BBC Gladiators viewers devastated as fan favourite forced to quit line-up

Gladiators fans are disappointed that one of its stars canceled the new series due to injury.

On Saturday, the revived BBC show announced that one of the Gladiators had sustained an injury while training. It was revealed that Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, 36 – better known as Nitro – won’t be competing in the new series as a result.

The “bad news” was shared by hosts Bradley Walsh, 64, and Barney Walsh, 27, at the Utilita Arena Sheffield, where the show’s filmed. Nitro was speculated to be appearing in the most recent series, but he won’t be participating in any events.

Bradley told the audience: “Okay, we’ve got some bad news, don’t we? Unfortunately, one of our Gladiators was injured during training, making it impossible for him to compete in this series. Barney however added: “But the good news is that he’s still here. He’s joining us in the arena, right now, and Sheffield, please give a warm welcome to Nitro”.

After heading out into the arena, Nitro shared after being asked what happened: “Obviously, y’know, I’m explosive. I’m powerful. Sometimes I overpower myself, which causes me harm. And I have a “dodgy knee” a little bit. He then told the two hosts: “But these things happen in sport, y’know? When you exert as much pressure on yourself.”

Bradley asked: “I mean, we’ll still be seeing you throughout the series, right”? Nitro said: “Yeah. The pecs aren’t going anywhere. They’re right here. They’re staying here”. Hyping up the crowd, he added: “I need all of those Nitro fans out there to give me some energy, cause I need to recharge”!

Numerous viewers expressed disappointment that Nitro won’t compete on the new series after hearing about it on X. One viewer wrote: “Day ruined by the news that Nitro is injured and won’t be taking part in this series of #Gladiators … devastated, he’s the best one”!

Another said: “What a shame about]Nitro], my favourite”! A third person wrote: “Gutted Nitro won’t be competing on Gladiators, he’s a family favourite”! Whilst someone else commented: “So disappointing that Nitro is out for the whole season”. One fan wrote: “All the best to Nitro… hope to see him back soon”! Sharing their thoughts, another viewer said: “Series ruined. He’s the best of the best”.

Prior to his role as Nitro on Gladiators, Harry was best known as an Olympic sprinter. He and Nancy Xu, a professional dancer, recently competed in the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special from last year.

Next Saturday at 5:50 p.m., BBC One and BBC iPlayer will air the new Gladiators series.

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Source: Mirror