Cobra. Chaos. Comet. These are just some of the iconic stage names that belong to the cast of Gladiators. But we’re not here to talk about them, we’re here to discuss Sandor Earl’s performance as Phoenix.
In Gladiators, a group of permanent competitors, also known as Gladiators, battles against a series of one-time contestants called Challengers. These battles consist of wrestling matches, obstacle course races, aerial-based fights, and other physical challenges.
As a Gladiator, your aim is to shame these one-time contestants. As a Challenger, your goal is to vanquish your opponents and go down in the history books as a victor.
According to Beau Ryan, one of the hosts of Gladiators, this series is going to be an exciting challenge for all involved.
“I grew up watching and loving Gladiators and can’t wait to get into it,” Beau said. “It’s going to be spectacular.”
Hence, the responsibility falls on Phoenix to compete to the best of his abilities and emerge victorious. But, can this bird handle the heat?
Who Is Gladiators’ Phoenix?
Gladiators’ Phoenix is portrayed by a New Zealand Māori man named Sandor Earl.
Sandor is best known for his time as an NRL player. Between 2009 and 2013, he played for the Sydney Roosters, Penrith Panthers, and Canberra Raiders.
In 2013, Sandor was suspended from the NRL for using a performance-enhancing drug called CJC-1295. Consequently, he was banned from the sport for four years.
From 2018 until 2020, Sandor made a comeback to play for the Melbourne Storm. He currently resides in Melbourne and serves as the Director of Performance at Air Locker Training.
Phoenix’s Fierce Gladiatorial Strategy
Phoenix isn’t above playing mind games with his opponent. What’s more, Gladiators claims he has incredible speed, power, and strength, which will certainly come in handy.
“Towering in height and physique, he is the ultimate competitor and knows it,” a Gladiators press statement declared. “Those who dare to enter the Gladiator Arena for combat must earn his respect.”
Gladiators is set to premiere at 7.30pm on Monday, January 15, only on 10 and 10 Play on Demand. Miss this premiere? Catch up on 10 Play.
Want more Gladiators? Read all our stories here and the pieces below:
- ‘Gladiators’ Reboot Is Landing in 2024 With Brand New Hosts
- Put on Your Fighting Tights — We Now Know When ‘Gladiators’ Will Drop
- Are You Not Entertained? We Now Know Some ‘Gladiator’ Details
- So, Was ‘Gladiators’ 2024 Filmed in a Literal Colosseum? The Facts
- Could You Beat the Cast of ‘Gladiators’ in a Fight? Here’s What We Know
Read more stories from The Latch and subscribe to our email newsletter.
