BBC Gladiators star replaced ahead of final as painful injury leaves her 'devastated'

A leg injury has forced a contestant to withdraw from the competition after reaching the final. Zavia Hill, a personal trainer from Manchester, was injured during one of the games on the BBC One show's semi-final.

Despite being treated by a physiotherapist backstage and making it to the final leg, an assault course called The Eliminator, she later had to pull out. Her place will be taken by Aneila Afsar, a supply teacher also from Manchester, who is breaking barriers as the "first Muslim woman on the show".

Reflecting on her journey, Zavia said: "Reaching the final felt special, I usually give up when I feel like I've failed."

She added that during the Gauntlet game, she said: "I knew my time on the show was probably over, I was devastated." Zavia also revealed that she felt "like a butterfly with newfound confidence" after being in the arena, and urged Aneila to do "Manchester proud".

Aneila shared her mixed feelings about advancing to the final, revealing: "Anyone who's been following the show knows how badly I wanted to make it to the final, but this isn't the way I wanted to get there. At the same time, I'm beyond grateful for the opportunity and so excited for what's ahead."

She paid a heartfelt tribute to Zavia, an admirable competitor and friend, stating: "An incredible contender and an even better person. It's an honour to represent her and I'll actually be wearing some of her gems in the final."

Furthermore, Aneila disclosed her competitive edge and history in sports, adding: "Winning Gladiators would be amazing. I'm a competitive person and a former pro-athlete so I'm always in it to win it."

But she values her groundbreaking participation more than victory alone, explaining: "But honestly, just getting here is huge. I've already broken so many barriers as the first Muslim woman on the show, and now being in the final is incredible."

She also underlined the significance of representation, saying: "I know that my presence alone will have a positive impact on Muslim women, and that means everything to me."

A showdown awaits as Aneila will compete against Amanda Wah, while Joe Fishburn faces Mus Dumbuya in the men's finale.

Finlay Anderson and Marie-Louise Nicholson took the title in the previous season. The popular series is hosted by Bradley Walsh and Barney Walsh.

Gladiators: Grand Final will air on April 12 at 5.50pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.