Lions vs Australia Referee Stabbed by Fan in Shocking Attack

Born in Tbilisi in 1994, Nika Amashukeli grew up a football fan like most kids in Georgia—but everything changed when he was 11. That year, his father sat him down in front of the TV and “literally forced” him to watch Ireland v Georgia during the 2007 Rugby World Cup.

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One match was all it took. He was hooked.

From that moment, Amashukeli’s life pivoted to rugby. He took up the sport himself and went on to represent Georgia at U17, U18, and U19 level, even earning a spot in the squad for the 2012 European Under-18 Championship. But a brutal string of injuries—five concussions, a broken ankle, and chronic knee issues—forced him to retire aged just 20.

Still, his love for the game never faded. Instead, it evolved.

In 2015, Amashukeli swapped boots for a whistle, taking charge of his first Test match when he refereed the first half of Montenegro v Estonia in the European Nations Cup Third Division.

He steadily built his reputation, officiating at the 2019 World Rugby U20 Championship in Argentina before sharing the pitch with his refereeing hero, Wayne Barnes, during the 2020 Autumn Nations Cup.

A year later, he etched his name into the history books.

In July 2021, Amashukeli became the first Georgian to referee a tier one international as he took charge of Wales v Canada in Cardiff. That year, he also oversaw Ireland v Japan, Barbarians v Tonga, and Wales v Australia. The following season brought another milestone: his first Six Nations appearance as Ireland demolished Italy in Dublin. He returned for the 2023 Championship, cementing his status as one of the sport’s rising officiating stars.

But Amashukeli’s journey nearly ended before it ever really began.

In 2016, during a Didi 10 domestic match between Armia and Batumi, chaos erupted after a dramatic finish saw Armia snatch a last-gasp draw. Miscommunication over the match time left the Batumi players—and their fans—furious.

“There was no official timekeeping—referees controlled the time,” Amashukeli later told 

The Telegraph. “I told one of the captains there were four minutes left. He misheard and thought I said two. They kicked it out after two minutes thinking it was over. But there were still two minutes to go. The other team took the line-out, won a penalty, and drew the match.”

The fallout was terrifying.

Supporters accused him of cheating. The crowd turned. Abuse and threats escalated. Then, in the middle of the chaos, someone pulled a knife.

“I felt something in my leg,” he recalled. “I looked down—blood was pouring out. I had been stabbed.”

The attacker was never found.

Shaken and hospitalised, Amashukeli thought about walking away from the sport for good. But after recovering, he made the bravest decision of all: to keep going.

Since then, he hasn’t looked back.

Australia v The B&I Lions (Sydney)
Referee: Nika Amashukeli (Geo)
ARs: Ben O’Keeffe (NZ) & Andrea Piardi (Ita)
TMO: Marius Jonker (SA)
FPRO: Richard Kelly (NZ)

he tournament’s structure and timing now better reflect current global rankings, thanks to a late pool draw in December this year made possible by reforms in 2022.

Here’s a breakdown of the predicted groups and team bios for the RWC 2027:

South Africa ??
The reigning world champions and four-time RWC winners, the Springboks bring a powerhouse blend of physicality, tactical brilliance, and iconic leadership.

Argentina ??
Los Pumas continue to rise as a Tier 1 nation, combining flair and fearlessness. Semifinalists in 2007 and 2015, they’re known for big-game upsets.

Samoa ??
With deep roots in rugby tradition, Samoa’s raw physicality and natural flair make them one of the most dangerous Tier 2 teams in the game.

Tonga ??
The ‘Ikale Tahi’ bring bone-crunching tackles and island pride. With several stars playing abroad, Tonga is always capable of springing a surprise.

New Zealand ??
The legendary All Blacks need no introduction—three-time world champions with a relentless pursuit of perfection and a legacy of innovation.

Scotland ?
A Six Nations stalwart, Scotland blends tactical kicking and dynamic playmakers, looking to go beyond the quarterfinals for the first time since 1991.

Japan ??
The Brave Blossoms became global darlings in 2019 with a stunning quarterfinal run. Expect lightning-quick rucks and passionate homegrown talent.

Chile ??
One of the emerging forces from South America, Chile made its first RWC appearance in 2023. Physical, proud, and improving fast.

Ireland ??
The current Six Nations champions and long-time world number one, Ireland seek to finally break their quarterfinal curse with a golden generation.

Fiji ??
Masters of running rugby, Fiji’s offloading game and growing discipline under top-tier coaching make them a serious threat to any opponent.

Spain ??
Los Leones are rapidly growing in the European rugby scene, blending speed and flair. Their qualification signals a new frontier for Spanish sport.

Romania ??
One of Europe’s oldest rugby nations, the Oaks are known for forward dominance and proud World Cup heritage dating back to the tournament's inception.

France ??
With dazzling backs and a rock-solid forward pack, Les Bleus are perennial contenders. Hosting in 2023 has reinvigorated their World Cup ambitions.

Italy ??
Improving steadily in the Six Nations, Italy combines young talent with seasoned veterans, eager to progress past the pool stage for the first time.

USA ??
The Eagles are building toward hosting the 2031 RWC, and 2027 will be a crucial stepping stone. Athleticism is abundant—structure is the next step.

Belgium ??
A surprise qualifier, Belgium’s Black Devils have risen thanks to domestic development and strategic coaching. This is their chance to make history.

England ?
The 2003 world champions remain a major force. With a powerful set piece and tactical nous, they always make deep runs in World Cups.

Georgia ??
Kings of the scrum, Georgia has long pushed for inclusion in the Six Nations. 2027 could be their breakout year on the global stage.

Uruguay ??
Los Teros have become a staple at RWCs and continue to punch above their weight, fueled by tenacity and growing domestic structures.

Hong Kong China ??
A fast-developing rugby nation, Hong Kong brings agility and speed. Their appearance in 2027 is a testament to Asia’s growing rugby footprint.

Australia ?? (Host)
Two-time champions and hosts of RWC 2027, the Wallabies are looking to bounce back from recent struggles with the home crowd behind them.

Wales ?
A proud rugby nation with three semifinal appearances, Wales combines tradition with explosive talent in the backline.

Portugal ??
The "Lobos" won hearts in 2023 with their fearless play. Technically sharp and fast-improving, they are no longer underdogs.

Zimbabwe ??
Returning to the RWC stage for the first time in decades, Zimbabwe’s qualification marks a historic comeback for African rugby.

The expanded format ensures more nations, more stories, and more reasons to believe in rugby’s global mission. For some teams, it’s about lifting the Webb Ellis Cup. For others, it’s about making history, inspiring a new generation, and proving that rugby is for everyone, everywhere.

With Australia as the host—rugby-mad and world-class—the stage is set for the most inclusive Rugby World Cup ever.