate impact at Leinster, helping the province to multiple European and domestic successes.

Internationally, Ryan was part of Ireland’s Grand Slam-winning team in 2018 and has since been involved in a string of famous victories, including historic wins over the All Blacks.

Still only in his late twenties, Ryan has already captained Ireland on several occasions, underlining the respect he commands within the squad. His blend of youthful energy and leadership potential means he is widely tipped to be a central figure for Ireland well into the next decade.