The BBC One show Gladiators is welcoming its first celebrity Gladiator in Joe Marler, a former Harlequins and England rugby player who will compete under the name 'Mauler'. This move follows Marler's recent success on The Celebrity Traitors, where his charm and humor helped make him a standout in the program.
Instead of taking to the Strictly Come Dancing dance floor as many had expected, Marler is focusing on power and endurance. He will participate in events such as Powerball and The Ring, where his experience as a rugby player will give him a significant advantage. These challenges demand a mix of strength, speed, and strategic thinking, all of which Marler has demonstrated throughout his career.
Rugby's Gladiators legacy
Rugby players have long found a place among Gladiators' elite athletes. Jeremy Guscott, the former Bath and England centre, may not have been a Gladiator himself, but his presence on the show was significant. He co-hosted the original UK version of the show, which helped solidify the connection between rugby and this high-energy competition.
Zoe Williams, who competed as Amazon, brought her rugby background to the Gladiators arena. Before joining the show, she played at a high level in the North-East. Williams has since become a well-known figure in British media, appearing on programs like Trust Me, I'm A Doctor and This Morning, while also continuing her work as a practicing GP.
Jodie Ounsley, who competed as Fury, was a standout athlete with a diverse sporting background. She represented England in Sevens and played for Exeter Chiefs in the English top-flight before retiring from rugby at the end of the 2023-24 season. Ounsley’s achievements extend beyond rugby—she is a British Brazilian jiu-jitsu champion and has won the world coal-carrying championship multiple times. She also supports the deaf community and has used a cochlear implant since she was just 14 months old.
A new Gladiator with rugby roots
Marler’s rugby career highlights his leadership and physical capabilities, making him well-suited for the challenges of Gladiators. As a prop, his role required immense strength and coordination, and those qualities will serve him well in the arena. The BBC is hoping that his quick wit and charisma will bring a new dynamic to the show, much like the show’s resident pantomime villain, Legend.
Marler has played for top clubs such as Harlequins and has also had a stint with London Irish and Yorkshire Carnegie. He was a key player in Sevens competitions and captained England at under-16, under-18 and under-20 levels, leading the under-20s to second place in the 2011 Junior World Championships. His versatility and experience in high-pressure situations give him the confidence to take on the Gladiators' challenges.
The show has a strong history of rugby players who have successfully transitioned into competitive sports and entertainment. Marler’s inclusion feels like a natural progression. His ability to tackle, position, and anticipate opponents’ moves is exactly what the Gladiators are looking for to test the contenders. Whether he becomes a favorite or a new icon, the arena is ready to welcome Joe Marler as Mauler.
Marler’s mix of strength, agility, and humor is a winning combination in the world of Gladiators. With his rugby background and the show’s appeal to a wide audience, he is poised to become a key player in the arena. The BBC is banking on his performance to add excitement and entertainment to the show.
As the first celebrity Gladiator, Marler represents a new chapter for the show. His rugby experience has given him the tools to excel in the physically demanding events, and his personality ensures that he will bring a fresh energy to the competition. Fans are eagerly awaiting his performance, confident that he will make a lasting impression in the Gladiators arena.
The connection between rugby and Gladiators has grown stronger with the addition of players like Marler. With his background and determination, he is ready to make his mark on the show. The BBC is optimistic that his arrival will bring a new wave of excitement and success to the arena.
