Gladiators star Cyclone has broken her silence over her exit from the BBC show, insisting she was not axed and chose to leave of her own accord.
Speculation had circulated earlier this week that Lystus Ebosele, known as Cyclone, had been dropped from the lineup before a fourth series. The rumours followed the departure of other former Gladiators as the BBC looked to reduce spending.
In an Instagram story on Thursday, July 31, Ebosele apologised to fans for her sudden departure, clarifying that quitting had been entirely her choice.
Cyclone's statement
Addressing the rumours, she wrote: "There are videos and so many different narratives circulating about me being 'axed' from the show I had previously been a part of. I have not been axed, I have left of my own accord."
She added: "I'm so sorry to all the families that have come to filming expecting me to be there, and have found out about my absence on arrival to the arena with no explanation, I truly am, because it's not fair to the fans of the show how things have transpired."
Reasons kept private
Ebosele said she does not know "if or when" she will reveal her reasons for leaving, but insisted it was the "correct decision" for her.
In a separate Instagram post, she paid tribute to her time on the show, writing: "In saying that... I would never ever regret my time on the show. I've made sisters and brothers 4 LIFE and I've gotten to inspire a generation of young girls to grow up knowing they can be STRONG, BEAUTIFUL and that they can UNAPOLOGETICALLY DOMINATE whatever world they choose."
She added: "But there's no world in which I can stay and be a part of the show any longer. Thank you to everyone who has tuned in and supported me up until now it means the world. Love C."
Future plans
The 25-year-old Irish powerlifting champion reassured fans they will still see her on the Gladiators Live Tour in 2026. The nationwide tour begins in Aberdeen on October 10, with Ebosele saying she is "very excited" to take part.
Her departure follows news that fellow Gladiators Bionic and Athena will both miss the fourth series because of injuries. Giant has also been confirmed as absent from the upcoming season.
Before the new series airs, a celebrity special is set to air later this year, featuring Taskmaster stars Sara Pascoe and Chris Ramsey, Big Brother host AJ Odudu, and Strictly finalist George Clarke.
