Joe Marler Didn’t Talk to England Teammate for 18 Months – Blokes Just Didn’t Get On

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Marler’s ongoing spat with Sir Clive Woodward has been long and public. Woodward, England's 2003 World Cup-winning coach, criticised Marler and fellow prop Dan Cole during a webinar, lambasting their behaviour in a press conference ahead of England's defeat to South Africa in November 2019. Woodward’s criticisms weren't new; he’s had his sights on Joe Marler for years.

In response to a Rugby Pass article highlighting Woodward’s comments, Marler fired back on Twitter: “Change the record, Sir Clive – you should be grateful you can 'milk the cow' for another three years."

Former Wallabies full-back Israel Folau, known for his controversial views on homosexuality, has also been in Marler’s crosshairs. Folau, who has been absent from the rugby union scene for over 1,000 days, returned to the sport recently, with speculation he could represent Tonga. Marler has taken multiple opportunities to mock Folau, posting a series of tweets featuring men kissing—clearly targeting Folau’s well-documented homophobia.

Marler’s Twitter banter earned him praise from both fellow players and the LGBTQ+ community. Adding a twist of humour, he even included Folau in his "dream team," suggesting a post-match night out at Brighton’s Blue Oyster club.

In 2017, winger Marland Yarde made headlines for a dramatic mid-season switch from Harlequins to Sale Sharks.

While Yarde’s departure stirred controversy, Marler was candid about their relationship: "I hadn’t spoken to the bloke in 18 months. I’d lost the plot with him a good while ago."

Despite the tension, Marler didn’t wish Yarde ill, stating, "I wish him all the best. I don’t wish nastiness upon anyone."

However, he admitted that their relationship was beyond repair: "He’s one of those to just leave, as he won’t change in my mind."

Marler’s clash with Argentine prop Marcos Ayerza back in 2011 was nothing short of explosive. Both players were sent off by referee Wayne Barnes after a scuffle that saw Ayerza headbutt Marler, prompting Marler to retaliate with a series of punches. The incident has gone down in rugby lore as one of Marler’s more memorable dust-ups.

Welsh playmaker Gavin Henson has also been on the receiving end of Marler’s physicality and sharp tongue. In 2016, Marler laid a hefty off-the-ball hit on Henson, sidelining the Welshman for weeks.

This wasn’t their first altercation, with Marler recounting a story from 2005 in his book, where Henson’s vanity and attitude rubbed many the wrong way, including his captain Gareth Thomas.

When asked to hurry up by Thomas, Henson coolly responded: “Alf, your mother and father have come to watch you play today, but there are 72,000 out there who have come to watch me.”

Marler’s no-nonsense approach on and off the field ensures his name stays in the headlines—often for more than just his performances.

Marler on Leonard: "My Idol - I still pinch myself when I'm in his company. A juggernaut on the pitch and a legendary drinker and socialiser off it."

Marler on Farrell: "The only indispensable player is Farrell. He is to England what Cristiano Ronaldo is to Portugal, or what Steph Curry is to the Golden State Warriors. With his leadership, ability and drive, England are a different animal. Owen takes things by the scruff of the neck, just like his dad."