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The former England prop is back in action on Sunday after signing up to play in The 745 Game at Mattioli Woods Welford Road.
Marler will line up for Team Slater against a Rugby League Legends side, with a number of big names from both codes involved.
The 36-year-old last played professionally for Harlequins in November 2024, shortly after bringing an end to his England career.
He finished with 95 caps for his country, but supporters will get the chance to see him back on a rugby pitch this weekend.
Marler back in action
Marler won't be the only former England international dusting off the boots.
Ben Youngs, Mike Tindall and Billy Twelvetrees are also involved, while Alex Waller, Richard Hibbard and Jake Polledri are among the other familiar names taking part.
The full squads have now been confirmed, with the game taking place after Leicester Tigers' PREM clash with Saracens.
For Marler, it comes almost two years after his final appearance for Harlequins.
Speaking after that game, he said: “It’s been great. I guess it’s over now.”
Not quite.
Marler confirmed his comeback earlier this year, and this weekend will finally see him back out there.
The former prop has remained one of rugby's most recognisable characters since retiring, with his latest exploits away from the game regularly making headlines.
Special cause
The result, of course, isn't really what Sunday is about.
The 745 Game raises money in honour of Rob Burrow, Ed Slater and Doddie Weir, three hugely popular figures from rugby union and league whose lives have been affected by motor neurone disease.
The number 745 comes from the shirt numbers associated with the trio.
According to the My Name'5 Doddie Foundation, money raised from the event will support the Rob Burrow Discretionary Trust, 4ED Foundation and My Name'5 Doddie Foundation.
It should be a special afternoon at Welford Road – with Marler's comeback giving supporters another reason to stick around after the PREM action.
And yes, Joe Marler really is playing rugby again.
