GLADIATORS was supposed to be the ultimate test of stamina and strength, which is why the BBC is bringing the Nineties prime time show back next year.
But the millions of fans who tuned in every Saturday night didn’t know that some of the high-adrenaline challenges were fixed.
Cobra, aka body-builder Michael Willson, has revealed that the moving belt on the uphill travelator course was slowed down and sped up so competitors that producers wanted to win would reach the top first.
The strong man, who was one of only four gladiators to appear in every ITV series of the original version, also lifts the lid on behind-the-scenes scandals – including brawls, orgies, boozed-up performances and drug taking.
In one episode, Michael thought he was chasing down two contenders because he was so drunk.