Chiefs star reveals her alter ego

Jodie Ounsley has swapped life as an Exeter Chiefs rugby player to take on the role of  ‘Fury’ - In the new BBC Gladiators series.

Jodie, who has been part of Susie Appleby’s table-topping side this season, certainly has Gladiators in her blood as her father was a contender on the show in 2008. However, it’s her sporting background which also appeals to the show’s producers

A former England Women’s Rugby Sevens player, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu British Champion and five-time World Coal Carrying champion, she won the title of Deaf Sports Personality of The Year in 2018. She is completely deaf in both ears and wears a cochlear implant to help her communicate.

Hailing from Dewsbury in Yorkshire, Ounsley joined the Chiefs from Allianz Premier 15s rivals Sale Sharks in the summer of 2022.

Unveiled alongside UK CrossFit star, Zack George, who has been named ‘Steel’, Jodie said: "I'm proper buzzing. Watching Gladiators growing up I was always in awe of their strength and power and now I am one! I hope contenders are ready to feel the Fury.”

The hosts for the show are father and son presenting duo Bradley and Barney Walsh.

Competitors from the general public take part in a series of games including  Duel, Hang Tough and The Eliminator - the gruelling obstacle course.