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Meet the England rugby star training to become a plastic surgeon while playing for his country
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England rugby stars are used to operating under pressure, but one member of Steve Borthwick's squad could one day be doing it for real.

Immanuel Feyi-Waboso has made his name tearing through defences for England and Exeter Chiefs.

But away from the pitch, the 23-year-old winger is pursuing a very different ambition.

He's studying medicine at the University of Exeter and has previously revealed his dream of becoming a plastic surgeon.

Remarkably, he's been balancing his studies with the demands of international rugby.

Immanuel Feyi-Waboso's dream of becoming a surgeon

Medicine runs in the Feyi-Waboso family.

His father is an ophthalmologist, specialising in eye care, while his brother Joshua has followed him into the profession.

His grandfather was also a gynaecologist in Nigeria.

Speaking about his family's influence, the England international told The Rugby Journal: "My dad's a doctor, so that must be subconsciously my influence."

However, Feyi-Waboso has his sights set on a different speciality.

Discussing his interest in plastic surgery, he explained: "But it's more like working with burns, cleft lips, stuff like that."

He added: "I also think there's something quite artistic about it."

The winger admitted his plans could change once he gains more experience working on hospital wards.

But one ambition is already clear.

"And then in life, well I do want to become a doctor," he said.

Three A*s and a university rejection

Feyi-Waboso's journey into medicine hasn't been straightforward.

Despite achieving three A*s at A-level, the Cardiff-born youngster was unsuccessful in his application to study medicine at Cardiff University.

He instead joined Wasps while studying at Aston University.

When Wasps collapsed in 2022, Exeter Chiefs offered him a fresh start.

The move allowed him to continue his medical education at the University of Exeter while pursuing professional rugby.

Missing England training for medical exams

During the 2024 Six Nations, Feyi-Waboso even missed part of an England training camp to sit medical exams.

He subsequently passed his first-year assessments while enjoying a breakthrough international season.

The winger made his England debut against Italy in February 2024, having previously represented Wales at Under-18 level.

His explosive pace and finishing ability quickly established him as one of Steve Borthwick's most exciting attacking talents.

For now, rugby remains his profession.

But when his playing days eventually end, Feyi-Waboso could swap the try line for the operating theatre.

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