Sonny Bill Williams 'stopped' in charity boxing bout by reality TV star Stu Laundy

Former rugby union star turned boxer Sonny Bill Williams made his return to the ring against Bachelorette winner Stu Laundy in a four-round charity bout.

In a weekend filled with blockbuster boxing bouts, Williams' clash against the millionaire pub owner was gentle to say the least in comparison to the clash between Jeff Horn and Anthony Mundine.

However, there were a few actual punches thrown, as well as a rugby-style tackle attempted, as the duo faced off to raise money for homeless charities, the Exodus Foundation and the Auckland City Mission.

Eventually, the former All-Black was 'counted out' by the referee as both fighters were declared joint winners, and he praised Laundy for making the event a possibility.

"Firstly, I just want to commend Stu and everyone here for making this great night possible," Williams said.

"We raised some good money for the serious cause that it was."

Laundy was also full of praise for Williams, calling him a "lifelong friend".

"Sonny, you're a lifelong friend, thank you," he said.

"A couple of those punches really hit me. I hid it pretty well but they got me."