Brian Lima resigns from rugby after assault allegations

Brian Lima.

Manu Samoa rugby legend Brian Lima has resigned from all forms of rugby in the island nation following allegations of an assault on his ex-wife.

Lima, the defence coach for the Samoan rugby team, handed in a letter of resignation last month, the Samoa Observer reported today.

His former wife, Lemalu Sina Retzlaff, last month spoke out about the alleged assault and appeared in the local newspaper sporting a battered face and bloodshot eyes.

The pair have three sons together.

Lima has been charged with causing actual bodily harm and being armed with a dangerous weapon. He is due in court next week.

Lemalu Sina Retzlaff spoke out about the alleged assault last month. Photo / Samoa Observer

Chairman of the Samoa Rugby Union Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi told local media that Lima had quit from all active roles and had apologised to the union.

Mr Tuilaepa said it was a time for Lima "to solve issues in their family".

Lima is widely known throughout international rugby, having been the only player to play in five Rugby World Cup tournaments.

He is also nick-named "the chiropractor" because of his bone-crunching tackling style.

Last November, he led the Manu Samoa team's Siva Tau against Ireland in an emotional tribute to the late Peter Fatialofa, a former team-mate.