Viliame 'Bill' Mata has signed a contract extension at the Bears as the club pursue silverware
18:00, 15 Jan 2026
Bristol Bears have announced that one of the game’s most destructive forces, Fijian international number eight Viliame Mata, has signed a contract extension with the club.
The powerhouse 34-year-old has made 28 appearances for the Bears since arriving at the club from Edinburgh in 2024, bringing his devastating power and physicality on both sides of the ball to the Gallagher PREM.
The 6ft 4in back row, who has earned 38 caps for Fiji, has scored 11 tries in two seasons for Pat Lam’s side, including a first-half double in December’s Investec Champions Cup victory over Scarlets.
Bristol director of rugby, Lam, said: “I’m delighted that Bill has extended his stay with the Bears. He has delivered exactly what we were looking for. In his first season we returned to the top four, and this year we are firmly on track to compete for silverware.
“Bill is one of the most destructive, skilful ball carriers and defenders in world rugby, and he sets the physical tone for us every time he pulls on the shirt. His power and ball-carrying ability are central to how we want to play - he consistently provides front-foot ball, generates momentum, and draws multiple defenders with his offload threat, creating space and opportunities for those around him.
“While Bill is rightly known for his big moments, what we value most is his selflessness and team-first mentality. That’s reflected in his unseen work, and the attention to detail he puts into the set-piece and the hard graft up front.”
Mata added: “I’m very happy to extend my time here at Bristol Bears. From the moment I arrived, I felt the belief from the coaches, the players and the supporters.
“This club has big ambitions, and I want to be part of achieving something special. Playing in front of the Bears fans at Ashton Gate is something I really enjoy, and I’m looking forward to what’s ahead.”