England Prop Embraces Rugby’s Physical Edge in a “Soft Society”
England prop and stand-in captain Ellis Genge has called on rugby players and fans to embrace the sport’s aggression and intensity, saying that its raw physical confrontations are central to rugby’s enduring appeal — especially at a time when “society has gone quite soft.”
The 30-year-old, who will captain England against Fiji at Twickenham in the Quilter Nations Series on Saturday, believes rugby’s unique mix of physicality, confrontation, and respect is what makes it stand out in modern sport.
Speaking on the Rugby Union Weekly podcast, Genge reflected on the late-game tussle in England’s 25–7 victory over Australia last weekend, which saw tempers flare among several players.
“It was just a bit of a squabbling,” Genge explained. “We can’t whack anyone anymore, so yeah, just a bit of argy-bargy. I enjoy the animosity of rugby. I enjoy that we’re an abrasive sport. I think we should relish it as opposed to shy away from it. Society nowadays probably enjoys coming to watch us play because I feel that society’s gone quite soft if I’m being honest.”
“Rugby Needs Its Edge” — Genge Calls for Authenticity in the Modern Game
Genge’s comments echo a growing sentiment among rugby professionals who worry that rule changes and safety reforms may be softening the sport’s defining characteristics.
The Premiership Rugby rebrand this season has leaned heavily on the league’s reputation for big hits, emotion, and aggression, something Genge says must be celebrated rather than sanitized.
The Leicester-born front-rower has often worn his passion on his sleeve — and even on his boots, which have previously featured images of boxing legends Mike Tyson and Muhammad Ali, symbolizing his respect for toughness and competition.
“We’re a collision sport. That’s what makes rugby what it is,” Genge said. “It’s about controlled aggression, emotion, and respect. That balance is what people come to see.”
Balancing Family Life and International Rugby Commitments
Away from the pitch, Genge admits that the emotional toll of international rugby has become one of the toughest challenges in his career.
After spending six weeks on tour with the British & Irish Lions, the father of three confessed he struggles with the constant travel and separation from his young family.
“It’s been good, but I’d be lying if I said I haven’t struggled,” he admitted. “It’s quite daunting really. I don’t like leaving them at home anymore.”
Genge revealed he recently spoke to fellow England prop Joe Marler, who famously retired from international rugby at 28 to focus on family life before later returning.
“I said to Joe, ‘I actually understand why you packed it in a few times,’ because it’s difficult — packing up and leaving over and over again. But if I’m here, I’m all in. You’ve got to be unapologetically committed.”
Third Time Leading England: Genge’s Leadership Evolution
Saturday’s test against Fiji marks Genge’s third time captaining England, filling in for regular skipper Maro Itoje, who starts from the bench.
His first two games as captain came in challenging circumstances: a 53–10 defeat to France at Twickenham in the 2023 Six Nations, and a 20–9 loss to Wales in a 2024 World Cup warm-up match.
“Yeah, record-breaker,” Genge joked when asked about his previous captaincy record. “But the moments we had in those horrible times, like the defeat by France, actually helped us grow. Those were tough lessons that made us better.”
A Leader of Emotion and Action, Not Tactics
Genge, known for his fiery speeches and passionate on-field demeanor, says his leadership style is rooted in emotion, physical presence, and authenticity, rather than technical game plans.
“I’m not much of a tactician,” he admitted. “You wouldn’t ask monkeys to swim and fish to climb trees. I’m good at the emotional and physical side of the game, so I stick to that.”
England head coach Steve Borthwick praised Genge’s natural leadership, describing him as a player who can inspire with presence alone.
“Ellis has an unbelievable ability to give a message worth a thousand words with just a facial expression,” said Borthwick. “He’s a proud man, a fantastic bloke, brilliant rugby player, and an outstanding leader. He’s exactly the kind of guy you’d want leading you out.”
England vs Fiji: A Test of Power and Discipline
England will face Fiji at Twickenham’s Allianz Stadium on Saturday, 8 November, with kick-off scheduled for 17:40 GMT.
The match is part of the Quilter Nations Series, broadcast live on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra and via text updates on the BBC Sport app and website.
With Genge leading the squad and Itoje on the bench, fans are eager to see whether England can continue building momentum following their dominant win over Australia.
Ellis Genge’s Message: Keep Rugby Real
In an age where many contact sports face scrutiny for safety concerns and disciplinary standards, Ellis Genge’s call to “relish animosity” reflects a deep belief that rugby’s appeal lies in its honesty, aggression, and respect.
His words capture a tension at the heart of modern rugby: how to preserve the spirit of combat that defines the game, while ensuring it remains safe, inclusive, and sustainable for future generations.
“We’ve got to be proud of what makes rugby different,” Genge concluded. “It’s not about being reckless — it’s about being passionate, being physical, and respecting the fight.”
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