Former Bath Rugby player Alex Gray, has been confirmed as one of the new Gladiators, when the hit TV show makes it’s return later this year.
Gray will be going by the stage name ‘Apollo’ and will be taking on the likes of weightlifters, bodybuilders and former Team GB Athletes in physical challenges. Gray’s sporting career has been far from conventional, as he has previously played professional rugby as a number eight, centre or winger.
Gray began his rugby career in the Newcastle Falcons Academy, and progressed into the senior squad for nine appearances in 2010. He then made the move to London Irish for two seasons, before making the decision to take time away from rugby union.
Gray made the move stateside, and pursued the dream of joining the NFL. He paved the way as the first British sportsman to be signed an American Football team. He was picked up by the Atlanta Falcons, but did not progress any further than the franchises’ practice squad. In similar circumstances to Christian Wade at the Buffalo Bills, Gray did not make full first team appearances in the NFL.
In November 2020, Gray made his return to rugby union and joined up with Bath Rugby. However, he decided to walk away from the Somerset club after making just six appearances. Gray recently took to social media to share the news that he would be a Gladiator, when the legendary TV show makes it’s comeback.
“Words really can’t describe this feeling. From being inspired by this show as a kid and dreaming of being a Gladiator one day, being totally amazed by the games, the arena and the original Gladiators, to now being chosen as one of them, it’s unbelievable.
“I’ve done some cool stuff in my life but this is absolutely the greatest. Never ever give up on yourself! Dig deep, keep the stars in your eyes, the fire in your heart and keep on believing.
Named after the Greek God of Sun. I can’t wait to get out there and dish out the greatest ass-whooping Saturday night TV has ever seen… and to also win this years’ sexiest man in spandex award.”
Confirmed Gladiators:
- Sheli McCoy – Sabre – Weightlifter and CrossFitter
- Alex Gray – Apollo – NFL and professional rugby player
- Emily Steel – Dynamite – Swimmer and CrossFitter
- Harry Aikines – Nitro – Team GB sprinter
- Levi Sheldon – Diamond – Bodybuilder and footballer
- Jamie Christian Johal – Giant – Bodybuilder
- Montell Douglass – Fire – Team GB sprinter and bobsledder
- Matt Morsia – Legend – Bodybuilder
- Fury – Jodie Ounsley – Exeter Chiefs professional rugby player and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu British Champion