The man who alleges he was punched by Blues player and former All Black Rene Ranger has told a court he's not stupid enough to take on someone who's twice his size.

Ranger, 25, faces two charges of injuring with intent following an incident in August 2009 where a man was left unconscious outside the Mangawhai Tavern.

He is on trial in Whangarei District Court.

The complainant, Jason Dick, gave evidence on Monday via a video link from the NSW city of Newcastle.

Mr Dick told the court he was outside the pub waiting for a ride back to his father's house and "fooling around" with his brother.

He said the next thing he remembered was "spitting my teeth out", APNZ reports.

His lip was cut open and there was blood everywhere, Mr Dick said.

Ranger's lawyer Arthur Fairley told the court Ranger went to the pub after playing a game of rugby with some friends.

He said Ranger was shoved from behind by Mr Dick and Ranger reacted by pushing him to the ground, but did not punch him.

Mr Fairley asked Mr Dick if he was drunk and went up to Ranger and tackled him.

"Why would I want to tackle someone twice my size?" Mr Dick said.

"I'm telling you that I didn't do that. He's twice my size man ... I'm not that stupid."