From the sublime to the ridiculous, the world of rugby has provided us with two clips that have been keeping our eyes glued to the screen.

First up is a look back at some of the finest moments of the Japanese National Rugby Team during play in this year’s Rugby World Cup. Although the Brave Blossoms didn’t make it past group play stage, they put on a performance that caught the world’s eyes, and may even be inspiring a new generation of Japanese rugby players.

Have a look at the clip, provided by Rugby World Cup, to catch a glimpse of the power, athleticism, and grace of the squad, and not much doubt should remain in your mind as to why Eddie Jones’s side quickly became fan favorites after surprising South Africa in their opening game.

Japan: Best Bits

BEST BITS: Japan won the hearts of many fans around the globe during their RWC 2015 campaign, so re-live some of their best moments at the tournament

Posted by Rugby World Cup on Wednesday, October 14, 2015

And then, on the other hand, we have Boris Johnson. The Mayor of London has been known to make a gaffe or two, but on his recent three-day visit to Tokyo, he hadn’t done much to draw significant attention to himself. Yesterday, however, was another story.

During a friendly game of street rugby with some adults and children, Johnson leveled 10-year-old Toki Sekiguchi as he enthusiastically went for a try. Sekiguchi said that he “felt a little bit of pain but it’s OK.”

Given the already heavy news coverage devoted to his charge, Johnson may have gotten the worst of the exchange.

–Alec Jordan

Image: Reuters, via RT.com