Gladiators star Giant's replacement has reportedly been unveiled as The Emperor, following Jamie Bigg's shock exit from the BBC competition. The 40-year-old left the show after allegedly being ordered to end his relationship with OnlyFans model Taylor Ryan, which he refused to do.
As filming for the upcoming series began, it has been claimed that bodybuilder Ahmad Rabus, 37, will step into his shoes. According to reports, the new Gladiator has been given the title of The Emperor after impressing bosses backstage.
New Gladiator's Background
Ahmad is a gym instructor and qualified personal trainer working in London. His official PT page also lists him as a lifeguard and swimming instructor. He wrote: "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. I have achieved various awards; competing in fitness and physique competitions around the world."
An insider said: "Giant was one of the most popular Gladiators so bosses needed a big personality to take his place. 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."
Jamie Bigg's Exit
The Emperor's rumoured introduction comes after Jamie left the show earlier this year, reportedly due to his romance with Taylor. The pair met at a Gladiators Live event last year and grew close. However, he later alleged that he had "to choose between dating Taylor and keeping my job".
Although Jamie chose to stand by his partner and walked away from the BBC series in April, five months into their relationship, it wasn't to last. They went their separate ways just two months later.
Taylor has since claimed that it was her career that came between them, telling The Sun: "It was my job. That's what it came down to for him. Me taking selfies would be a problem. He broke up with me over the phone and sent a follow-up text like it was the minutes of a meeting. That was mental. Then we were on and off for a couple of weeks, which was really stressful."
Jamie later added: "Taylor's job was one consideration, but it wasn't the only reason the relationship ended. I had a lot going on personally following my divorce and not being renewed for Gladiators. As with any new relationship, you learn what works for you both as time goes on. I have a lot of respect for Taylor and genuinely wish her the best."
