Former Cheetahs loose forward Aidon Davis has been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a form of cancer affecting the lymphatic system.

The 29-year-old Davis, who joined the English Premiership club Exeter Chiefs in 2022, will undergo chemotherapy, forcing him to step away from playing for the next few months. He has played 21 times for the Chiefs, scoring four tries.

Despite the challenging diagnosis, Davis remains positive, expressing gratitude to his family, friends, and the Chiefs organisation for their support and vows to stay involved in training as his treatment allows.

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“I want to thank my wife for being by my side every step of the way, and my family and friends, especially my Chiefs family, the players, coaching staff, medical staff and everyone in the organisation for being there for me, supporting me and being so understanding,” he told the club’s website.

“I’ll be back very soon, better and healthier than ever.”

Director of rugby, Rob Baxter acknowledges the tough time for Davis and emphasises the importance of early diagnosis facilitated by the club’s medical staff.

Baxter affirms the Chiefs’ full support for Davis’s fight against the illness, recognising his strength and popularity within the team.

Photo: Stu Forster/Getty Images