Zac Guildford

Former All Black sentenced for punching woman in the face in 'appalling act'

The incident, described as savage and appalling, happened in 2019, in a car, when Guildford was extremely intoxicated.

“The brutality and considerable force behind the blow is illustrated by the nature of the injuries caused to the victim,” Justice Paul Davison QC wrote in a decision released after an appeal in the High Court at Hamilton.

“It was clearly serious offending, and the fact that it took place in the context of the appellant being severely intoxicated by alcohol is no excuse whatsoever.”

Former All Black Zac Guildford admits he contemplated suicide

Guildford's journey back to professional rugby has taken another step forward being signed to play for Waikato in this season's Mitre 10 provincial cup competition.

RNZI reports alcohol and off-field problems have plagued Guildford's career, culminating with the New South Wales Waratahs terminating his Super rugby contract last year.

He's also played for the Hurricanes, the Crusaders and the French club Clermont, where there were also problems during his stints there.