BBC Gladiators star Giant's replacement 'revealed' after axe claims

The BBC have reportedly found Giant's replacement on Gladiators. Earlier this year, Giant, 40, whose real name is Jamie Bigg, departed the hit BBC show amid much controversy when he went public with then-girlfriend Taylor Ryan, 28, and it emerged that she worked as a model on OnlyFans.

Execs were quick to air their disapproval, and the athlete said that he was "shocked and disappointed" by the move, which he directly linked to his partner's racy work. Now, it's been revealed that body builder and fitness instructor Ahmad Rabus, 37, has now been cast on the Bradley and Barney Walsh's hit programme, with just weeks to go until cameras roll at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield.

A source told The Sun: "Gladiators bosses loved Ahmad’s energy and positivity, they think he will be a great addition to the team. There are also rumours there could be a few other newbies joining the gang.” A BBC spokesperson declined to comment.

READ MORE: BBC Gladiators future officially confirmed two years after reboot

READ MORE: Gladiators' Giant 'splits from girlfriend' after OnlyFans controversy and BBC show axe

According to the outlet, Ahmad is a dad of one and previously went into detail about his fitness journey on his social media.

He wrote on Instagram: "My passion with fitness started at a young age. I started training at the age of 17 and have undergone my own transformation and dedicated myself to training for 17 years.

It comes after Jamie hinted that he and Taylor had decided to call time on their relationship. Writing on Instagram, he said: "Lately, I've spent a lot of time reflecting. Not on what I've achieved, but on who I want to become. Right now, I'm doing what I find the hardest... I'm taking the time I need to work on myself."

At the time, insiders claimed to the Daily Mail, he had taken himself off to Spain for some space. "They haven't ruled out getting back together in the future but Jamie knows he needs to work on himself right now," a source told the publication.

Jamie's Instagram post continued: "I'm spending time in my own busy brain trying to unpack and make sense of all the thoughts. I'm rebuilding routines, strengthening my mindset, improving my health, and gaining clarity on the man I want to be.

"One thing I know for certain is that I have a genuine passion for helping others. And if being honest, raw, real and transparent about my own journey helps even one person find their direction, purpose, or confidence again, then it's worth sharing. "Growth isn't always pretty. Self-reflection isn't always comfortable. But both are necessary if you truly want to become the best version of yourself. The work continues."

Giant, who has two children with ex-wife Katie, was furious at being axed for Gladiators and made his feelings very clear as it all unfolded.

He said in April: "After three incredible seasons on Gladiators, I was shocked and disappointed to learn that I wouldn’t be returning to the show for season four. This news followed shortly after I had shared plans to go public with my relationship.

"My partner, Taylor, is someone I’m incredibly proud of. While she is known for her work on OnlyFans, that is just one part of what she does, a business-minded entrepreneur, someone who dedicates her time to fostering dogs and genuinely one of the kindest people I’ve ever met. Her values align closely with my own.

"During conversations with the BBC, ‘child safeguarding’ was raised, something I take extremely seriously, especially as a father and role model. I want to be clear that I have always upheld the standards expected of me, both professionally and personally. Being a positive role model has always been central to who I am, on and off screen. I stand by my values, and I stand by the people I love."

A Gladiators spokesperson had previously said: "After three formidable series, Giant is leaving Gladiators. We'd like to thank him for everything he has contributed to the show and wish him well for the future."

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