Worcester's Gladiator Diamond 'this generation's Jet'

Diamond - real name Livi Sheldon - made her debut on Saturday (January 13) as Gladiators made a nostalgic return to our TV screens.

The bodybuilder, who has a degree in sports science, played football for Worcester City Ladies before finding fame on the BBC show.

“When I was growing up I used to get picked on for being taller than everyone else,” she told the Gladiators official website.

The new cast of Gladiators (Image: Guy Levy/BBC)

“Now I get to show everyone that being unique is your superpower. I can't wait to get into the arena and take on the contenders as Diamond.”

The reaction online suggests Diamond is already a hit with fans - with many likening her to Lightning and Jet, two fan favourites from the original series in the 90s.

Kayleigh Louise Thomas said on X (formerly Twitter): “Watching the new Gladiators and OMG. These women… so inspirational! I’m in love with Diamond, Athena and Sabre!”

A number of people online said Diamond is “this generation’s Jet” while one X user said she reminded him of his crush on Lightning back in the day.

In a promotional post ahead of the series opener, Diamond said she loves hugs, is “all about empowerment” and said her Gladiator name suits her because: “Diamonds are strong, unbreakable. Diamonds are made under pressure and I was made under pressure.”

Gladiators made its long-awaited television comeback at the weekend, hosted by Bradley Walsh and his son Barney.

Former Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg is on umpire duties and as well as following the fortunes of new contestants, there were a whole host of new Gladiators for fans to meet.