Immanuel Feyi-Waboso: The Rising Rugby Star Balancing Medicine and Sports
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso is a name that’s gaining recognition in both the world of rugby and academia. A professional rugby union player for Exeter Chiefs and England, Feyi-Waboso has quickly made a name for himself as one of the promising talents in the sport. Born in Cardiff, Wales, on December 20, 2002, Feyi-Waboso has shown immense dedication and skill on the rugby field while simultaneously pursuing a medical degree. This article will delve into his background, rugby career, educational journey, and personal life.
Early Life and Background
Birth and Heritage
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso was born in Cardiff, United Kingdom, on December 20, 2002. Although his birthplace ties him to Wales, he represents England at the international rugby level, thanks to his English paternal heritage. He is one of six siblings, growing up in a multicultural household with Nigerian, English, and Jamaican roots, which shaped his unique identity. This diverse background has played an important role in molding his character both on and off the rugby field.
Education: A Journey in Medicine and Academics
Feyi-Waboso’s academic journey reflects his commitment to excelling in both sports and education. He attended Corpus Christi Catholic High School in Cardiff, where he excelled academically. From there, he moved on to Clifton College, a renowned school known for its rich academic history. After completing his secondary education, Feyi-Waboso initially enrolled at Aston University, before transferring to the University of Exeter in 2023 to pursue a medical degree.
At the University of Exeter, he began studying for a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS). His medical studies run parallel to his professional rugby career, demonstrating his exceptional time management skills and determination. His decision to pursue medicine reflects his desire to have a well-rounded future, balancing the physicality of rugby with the intellectual rigor of a medical profession.
Rugby Career: From Club to Country
Professional Debut and Exeter Chiefs
Feyi-Waboso’s rugby career began at a young age. He played at the junior level in Cardiff, making waves with his skills. His professional journey took off when he joined Exeter Chiefs in 2022, a prestigious rugby union club in the Premiership Rugby league. Since then, he has been a regular starter, showcasing his prowess as a wing player. His incredible speed, agility, and knack for scoring tries have made him a key player for Exeter Chiefs.
In addition to his club success, Feyi-Waboso made his international debut for England Rugby in 2024. He represented England in the Six Nations Championship, where he immediately made an impact by scoring his first international try against Scotland. His performances on the field have led to a spot on England’s touring squads, including trips to Japan and New Zealand, further solidifying his place in the England Rugby team.
Career Stats
As of 2025, Feyi-Waboso’s rugby stats are a testament to his hard work and dedication. In the 2023–2024 season, he scored 10 tries for Exeter Chiefs, earning the Breakthrough Player of the Season award and a place in the Premiership Rugby Team of the Season. His versatility, speed, and tactical awareness have been key to his rapid rise in the rugby world.
Injury: Setbacks and Comeback
Like many athletes, Feyi-Waboso has faced his share of setbacks. In December 2024, while playing for Exeter Chiefs, he dislocated his shoulder during a match against Sale Sharks. This injury required surgery, and as a result, Feyi-Waboso was forced to miss the Six Nations tournament in early 2025. This injury led to some controversy, as there were public exchanges between Exeter Chiefs’ coach, Rob Baxter, and England’s head coach, Steve Borthwick, regarding the timing of his surgery.
Despite this setback, Feyi-Waboso has remained determined to return to the pitch. By late February 2025, he was already in the rehabilitation phase of recovery, working hard to make a swift return. His resilience and dedication to his recovery show his commitment to both his rugby career and his long-term goals.
Nationality and Qualifications for England Rugby
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso’s eligibility to play for England Rugby stems from his English paternal lineage. While he was born in Wales and represented Wales at the U18 level, he chose to play internationally for England due to his English heritage. This decision was a significant one, marking a pivotal moment in his rugby career as he moved from representing his home nation to competing for one of rugby’s most prestigious teams.
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso: Personal Life and Legacy
Height and Weight
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso stands tall at 1.83 meters (6 feet) and weighs around 89 kg (196 lbs). His physical attributes, combined with his natural athleticism, make him an ideal wing player, capable of utilizing both speed and strength to outpace opponents.
Age and Future Prospects
At just 22 years old, Feyi-Waboso’s career is still in its early stages. With a promising future in both rugby and medicine, he is a player to watch in the years to come. His work ethic and desire to succeed in multiple areas of his life have already earned him recognition, and many believe he is on track for even greater achievements.
Parents and Family
Although much is not publicly known about his parents, Feyi-Waboso comes from a supportive and diverse family background. His parents’ influence, combined with the love and encouragement of his siblings, has played a crucial role in his success.
Conclusion
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso is a remarkable young talent who is juggling two demanding careers—professional rugby and medicine—with ease. His journey from Cardiff to representing England Rugby and playing for Exeter Chiefs has been nothing short of inspiring. With a bright future ahead in both fields, Feyi-Waboso serves as an example of dedication, resilience, and ambition. As he continues to grow both as a rugby player and a medical student, fans and observers alike will be eager to follow his journey and witness the legacy he will undoubtedly create.
As of now, Feyi-Waboso remains a key figure in English rugby and a student at the University of Exeter, with much more to come in his professional and academic life.
