Former England rugby captain Lewis Moody — one of the heroes of England’s 2003 Rugby World Cup triumph — has revealed he’s been diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND). The 47-year-old, affectionately nicknamed Mad Dog for his fearless play, joins fellow rugby legends Rob Burrow and Doddie Weir in facing the devastating condition.
Speaking to the BBC, Moody shared the heartbreaking news just weeks after receiving his diagnosis. “It’s something I’m still processing,” he said. “I know where it leads, but for now, I’m focused on my family, my health, and living each day fully.”
Despite the emotional toll, Moody remains optimistic. He described feeling physically strong, with only minor muscle weakness in his shoulder and hand. “It’s strange — I don’t feel ill. I can still do everything, and I hope that continues as long as possible,” he said.
Family, Faith, and Fighting Spirit
The former Leicester Tigers star grew emotional recalling the moment he told his wife, Annie, and sons, Ethan and Dylan. “It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” he admitted. “We sat together in tears — even the dog jumped up to lick our faces.”
MND is a progressive neurological condition that affects nerves in the brain and spinal cord. It can cause muscle weakness, slurred speech, and difficulty breathing. There’s currently no cure, though treatments can slow progression.
Still, Moody’s courage mirrors his on-field grit. Known for his relentless energy and leadership, he played a key role in England’s historic World Cup win, famously securing the lineout that set up Jonny Wilkinson’s match-winning drop goal.
Global Support and Awareness
Rugby communities across the world have rallied behind Moody. The Rugby Football Union (RFU) praised his “fearless spirit,” with CEO Bill Sweeney calling him “one of the toughest and most admired players in rugby history.”
Moody and his wife plan to expand their Lewis Moody Foundation — previously focused on brain tumour support — to raise awareness for MND research and patient care.
“I’ve lived an incredible life,” Moody reflected. “If it ended now, I’d still be grateful for every moment — the game, the people, the memories. That’s what matters.”
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