Change is in the air, and with the Gladiators cast getting a shake-up, a bulky new athlete is reportedly stepping up to the plate.
In the past few months, we’ve seen Giant, Bionic, Athena and Cyclone all exit the show for one reason or another, with various replacements being announced by the BBC or rumoured along the grapevine.
Fan-favourite Giant, Jamie Bigg, claims he was axed from the show after he shared his plans to go public with his (now former) girlfriend, who was an OnlyFans creator.
Meanwhile, both Bionic, Matty Campbell, and Athena, Karanjeet Kaur Bains, both sustained injuries filming last season, although the latter has since taken to social media to share that she’s ‘fitter than ever’ and would comment on her absence in due course.
Last, Cyclone, Lystus Ebosele, also released a statement making clear that more had gone down behind the scenes, making it impossible for her to stay on.
As the Gladiators bite the dust one by one, The Sun has reported that the BBC has already lined up a new replacement in the shape of bodybuilder Ahmad Rabus.
His social media, which boasts 98k followers, is mostly dedicated to showing off his fitness routine and toned physique – he would certainly fit right in with the remaining cast.
Tipped specifically as a replacement for Giant, a source told the publication: ‘Giant was one of the most popular Gladiators so bosses needed a big personality to take his place.
‘They absolutely love Ahmad and think his show name The Emperor is iconic and will make a big impression with viewers. He is strong-minded and brilliant at getting into character.’
The married-dad-of-one was crowned Mr Universe in Italy in 2015 and offers regular coaching calls.
With filming wrapped in Sheffield’s Utilita Arena, it’s only a matter of time before we find out who is who in the fourth season.
Meanwhile, the BBC has already officially announced a new cast member in the shape of World’s Strongest Man victor Tom Stoltman, who is yet to be given an official name or costume for his alter-ego.
‘This is a dream opportunity, and I’m incredibly proud to become a Gladiator. I’ve spent my life pushing myself to see what I can achieve, and joining this incredible show is the next challenge.
‘I’m excited to bring my strength, determination and personality to the arena, but, most importantly, I want people watching to feel inspired to believe in themselves and take on their own challenges.’
Elsewhere, Celebrity Traitors star Joe Marler is reportedly in discussions to join the main cast as a guest Gladiator, the first of its kind during the reboot.
Over on Celebrity Gladiators, there’s also been turbulence.
Comedian Chris Ramsey is said to have been forced to drop out after an injury, with Traitors winner Harry Clark stepping in at the last minute as a ‘curveball’.
An insider said: ‘The audience where the show was being filmed at Sheffield Arena were enthralled by the turn of events and were thrilled when it was announced he was stepping in.’
The BBC has not offered a comment.