In a thrilling conclusion to this year's competition, gym owner Amanda Wah and gymnastics coach Joe Fishburn have been crowned the champions of Gladiators 2025. The final, which aired on Saturday evening, April 12, 2025, on BBC One, showcased the remarkable prowess of both contenders as they faced off against their respective rivals.
Amanda Wah, hailing from Warrington, emerged victorious in the women's final against Aneila Afsar, a 26-year-old supply teacher from Manchester. Aneila had a slight edge going into the Eliminator, starting with a 1.5-second head start due to her performance in earlier rounds. However, Amanda quickly closed the gap, showcasing her incredible strength and determination. She completed the Eliminator in a record-breaking time of 1 minute and 18 seconds, a feat that left viewers and fans in awe.
After her victory, Amanda dedicated her win to her late mother, expressing her emotions during a heartfelt moment with co-host Bradley Walsh. "That one's for you, mum. This has been the best experience of my life - unbelievable," she said, reflecting on the journey that led her to this moment. Amanda, who owns Momentum Collective gym, emphasized how surreal it felt to achieve a childhood dream. "This is a childhood dream come true – what a wild ride, and absolutely the best show to be a part of," she shared.
Meanwhile, Joe Fishburn, a 23-year-old gymnastics coach from Scarborough, faced off against Mus Dumbuya, a 32-year-old youth worker from East London. Joe entered the Eliminator with a six-second head start and completed the course in an astonishing 55 seconds, setting a new record for the Eliminator. After the win, he paid tribute to his grandmother, Christine, who raised him after he lost his mother at the age of two. "I never had a father figure present, and she's done everything for me. I hope you're proud," Joe said, his voice filled with gratitude.
The competition, which has captivated audiences since its revival in 2024, featured a mix of intense physical challenges and emotional moments. For eleven weeks, contestants faced the show's iconic Gladiators, navigating obstacles like giant metal balls, fierce tackles, and the daunting Wall. Amanda described her experience as akin to being on "work experience," highlighting the supportive nature of the Gladiators despite their fierce reputation. "They are the biggest, fiercest, strongest people but also extremely supportive," she noted, recalling moments when they helped her through cramps and equipment malfunctions.
Reflecting on her journey, Amanda expressed how the show allowed her to inspire the next generation. "It would mean the world to me to show young girls and women – especially ones who might look a bit different to the norm – that they can be winners," she said. Her message resonates deeply, as she aims to challenge traditional gender roles and promote strength in women.
The emotional finale was not only a personal triumph for Amanda and Joe but also a celebration of resilience and determination. Cheering Amanda on were her girlfriend, two children, and a community of supporters who had rallied around her throughout the competition. Joe was supported by his family and Roddy Mackay, a contender from the original 1993 Gladiators.
Social media erupted with congratulations for both champions, with fans expressing their joy and pride in their achievements. Comments flooded in, praising Amanda and Joe for their incredible performances and sportsmanship. "Great champions this season, well done to them amazing contenders!!" one fan tweeted, capturing the sentiment of many.
The Gladiators franchise, originally aired from 1992 to 2000, has seen a resurgence in popularity with its 2024 reboot. The show now features a new generation of athletes, including Finlay Anderson and Marie-Louise Nicholson, who were crowned champions in the previous year. The success of the show has led to plans for a Gladiators Live Tour, set to debut across UK arenas this year.
As Gladiators continues to inspire and entertain, Amanda and Joe's victories serve as a reminder of the power of perseverance and the importance of support from family and friends. Their journeys reflect not only their individual strengths but also the collective spirit of the contestants who have competed fiercely over the past weeks.
Fans can catch all the action and emotional moments from the final on BBC iPlayer, celebrating the triumphs and challenges faced by the Gladiators in their quest for glory.
