Gladiators unveil two sizzling new additions with one being first ever for show

The two newest members of the awesome Gladiators cast have been announced.

Meet Athena and Comet – with the former also being the first Sikh Gladiator.

The iconic show is set to return to the BBC later this year after a 23-year hiatus and fans are going wild.

READ MORE: Gladiators icons then and now – tragic death, prison, career change and health battle

Producers have been introducing the new fighters ahead of the taping in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, and Athena and Comet are the latest exciting addition.

Athena – real name Karenjeet Kaur Bains – is a champion powerlifter and has represented Great Britain in many high-profile competitions. The 25-year-old also holds the Guinness World Record for the most bodyweight squats in a minute.

Described as "small but mighty" Athena is a chartered accountant, too.

She said: "I represent all those from diverse and minority backgrounds, especially women, that have ever been denied the opportunity to pursue their dreams in sport.

"I hope I can be a role model and show the levels a female can achieve if she is given the opportunity to follow her passion and given the wings to fly!”

Then meet Comet – a former elite gymnast.

Real name Ella-Mae Rayner, she is also a semi-professional diver as well as a former competitive cheerleader.

Comet, 27, trains six times a week at the gym and is also a fitness model and coach and has cited former Gladiators legend Jet as her inspiration.

Show bosses have said she is "a force of nature, flashing past you. Collide with her and you’ll be dust!"

Ahead of the show, Comet said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be Comet. I loved watching Gladiators growing up.

"I specifically remember Jet, she was an icon for me as a child and one of the reasons I become a gymnast.

"I can’t believe I will be following in her footsteps. It really is a dream come true”.

Athena and Comet join the previously announced Sabre, Apollo, Dynamite, Nitro, Diamond, Giant, Fire, Legend, Fury and Steel as part of the "new generation of mighty Gladiators ready to challenge a brave set of contenders in the 11-part series".

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