Former New Zealand All Blacks Give Jonah Lomu One Last Emotional Haka as Proper Send-Off

One of the greatest rugby players to ever grace the pitch died less than two weeks ago, November 18, at only the age of 40. Jonah Lomu, a fantastic former player of the New Zealand All Blacks national rugby union team, was a beloved man from New Zealand, specifically Aukland. His funeral was yesterday, and during a private ceremony at Eden Park, the All Blacks gave him one last emotional haka as the most proper of send-offs.

For those who don't know, a haka is a traditional war cry, dance or challenge of the Maori people -- the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand -- and the All Blacks (as well as other non-national or non-rugby teams) perform before each game. It's famous for its intimidation factor, and also because the All Blacks are the most dominant rugby team in the history of the sport.

Below, there is an example of the haka done by the current All Blacks team, so you can see how it looks on the field, and below that is the very special one performed by Lomu's former teammates at the ceremony.

Truly, it was a remarkable way to honor the passing of such a legendary athlete who will be remembered by many all over the world.

Lomu had to retire early after an impactful, but rather short, career due to a rare kidney condition called nephrotic syndrome. He needed a transplant because of it and had been on dialysis for the last 10 years. However, it was a heart attack that ended the great player, husband and father's life.

"We're all shocked and deeply saddened at the sudden death of Jonah Lomu," New Zealand Rugby chief executive Steve Tew said via The Guardian. "Jonah was a legend of our game and loved by his many fans both here and around the world. We're lost for words and our heartfelt sympathies go out to Jonah's family."

Such a well respected man and athlete didn't deserve to go so early, and he will be missed.