Former England rugby captain Lewis Moody has confirmed he has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND), also known as ALS, at the age of 47. The World Cup winner, nicknamed “Mad Dog” for his fearless approach on the pitch, shared the news through a heartfelt social media statement.

Moody admitted the diagnosis came as a “huge shock” to both him and his family, but he remains focused on staying positive, living in the moment, and preparing for the challenges ahead.

How Did Lewis Moody Discover His Condition?

Moody revealed that he began noticing unusual weakness in his shoulder while training in the gym. Physiotherapy didn’t resolve the problem, and further scans revealed nerve damage caused by MND.

Speaking on BBC Breakfast, he explained:

“You’re given this diagnosis of MND and we’re rightly emotional about it, but it’s so strange because I feel like nothing’s wrong. My symptoms are very minor. I still feel capable of doing anything and everything.”

The Human Side: Family First

For Moody, one of the most painful aspects has been sharing the diagnosis with his family. The former flanker and his wife Annie broke the news to their sons Dylan, 17, and Ethan, 15, describing it as “the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do.”

He admitted the emotional toll has been heavier on loved ones:

“It’s never me that I feel sad for. It’s the sadness of telling my mum, my boys, and thinking about what it means for them.”

Even in tears, the Moody family found moments of comfort, including their dog climbing onto the couch and “licking the tears off their faces.”

How Dangerous is MND?

MND is a progressive and incurable condition that attacks the brain and spinal cord. The MND Association notes that one-third of patients die within a year of diagnosis, and more than half within two years, though some live longer with treatment and care.

Elite athletes, like Moody, Rob Burrow, and the late Doddie Weir, have been disproportionately affected. Research suggests intense physical activity may accelerate the disease in genetically predisposed individuals.

The Rugby Community Rallies Around Moody

Moody joins a heartbreaking list of rugby greats struck by MND. Following Burrow’s passing in 2024 and Ed Slater’s ongoing battle, the diagnosis has reignited concerns over the link between high-impact sports and neurodegenerative diseases.

England skills coach Kevin Sinfield, who led high-profile fundraising for Burrow, is expected to be among those supporting Moody. The rugby community has already expressed solidarity, with fans, ex-teammates, and organizations pledging support online.

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What Comes Next for Lewis Moody?

Despite the prognosis, Moody remains determined to live fully. Through the Lewis Moody Foundation, which has raised millions for brain tumour support, he now hopes to extend his efforts toward MND awareness and fundraising.

In a statement via Sky News, he said:

“I will continue to embrace life and grasp opportunities in the same way I always have. My plan is to keep fundraising and to create opportunities to support charities closer to my current situation.”

Moody emphasized the importance of space and privacy for his family as they navigate the early stages of his diagnosis.

Sharing some news ❤️ pic.twitter.com/9YIMucQh6l

— Lewis Moody (@LewisMoody7) October 6, 2025

A Legacy of Courage and Relentless Spirit

Lewis Moody’s career is legendary: 71 England caps, a Rugby World Cup triumph, seven Premiership titles with Leicester Tigers, and a British and Irish Lions tour. His diagnosis adds another chapter to his story, one that will test his resilience but may also inspire millions worldwide.

As he summed up:

“I’ve had an incredible life. Even if it ended now, I’ve embraced it all with unbelievable people. That’s the greatest privilege.”

FAQ

Q1: What illness has Lewis Moody been diagnosed with?

A: Former England rugby captain Lewis Moody has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND), also known as ALS. It is a progressive and incurable condition that affects the brain and spinal cord.

Q2: How did Lewis Moody discover he had MND?

A: Moody noticed weakness in his shoulder during training. After physiotherapy failed, further scans confirmed nerve damage consistent with MND.

Q3: What symptoms does Lewis Moody currently have?

A: He reports only minor symptoms, including muscle wasting in his shoulder and hand, but says he otherwise feels healthy and capable.

Q4: How is his family coping with the diagnosis?

A: Moody described telling his wife and two sons, Dylan and Ethan, as the “hardest thing” he has ever done. He said the emotional impact has been toughest on them.

Q5: How does MND affect life expectancy?

A: According to the MND Association, one-third of patients die within a year, and more than half within two years of diagnosis. Treatment can slow, but not stop, progression.

Q6: Are athletes more likely to develop MND?

A: Studies suggest that elite athletes, particularly in high-impact sports, face a higher risk of MND due to repetitive strain, oxygen restriction, and possible genetic vulnerability.

Q7: Which rugby players have battled MND?

A: Notable players include Doddie Weir, who died in 2022, and Rob Burrow, who passed away in 2024. Ex-Leicester star Ed Slater is also living with the condition.

Q8: How has the rugby community responded to Moody’s news?

A: Fans, teammates, and coaches, including Kevin Sinfield, have shown strong public support, with fundraising efforts expected to follow.

Q9: What will happen to the Lewis Moody Foundation?

A: The foundation, previously focused on brain tumour support, will expand to include MND awareness and fundraising initiatives.

Q10: What legacy does Lewis Moody leave in rugby?

A: Known as “Mad Dog”, Moody won the 2003 Rugby World Cup, 71 caps, seven Premiership titles, and a British and Irish Lions call-up, cementing him as one of England’s most fearless players.