BBC confirms that former rugby player Joe Marler will become the first celebrity to join its revival of Gladiators. The BBC says Marler will compete under the name “Mauler” when the fourth series airs in 2027. Multiple outlets report that the show is bringing celebrity participation for the new series, with Marler selected as the inaugural celebrity Gladiator. The Mirror adds that his Gladiators name has been revealed ahead of his appearance, describing him as preparing to go up against the programme’s contestants. Other coverage from UK and regional newspapers similarly frames the announcement as a first for the BBC’s Gladiators format, highlighting Marler’s status as the first celebrity joining the show. No sources provided additional details on the competition format or Marler’s specific episode schedule beyond his expected start date for the fourth series. The information presented is consistent across outlets: Marler is confirmed, his on-show name is “Mauler,” and his appearance is tied to the 2027 broadcast of the fourth series.