NITRO choked back tears after making his dancefloor debut – admitting he’d “dreamt of this moment” following a devastating injury.
, known for his fearless feats on as Nitro, was visibly emotional as he stepped onto the stage for the first time.
Harry Aikines-Aryeetey got emotional making his Strictly debut
The star took to the floor after recovering from a serious injury
The star revealed the journey back from had been tough, making the debut a moment he had long dreamt of.
Harry told viewers: “This time last year, I didn’t think I would be able to do anything like that. So I’m a bit emotional.
“I’ve dreamt of that moment, even at Christmas I wasn’t 100% but I’m here and 100%.”
Fans were moved, applauding his courage and determination as he faced the spotlight.
However, judges couldn’t help but notice his timing issues during his dance.
With a total score of 19, the judges admired the star’s energy but needed to fix his timing.
Harry was at the beginning of series two after sustaining an injury to his knee in training.
Gladiators fans were gutted, but had the chance to see him back on his feet after he .
Now, Harry is preparing to return to the dance floor for a second time as part of the class of 2025, and has opened up about how lucky he feels to be back to full fitness.
Speaking to The Sun Online and other media, Harry, 37, said: “I’m very lucky, I think Christmas was so, so much fun.
“It was great for me because I was coming off the back of an injury, and that gave me the confidence actually, because it was the first bit of activity I’d done.
“Because I did wonder whether I’d be able to be Harry Aikines, the sprinter again, Nitro… it was quite a serious injury.”
Harry revealed he was back to full fitness, and was able to compete in the third series of Gladiators earlier this year, which will air in 2026.
He took part in the Strictly Christmas Special after he started to recover from the injury 
