JOE Marler has been officially confirmed as the first celebrity to join the Gladiators line-up – with his show name being revealed.

Rugby player , 36, will make his debut when it returns for its fourth series in 2027.

A man with a beard, wearing a black vest over a black t-shirt, black shorts, and brown boots, stands in front of a blue backdrop with "The Podcast Show" logo repeated.Joe’s Gladiator name has been revealed as he becomes the first celebrity to join the line-up Credit: Dave Benett/Getty Images Locker room with uniforms and equipment for Apollo, Legend, Mauler, Steel, and Nitro.The rugby player will be known to fans of the BBC One show as Mauler Credit: BBC

In a clever play on his name, he will be known to fans of the BBC show as Mauler.

The Sun revealed last month how Joe – who starred on last year – .

A source said: “A source said: “Everyone is so excited about Joe’s surprise stint.

“It goes without saying he’s got the size, strength and muscle power to cut it as a Gladiator, but he’s also got the cheeky personality to match.

“Viewers of the original series and the BBC’s reboot love their Glad to come with a little sass and Joe will easily put on a performance in every sense of the word.”

It comes after we told following his exit from the show .

The Emperor and has already made a good impression with producers.

A source 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.”