Born in Mdantsane (between East London & King Williams Town), Makazole Mapimpi did not attend one of the traditional rugby schools of the Eastern Cape. He did not feature as a schoolboy provincial representative, but he persevered and formed part of the 2009 Border Bulldogs U19 Currie Cup squad. It was only in 2014 that he featured for the province again, turning out in the Vodacom Cup and the Currie Cup 1^st Division. A few steady years culminated in a very impressive 2016 campaign, making Mapimpi a prime candidate for Super Rugby selection.

His 2017 performances for the Southern Kings were nothing short of outstanding, solidifying his place as one of the best finishers in the country.