Joe Fishburn, a 24-year-old Team GB gymnast from Scarborough, is celebrating a remarkable victory: he was crowned the 2025 Gladiators champion. But for Fishburn, the win represents something far deeper than athletic achievement.
Fishburn grew up with his grandmother, Christine, after the loss of his mother, and spoke openly about not having a father figure during his childhood. He says his biggest accomplishment isn’t the trophy, but demonstrating to young people facing difficult circumstances that their dreams are attainable.
“It was such an incredible opportunity – I’ve got contender envy,” Fishburn said, reflecting on the experience. The win has provided him with a platform to inspire others, proving that adversity doesn’t define a person’s potential.
Despite his newfound fame, Fishburn remains grounded, continuing to coach at Scarborough Gymnastics Academy and lead online fitness classes. He admits to still feeling “in a bubble,” a year after filming the show, but is grateful for the opportunities that have arisen.
“I wanted to share that if someone has a different start to life it doesn’t mean they can’t do something and to show gymnasts anything is possible,” he explained. Fishburn is now an ambassador for Kinship, a charity supporting carers and guardians, further solidifying his commitment to helping others.
He also noted the positive impact his success has had on the gymnastics community, with his grandmother Christine being his most enthusiastic supporter. And, with a playful glint in his eye, Fishburn confessed he’s even considered becoming a Gladiator himself, suggesting the moniker “Gravity” – “so I can defy it.”
BBC/Hungry BearCommentator Guy Mowbray described the latest season of Gladiators as “particularly brutal,” filled with “a lot of spills and thrills.” He highlighted the introduction of a new game, “Destruction,” featuring equipment as heavy as a car engine, calling it “pure exhilaration.”
Gladiators returns on BBC One and iPlayer at 17:45 GMT.
