Joe Marler’s Gladiator name revealed as BBC officially announce him as first celebrity to join show line up

JOE Marler has been officially confirmed as the first celebrity to join the Gladiators line-up – with his show name being revealed. Rugby player Joe, 36, will make his Gladiators debut when it returns for its fourth series in 2027. Joe’s Gladiator name has been revealed as he becomes the first celebrity to join the line-up Credit: Dave Benett/Getty Images The rugby player will be known to fans of the BBC One show as Mauler Credit: BBC In a clever play on his name, he will be known to fans of the BBC show as Mauler. The Sun revealed last month how Joe – who starred on Celebrity Traitors last year – was in talks to become a Gladiator. Sign up for the TV newsletter Thank you! A source said: “A source said: “Everyone is so excited about Joe’s surprise stint. “It goes without saying he’s got the size, strength and muscle power to cut it as a Gladiator, but he’s also got the cheeky personality to match. “Viewers of the original series and the BBC’s reboot love their Glad to come with a little sass and Joe will easily put on a performance in every sense of the word.” It comes after we told who will replace Jamie ‘Giant’ Biggs following his exit from the show for dating an Onlyfans model. Hunky body builder and fitness instructor Ahmad Rabus, 37, has been cast The Emperor and has already made a good impression with producers. A source said: “Giant was one of the most popular Gladiators so bosses needed a big personality to take his place. Most read in TV “They absolutely love Ahmad and think his show name The Emperor is iconic and will make a big impression with viewers. “He is strong minded and brilliant at getting into character.” Comment now