Neil Ruddock Opens Up About Overcoming Health Struggles and ‘Razor’ Persona

Neil “Razor” Ruddock, the former professional footballer known for his larger-than-life personality both on and off the pitch, has candidly discussed the drastic lifestyle changes he has made to combat health issues. In a recent interview, Ruddock, aged 56, reflected on how his infamous ‘Razor’ persona almost led to serious health repercussions.

Ruddock enjoyed a prominent football career from 1986 to 2002, featuring for clubs such as Tottenham Hotspur, Southampton, West Ham, and Liverpool, making over 460 club appearances and scoring 42 goals. Despite a promising career, his off-field lifestyle, characterized by heavy drinking and unhealthy eating habits, limited his potential. The ‘Razor’ nickname, which played up his wild persona, became part of his identity.

In recent years, as he revealed in an interview with The Telegraph, his health deteriorated to alarming levels, notably reaching nearly 30 stone during the COVID-19 pandemic. “I had to save my own life, really. Stop being that bloke or I’d be dead. Simple as that,” Ruddock stated, adding that his health issues rendered basic journeys challenging. One instance included having to take a taxi for a short uphill distance due to mobility issues.

Ruddock’s turning point came through his participation in the reality television series ‘Harry’s Heroes’, which reunited him with former football colleagues under the coaching of Harry Redknapp. A confrontation with fellow ex-player Paul Merson, captured on the show, highlighted the severity of his lifestyle choices. Attempting to prove Merson wrong, Ruddock joined training the following day, only to collapse, which led to a hospital visit. “I was feeling low and went off on one. At the time I thought I was right. How wrong I was,” Ruddock recalled.

Motivated by the experience and the risk to his health, Ruddock opted for a surgical intervention and a lifestyle overhaul. He underwent gastric band surgery, subsequently shedding over ten stone. Embracing his new lifestyle, Ruddock now prioritizes family and health, enjoying cooking and maintaining a balanced routine. “It’s not like I’m a split personality. I don’t worry if people call me Razor still. But I know I just can’t be him anymore,” he explained.

Ruddock has documented his experience in his memoir ‘Toxic‘, where he details his journey from the depths of despair to a healthier outlook on life. This transformation is characterized by his focus on family over past vices, a story of redemption from the excesses that once defined him.

While Ruddock appears healthier and more content, he expressed his uncertainty about fitting into today’s football world, noting his frustration with aspects such as VAR. “I can’t remember when I last watched a game all the way through,” he admitted, laughing at the complexities of modern football compared to his playing days.