Gladiators has returned for its new series on the BBC and hosts Bradley Walsh and Barney Walsh have announced that Harry Aikines-Aryeetey – known as Nitro – won’t compete on it
Gladiators: Bradley announces one Gladiator has an injury
Fans of Gladiators have shared their disappointment over one of its stars dropping out of the new series due to injury.
The revived BBC show returned for its second series on Saturday and it was announced during the episode that one of the Gladiators sustained an injury whilst 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. It was teased that Nitro will appear in the latest series but he just won’t be taking part in any events.
Bradley told the audience: “Okay, we’ve got some bad news, don’t we? Sadly one of our Gladiators sustained an injury in training which means he won’t be able 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’m too powerful and I end up hurting myself. And I’ve got a little bit of a dodgy knee.” He then told the two hosts: “But these things happen in sport, y’know? When you’re pushing yourself as hard as you do.”
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!”
The announcement prompted reaction on X, with several viewers expressing disappointment that Nitro won’t compete on the new series. 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. More recently, he competed in last year’s Christmas special of Strictly Come Dancing, where he was partnered with professional dancer Nancy Xu.
The new series of Gladiators continues next Saturday on BBC One and BBC iPlayer from 5.50pm.
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