As Team GB’s gymnast Joe Fishburn prepares to face Mus Dumbayah in the Gladiators final, he reflects on how the show has transformed his life and inspired others with his story of overcoming adversity.
Getting to the Final Was the Best Thing I’ve Ever Done
Gymnastics coach Joe Fishburn has told viewers to expect ‘fireworks and tears’ ahead of tonight’s final of Gladiators. The 24-year-old Team GB gymnast from Scarborough will take on Mus Dumbayah later for the chance to be crowned series two champion.
Joe Fishburn‘s Journey
When he set out on his Gladiators journey, Joe Fishburn wanted ‘to inspire people and get more people involved in sport.’ He also hoped his life story would help give people ‘faith and hope when they face a challenge.’ Joe Fishburn said that approaching the show with the intention of ‘giving everything my all’ was key to his success.
A Unique Background
Joe Fishburn‘s background is unique, having lost his mother at just two years old. He also lacked a male role model in his life, which made him determined to push himself further. His former coach from Scarborough Gymnastics Academy, Nikki Walker, said she had been stunned by his achievements on the show.
The Impact of Gladiators
For Joe Fishburn, being on Gladiators has changed his life in incredible ways. He feels grateful for the opportunity to inspire others and make a difference in people’s lives. His family and friends will gather for a ‘watch party’ with some of the gymnasts he coaches, and pride of place will be given to his grandmother Christine, who is described as ‘the VIP of VIPs.’.
A Newfound Appreciation
Talking about how his life had changed since becoming a contestant, Joe Fishburn said: ‘It’s been incredible, it doesn’t feel real.’ He also mentioned that having messages of support from people in similar positions to himself means the world. This is exactly what they set out to do when they started – to inspire and make a difference.
Looking to the Future
Joe Fishburn wants to continue ‘spreading the love and passion for the sport of gymnastics’ after his Gladiators journey. He believes that his story tells itself about how things can happen to you, and he lives every minute to the fullest, enjoying every cup of tea with Christine.
