ENGLAND rugby legend Phil Vickery has left fans stunned after showing off his incredible physique in a bodybuilding competition.
The 50-year-old former England prop looked barely-recognisable as he flexed his muscles on stage after competing in an event organised by the PCA in Hull.
Vickery shared three pictures from the competition on Instagram, showing off his ripped physique in a series of poses.
The first snap saw the former rugby hardman displaying his muscular frame from the front.
Two more pictures showed off his impressive back muscles as he turned around to reveal the results of his gruelling training regime.
And the man nicknamed the ‘Raging Bull’ was quick to explain why he had taken on the challenge.
Vickery wrote: “So team it’s been just over a week and have recovered enough now to show a couple of pictures of my body building competition I took part in for the @pca_official 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 simple fact it’s f***ing hard work and you can’t fake your way onto stage you can’t hide behind anyone or anything.. you’re 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.
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“One person who deserves a special mention from me is @davecampbell_purefitness who without his support guidance and fountain of knowledge it just wouldn’t be possible.
“He’s not just a coach he’s a friend a mentor that person who invests his time constantly looking for new ways.. listening to me and keeping me going when it’s the bad day.. a true craftsman and someone who is so passionate about the sport.
“Thank you Dave we did it together brother and I will always be grateful for those #littlebigthings.”
Vickery’s remarkable transformation caught the attention of some familiar faces, with several star-studded names rushing to share their thoughts in the comments.
Former England team-mate Matt Dawson was among those left impressed, writing: “Bloody hell mate. No wonder that was so tough. Fair play you colossus….🙌.”
Renowned farrier and social media sensation Sam Wolfenden also congratulated the ex-rugby star, posting: “Well done mate smashed it come in sharp 👏.”
Australian snooker ace Neil Robertson praised the discipline behind Vickery’s latest challenge, commenting: “Awesome stuff mate. Nothing healthier for the mind than a goal with discipline 🙌.”
Another former England rugby star James Haskell kept his reaction short and sweet, leaving four fire emojis.
Vickery, who won 73 caps for England, was part of the team that lifted the Rugby World Cup in 2003, featuring in all seven matches as England conquered the world.
The tighthead prop captained England at the 2007 Rugby World Cup and toured with the British and Irish Lions in Australia and South Africa.
