As the nation gears up for the return of the hit TV show Gladiators on BBC One tonight at 5.45pm, one of its stars has issued a light-hearted but firm warning to his fellow competitors.
Nitro's Hilarious Warning for Fellow Gladiators
Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, 37, better known by his Gladiator name Nitro, has suggested his Strictly Come Dancing professional partner would be a formidable opponent on the arena floor. In an exclusive chat with Birmingham Live alongside dancer Karen Hauer, the sportsman confessed he would be scared for any Gladiator facing her.
"I would be scared for the Gladiator, if she was to go up against them, because I feel like she's got a warrior inside," Harry said, grinning. "The Gladiators would have to watch out for Karen."
Karen Hauer's Warrior Spirit and Gladiators Admiration
The playful exchange continued as Karen, a fan of the show, struck a fighting pose and quipped about her own competitive spirit, claiming she can go "Zero to 100 in minus three seconds." Beyond the jokes, however, Hauer expressed sincere admiration for the athletic spectacle.
Speaking about visiting Harry on the Gladiators tour, she said: "I didn't even want to blink, 'cause I didn't want to miss anything." She described herself as a "proud sister," capturing countless videos of Nitro in action.
"It's amazing to watch the athleticism, but this is not just 'I'm going for a run,' it's like lightning across the floor," Karen added, praising the incredible power, height, and strength of the competitors.
Celebrating Body Positivity and Superpower Mentality
Hauer also highlighted the positive message at the heart of the revived show. "I love seeing the body positivity and the mentality that these guys have," she stated, emphasising that everyone could benefit from a bit of their "superpowers."
The new series of Gladiators begins tonight, Saturday 17 January 2026, at 5.45pm on BBC One and iPlayer. Meanwhile, fans can see Harry and Karen's partnership continue on the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour, which comes to Birmingham's Utilita Arena from 23 to 25 January. Tickets are available via StrictlyComeDancingLive.com.
