Who is Gladiators star Diamond? All about Liv Sheldon
GLADIATORS is making a triumphant return to TV, and fans can't wait.
Unleashing her alter ego Diamond is bodybuilder Livi Sheldon.
Who is Livi Sheldon?
Livi Sheldon is part of the rebooted Gladiators.
She will show off her superhuman strength as she takes on various challenges.
Standing at 6ft tall, Livi has opened up about the struggles she has faced when it comes to her height.
She said: "When I was growing up I used to get picked on for being taller than everyone else.
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"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."
What has Livi Sheldon said about Gladiators?
Going by the name of Diamond while on Gladiators, she has been described as "unbreakable and super strong", earning her the name.
The bodybuilder is known as being "striking and indestructible".
Speaking about what makes Diamond so special, she told the BBC: "Her strength and her power, and she’s also incredibly quick too. Diamond, is unbreakable; she’s strong, powerful, and versatile."
Asked why she signed up to Gladiators, Livi said: "I’ve always wanted to inspire others to embrace their uniqueness, and encourage people to not hide away, and go for what you want.
"I was always the girl who played football with the boys and was seen as a bit of an outcast.
"I wanted to show younger girls that you can be a badass, but remain feminine and girly at the same time.
"So, in essence, I wanted to become a Gladiator to inspire, really... and to kick ass, obviously!"
When did Livi Sheldon start bodybuilding?
After graduating with a degree in Sports Science, Livi took up bodybuilding.
Her hard work led her to become a British Finalist 'England Toned Figure'.
Always being a sporty child, Livi started being active from the age of six when she played football for a boys football team.
She went on to move over to a girls' team, where she became captain for many years.
Livi then went on to play for Worcester City Ladies team.
Her latest challenge is taking on the Gladiators arena, which she says she has been training for since she was nine.
Posting a photo to her Instagram page, Livi said: "A dream come true! Becoming a gladiator! @diamondthegladiator @bbcgladiators.
"If there was an opportunity I could wish for this would be it!
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"This truly is the biggest thing that has ever happened to me and I can’t wait to get in the arena! I’ve been training for duel since I was 9 years old!
"Where are all my Diamonds?"