A former England World Cup-winning rugby star has shown off his incredible body transformation after taking up bodybuilding.
The star, now 50, was part of England’s legendary squad that won the tournament under Sir Clive Woodward in 2003, featuring in all seven games of their campaign.
The 50-year-old was forced to retire through injury in 2010 and has been involved in a variety of ventures since then, including coaching, media, activism about player welfare, and now a new sport.
Taking to social media, the star revealed he took part in a bodybuilding competition in Hull and shared pictures of his physique.
He explained that the hard work required, along with the camaraderie of competing with others, had been extremely positive for his mental health.
But, can you guess who it is?
An England World Cup winner has showed off his astonishing body transformation
The star in question is former England prop Phil Vickery.
After sharing a photo of his ripped physique on Instagram, Vickery said: ‘So team it’s been just over a week and I have recovered enough now to show a couple of pictures of my body building competition I took part in for the Physical Culture Association in Hull.
‘I get asked all the time why, what for, what’s the point of it, how much money do you get if you win, and on and on.
‘First and foremost the gym and lifting weights has helped me physically but mentally more than anything. I love the discipline, the challenge, the atmosphere, the camaraderie and the simple fact it’s f***ing hard work and you can’t fake your way onto stage and you can’t hide behind anyone or anything.
‘Your physique is the reflection of your work. It’s not about anyone else for me it’s just you being the best version of you and being better than last time.’
After the inspiring words, Vickery shared heartfelt thanks to his coach Dave Campbell who he described as a ‘friend’ and ‘mentor’, adding he ‘will always be grateful for those little big things’.
Vickery was showered in compliments in the replies to his post, including one from Campbell.
He wrote: ‘It was my pleasure to see your journey from where you were to how good you looked, considering the injuries and setbacks we had to overcome. All in all, you did incredible. Well done mate.’
His former England team-mate Matt Dawson added: ‘Bl***y hell mate. No wonder that was so tough. Fair play you colossus…’
England’s official account also posted a supportive comment as they said: ‘Fancy a game?’
Vickery pictured after the crowning moment of his career with England 23 years ago
Vickery’s achievement was all the more inspiring given the personal struggles he has faced since retirement.
In August, Vickery revealed he has issues with his memory after being diagnosed with ‘probable’ chronic traumatic encephalopathy, a brain disease that is usually caused by repeated head impacts.
‘The sport’s f***ing amazing,’ he told The Observer: ‘Rugby’s an amazing sport. You know, the sad reality is I sit here today: would I do it all again? Oh my God, I would. I’m f***ing mental, but I would because it’s amazing.
‘I also sit here knowing there are lots of people out there, I believe, who are suffering because of the sport. And it’s not about blaming the sport and about getting all nasty and horrible.
‘Let’s just f***ing help people. There are people suffering, so let’s help them.’
