All Blacks Legend Frano Botica: Truth About Buck Shelford & WILD Fight In Argentina
Episode Description
Frano Botica is one of the rare few to have represented New Zealand in both rugby union and rugby league — and he’s done it all: All Blacks, Kiwis, the Warriors, Wigan, and more.
In this open and funny chat, Frano reflects on the highs and lows of his remarkable dual-code career — from kicking match-winners at Eden Park to breaking his leg and losing a pro contract (the same weekend), to his love of Wigan despite calling it a “s***hole.”
Topics include: – Switching from All Blacks to Kiwis – Warriors debut season and career-ending injury – The struggle after retirement and starting over – Grandkids, legacy, and softening with age – The jersey he refuses to give away (hint: it's black)
A true New Zealand sports legend!
Brief Summary
Frano Botica discusses his rugby career, health challenges, and family life after retirement.
Key points
- Life After Rugby. Transitioning from a sports career to real estate and personal challenges.
- Health Challenges. A candid discussion about health issues and lifestyle changes after a stroke.
- The Amateur Era. Reflecting on the challenges and experiences of being an All Black during the amateur era.
- Making the All Blacks. The moment of being selected for the All Blacks was a mix of excitement and uncertainty.
- Rugby Drinking Culture. The drinking culture among rugby players in the '90s was intense and memorable.
- World Cup Reflections. Despite not playing, the speaker feels a part of the winning team.
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Episode highlights
- Life After RugbyTransitioning from a sports career to real estate and personal challenges.“I can’t imagine that transition part’s easy.”2:53Oct 11, 2025
- Health ChallengesA candid discussion about health issues and lifestyle changes after a stroke.“It was terrifying to start with.”8:29Oct 11, 2025
- The Amateur EraReflecting on the challenges and experiences of being an All Black during the amateur era.“It’s just a completely different time.”28:38Oct 11, 2025
- Making the All BlacksThe moment of being selected for the All Blacks was a mix of excitement and uncertainty.“I knew I had a shot because all the Cavaliers had gone.”30:15Oct 11, 2025
- Rugby Drinking CultureThe drinking culture among rugby players in the '90s was intense and memorable.“The '90s all the way.”38:59Oct 11, 2025
- World Cup ReflectionsDespite not playing, the speaker feels a part of the winning team.“I definitely feel like a World Cup winner.”46:54Oct 11, 2025
- A Scary Rugby ExperienceA match in Argentina turned into a chaotic fight, leaving players fearing for their safety.“Thank God the cops were in there.”56:55Oct 11, 2025
- Switching CodesThe ease of switching sports has changed over the years, reflecting on past controversies.“You can bounce from one to the other without any problems.”1:05:41Oct 11, 2025
