Andrew Sheridan, a towering figure in English rugby, earned 40 caps between 2004 and 2011 and is widely regarded as one of the strongest players to have ever worn the England shirt.
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Renowned for his extraordinary physical strength, Sheridan was as much a powerhouse in the gym as he was on the field. His near-elite powerlifting feats are legendary, boasting a bench press of 225 kilograms (496 lbs) and a squat of 275 kilograms (606 lbs).
Sheridan retired from rugby in September 2014, forced to hang up his boots due to a series of neck injuries.
Away from rugby, Sheridan’s talents extended to music. In 2010, he released an acoustic rock album titled “Where We Go From Here,” showcasing his skills on the guitar alongside piano, drums, and vocals. The album was recorded at Cotyso Studios, a project sparked by his wife’s initiative.
Sheridan now lives in France’s Var region and owns an independent wine store.
Shoppers can pop in to buy bottles and get advice in fluent French from the man who was once able to bench-press 35st.
As we celebrate Sheridan’s legacy, we also turn our attention to England’s current crop of powerhouse players. Joe Marler, in particular, has recently caught the eye with his impressive feats of strength.
Explore our full list of England’s modern-day rugby strongmen below.
BENCH-PRESS RECORD:
Genge, the formidable English rugby prop, is recognized for his explosive power and unwavering tenacity on the pitch. With a dynamic playing style and fierce competitiveness, he stands as a crucial asset for both his club and the national team.
Sinckler, the talented English prop, combines agility and strength to dominate the scrum. Renowned for his fiery passion, he’s a key figure for England and Bristol Bears, consistently making an impact.
Itoje, the English lock, is a true rugby visionary. With his athleticism, leadership, and incredible work ethic, he’s become a linchpin for Saracens and the England national team, consistently excelling on the field.
Tuilagi, the Samoan-born English center, is a force of nature on the rugby field. His powerful runs, bone-crushing tackles, and explosive speed have established him as a game-changer for Sale Sharks and England, earning him a fearsome reputation.
#1. Joe Marler (Prop) – 210kg
In the rugby world, Joe Marler is an undeniable force to be reckoned with. Renowned for his unwavering tenacity and expertise in the scrum, he stands as a stalwart figure in the English and Harlequins lineup.
With a career steeped in resilience and dedication, Marler’s contributions to the sport are nothing short of invaluable. His recent feats in England training sessions speak volumes about his sheer strength and determination. Boasting a record benchpress of 210kg and an impressive squat of 230kg, Marler proves time and again why he’s a force to be feared on the field.
With a personal net worth of £41.8m, a referee emerges as rugby’s richest star
The rugby world isn’t just about breathtaking tries and fierce tackles; it’s also a realm where fortunes are made. Here’s the lowdown on the top 10 wealthiest rugby players right now:
Credit: The South African for the original data
10. Owen Farrell – £1.46 million ($2 million)
Saracens are making waves in the Premiership, and Owen Farrell, their skipper, is reaping the rewards. The bulk of his net worth, a cool £1.46 million, flows directly from his dedication to Saracens.
9. Maro Itoje – £1.46 million ($2 million)
Teammate to Farrell both at England and Saracens, Maro Itoje is on a trajectory to become one of rugby’s highest earners. His salary, comparable to the national skipper’s, showcases his potential.