The rugby league community is in mourning following the passing of Fijian international and former Canterbury Bulldogs junior Mesake ‘Mes’ Ravonu.
A talented young kid who was also dedicated and humble, Ravonu has passed away at the age of 22 after losing his battle to kidney disease.
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Forced to retire in 2024, Ravonu was previously a member of the Bulldogs system and was destined for a bright future, which saw him represent Fiji Bati on the international stage at the 2023 Pacific Championships.
“We are deeply saddened to share the passing of our long-term client and friend, Mesake ‘Mes’ Ravonu, who lost his battle with kidney disease on January 19, 2026, at age 22,” a statement from his management said.
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Mesake Ravonu is being mourned by the rugby league community. Picture: BulldogsSource: Supplied
“Mes was not only an exceptional athlete – a member of the 2023 Jersey Flegg premiership squad with the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs and making his test debut in the 2023 Pacific Championship with the Fiji Bati – but his career was cut short when he was forced to medically retire in 2024 following his chronic kidney disease diagnosis.
“Most importantly, Mes was an amazing human being who became a valued son and brother to our Director George Christodoulou’s family, having lived in their family home during his time in Sydney.
“Mes embodied the spirit of a Fijian warrior overcoming numerous challenges and adversity throughout his short life, but never losing his infectious smile.
“We are devastated by his loss, but also grateful for his presence in our lives. We were enriched for having had him as part of our journey.
“Gone too soon but never forgotten. May you now rest in eternal peace, Mes.”
The Bulldogs also released a statement.
“The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs are deeply saddened by the passing of former Jersey Flegg player Mesake ‘Mes’ Ravonu.
“Born in Buretu, Tailevu, Fiji, to parents Maria and Inoke, Mesake was the youngest of five children.
“He showed exceptional athletic promise from an early age and went on to feature in the Fijian National U18 Schoolboys and U20 Rugby Union squads.
“Mesake became a Bulldog ahead of the 2022 season when he joined the Jersey Flegg team. His first season was cut short by two serious injuries, but his resilience and determination were rewarded the following year when he was selected in the Fiji Bati squad for the Pacific Championships — a proud moment for his family.
“In 2024, ‘Mes’ moved into the Bulldogs’ NSW Cup squad. However, he was forced into premature medical retirement after it was discovered he had been living with IgA Nephropathy – an auto-immune kidney disease.
“Mesake returned home to Fiji in 2024 after his diagnosis. He spent his final days surrounded by family in Malawai, Nadi, before passing on Monday.
“The Bulldogs family will forever remember Mesake’s determination, infectious smile and the joy he brought to everyone around him.
“The Bulldogs wish to pay their respects to Mesake. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”