BBC Gladiator star and renowned athlete Dynamita, also known as Emily Steel, has reacted to the news that her fellow competitor Zavia Hill was forced to bow out of the contest just before the final.

Tonight's finale faces a significant alteration with contender Zavia stepping down after sustaining an injury, causing ripples in what was set to be an electrifying close to the competition.

Zavia soared through her semi-final challenge and was one of the favourites for the final showdown, but a brutal collision during Powerball marked the beginning of her troubles.

She showcased her immense skills by continuing to compete across subsequent events, including the grueling Eliminator; nevertheless, it's her injury that sees her miss out on the final.

With Zavia's untimely exit from the show, it falls upon semi-finalist Aneila Afsar, who emerged as the swiftest female runner-up, to take on the final alongside Amanda Wah.

Amidst the anticipation for the grand finale, Dynamita, along with her co-finalist, featured on Friday's (11th April) edition of 's The One Show, hosted by the duo Clara Amfo and Gabby Logan, reports .

It wasn't long before host Gabby brought attention to the startling development affecting the finalists' lineup, stating: "There has been a bit of drama with the female finalist because Zavia has had to withdraw because of injuries and Nilah has gone in as the fastest runner up, which just goes to prove once again that this competition is not for the faint-hearted."

Dynamita candidly reacted to the abrupt shift, conceding: "It is tough." She went on to explain: "Us girls don't hold back, we hit hard and we are ruthless sometimes as well, if you catch us on a bad day."

The 21-year-old further remarked: "All the contenders are just at a completely different level this year because they came in wanting to smash it, wanting to win. Every single one of them has done absolutely amazing."

As the competition intensifies after weeks of thrilling clashes, two deserving Gladiator contenders will be named victorious in the second series. Aneila and Amanda Wah will battle for the female crown, while Mus Dumbuya and Joe Fishburn vie for male honours.

They'll face five challenging events before the ultimate test on the Eliminator. News also emerges that Gladiators will take the excitement nationwide with an arena tour announcement. The game show will spring to life, thrilling fans with iconic Gladiators such as Giant, Sabre, Nitro, and Fire going head-to-head with TV competitors in a variety of classic challenges.

Showrunners are touting the tour as an absolute must-see event for devotees. An insider commented: "The live show will be a spectacular, high-octane show with all the fan-favourite events.

"It will provide non-stop action. Audiences will be drawn into the spectacle with bespoke sets designed to engross them and advanced lighting turning the arena into the ultimate gladiatorial arena, crafting an unparalleled live experience."

The Gladiators final airs tonight at 5:50pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.