Gladiators star Athena has set the record straight after departing the BBC One show.
Karanjeet Kaur Bains, who is a powerlifter and fitness coach, sustained a major knee injury during filming earlier this year, reportedly ruling her out of season four.
She was forced to pull out of season three due to a complete ACL tear, meniscus tear, injuries to both the LCL and MCL, and a bone fracture.
However, Bains has now taken to social media to break her silence on her exit.
She wrote: "I've seen a lot of speculation recently that I'm still injured... The truth is I've been fully fit for several months now and honestly, I’m the fittest and strongest I’ve ever been.
"The rest I’ll comment on in due course, but I just wanted to set the record straight.
"In the meantime, here’s my latest track sessions… Actions speak louder than words."
Fans responded with messages of support in the comments, with one writing: “We love you Athena!
"Always queen of the arena regardless.”
Another person posted: “I’m sad you’re not there.
"But hopefully see you soon.”
Filming for the new series began last weekend, but both Bains and her co-star Bionic, real name Matty Campbell, were absent due to injury.
A source told The Sun that although they won’t appear on the show this year, they could potentially return for the live tour, depending on their recovery.
Newsquest has contacted the BBC for comment.
Two other Gladiators stars exit show
Outside of Athena and Bionic not being involved in the next series of Gladiators, Cyclone will also not be returning.
Lystus Ebosele confirmed on social media that she has stepped down from the series of her own accord.
In an Instagram story shared on Thursday (July 30), the 25-year-old powerlifting champion said she was not "axed," but chose to leave after appearing in two seasons of the programme.
She confirmed she will still take part in the 2026 Live Tour but will not return for future series.
Lystus has unfollowed the show’s official Instagram account and deleted all pictures of herself on the show.
Earlier this year, 40-year-old Jamie Bigg, known as Giant, also left the programme under controversial circumstances.
Bigg said he was let go after telling producers he intended to go public with his relationship, including the fact that his partner is an OnlyFans creator.
He said in a statement to the Press Association: "I made it clear that I was planning to go public with my relationship, including the fact my partner works as an OnlyFans creator, and shortly after that I was told I wouldn’t be continuing on Gladiators.
Are you said to see Athena leave Gladiators? Let us know in the comments.
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