Gladiator's READY!

NITRO, ELECTRO and APOLLO on the return of their sports spectacular

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Get ready to feel the power again as the Lycra-clad team of elite athletes take on another collection of brave contenders in tests of speed and strength when BBC1's sports game-show reboot Gladiators returns for a second series.

The new 11-part run sees Bradley Walsh and son Barney reprise hosting duties at Sheffield's Utilita Arena, while the current 16-strong squad of Glads, including Fire (Strictly 2024 contender Montell Douglas) and Legend (bodybuilder Matt Morsia), will welcome two fresh faces, whose identities are under wraps, to their team.

They'll be showcasing their skills in established events including Duel and Powerball, as well as in new challenges Atlaspheres and Unleash.

To find out more, TV Times caught up with Nitro (AKA Olympian Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, who, due to a knee injury, will be supporting on screen from the sidelines), Apollo (former rugby professional Alex Gray) and Electro (fitness coach Jade Packer)...

Welcome back! What can we expect from the new series?

APOLLO It's bigger, better and badder! The competition has gone through the roof with a lot of good contenders, which makes for some great battles between them and us. There are also new games to look forward to. There's a lot to be excited about!

Yes, the new games: assault course Unleash plus Atlaspheres, where Glads and contenders battle each other while caged in huge spheres. Wait, that one sounds familiar...