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Neil ‘Razor’ Ruddock delivers big laughs and football tales at Medina Theatre!


Neil Razor Ruddock on stage at Medina Theatre, November 2025, being interviewed by Kenzie Benali
Credit: Neil Ruddock live on stage / Seamless Entertainment / Jennifer Stone Photography

The exclusive event was organised by Seamless Entertainment and hosted by Kenzie Benali.

‘Razor’ Ruddock, renowned as one of football’s great characters, dived straight into stories across his long playing career.

He revisited his early days at Millwall, before recalling the highs and lows of his move to Tottenham Hotspur — including the leg break he suffered on his Spurs debut against Liverpool.


Razor spoke warmly of his spell at Southampton, describing the club as a “wonderful place to play,” and praising his former teammate Alan Shearer, calling him his “best friend in football.”


He also shared fond memories of playing alongside Francis Benali, father of the host Kenzie, saying he took the pressure off him on the pitch because he “kicked everything that moved.”


“How you can be that nice and that bad is amazing,” he joked, noting the contrast between Benali’s tough tackling and gentle personality.


Presenter Kenzie Benali on stage interviewing the former professional footballer Neil 'Razor' Ruddock
Credit: Kenzie Benali live on stage / Seamless Entertainment / Jennifer Stone Photography

His time at Liverpool remains one of the most treasured chapters of his career. He told the audience how much he loved playing at Anfield and hearing You’ll Never Walk Alone.


Neil ‘Razor’ Ruddock delivers big laughs and football tales at Medina Theatre!


Razor later recalled his move to West Ham United, which he described as “the funniest two years of my life,” telling the audience how Harry Redknapp put him in charge of the squad on nights out — “how mad is that!” he exclaimed.


His career chapter at Crystal Palace, as well as the personal struggles he faced, were also discussed, along with earning his lone England cap in a 1–0 win over Nigeria after several squad call-ups.


Razor moved on to his television career, including appearances on Harry’s Heroes — which he said “saved his life” — as well as Big Brother, MasterChef, and I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!

He laughed as he recalled failing a medical to appear on Strictly Come Dancing the same year Anne Widdecombe took part.

During the intermission, Razor spoke exclusively to the County Press, sharing his affection for the Island.


He recalled handing out medals at the children’s SCI football tournaments and attending charity events for Mountbatten.


Neil 'Razor' Ruddock and presenter Kenzie Benali on stage at Medina Theatre, November 2025.
Credit: Neil Ruddock & Kenzie Benali live on stage / Seamless Entertainment / Jennifer Stone Photography

He also revealed his fondness for the Garlic Farm, adding that he tried to visit earlier in the day but found it closed due to a power cut.


Razor had already eyed up the menu, particularly the chilli chutney, which he said he had planned to buy along with potential Christmas presents.


During his time on the Island, he stayed at Albert Cottage in East Cowes, saying he enjoyed it so much he wanted to return with his family “for a month next summer.”

He gave a special shoutout to Annie at Albert Cottage for her hospitality.

Travelling via Red Funnel, he spent time on the bridge during the crossing, even taking temporary control under the captain’s supervision and making an announcement over the Tannoy to tell passengers to return to their vehicles.


When Razor returned to the stage, he leaned into running jokes about his divorce — a theme that drew plenty of laughter.


The audience Q&A produced further stories, including one about Harry Redknapp once calling an urgent meeting at the training ground.


Players arrived fearing the worst, only for Redknapp to advise them, their families and their friends to bet on the Israeli entry, Diva, in the 1998 Eurovision Song Contest, after a camera operator had tipped him off about the 33/1 odds. Diva went on to win the competition.


Neil 'Razor' Ruddock talking about his football career on stage at Medina Theatre, November 2025.
Credit: Neil Ruddock live on stage / Seamless Entertainment / Jennifer Stone Photography

A spokesperson for Seamless Entertainment said: “A huge thank you to everyone who attended the evening with Neil ‘Razor’ Ruddock.


“The evening was such an inspiring and entertaining experience for all.

“It was definitely a night to remember with Razor, and we look forward to seeing you all at our next events!”

The auction raised £775 for Wessex Cancer Support.

Sponsors Red Funnel, Central Garage Citroen Newport and Wilkinson Pies were thanked.


By: Seamless Entertainment / Zach Saunders — County Press


Originally published at https://www.countypress.co.uk on December 5, 2025.



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