Gladiators star set to sign for new series of Strictly as bosses also eye up boxer – but fee could be stumbling block

GLADIATOR Nitro is set to sign up for the new series of Strictly and show bosses are also keen to land Love Island boxer Tommy Fury.

They hope the pair will be a knockout with fans of the dance contest.

Former Olympic sprinter Nitro — real name Harry Aikines-Aryeetey — is on the verge of agreeing a deal with BBC chiefs.

It would be a major coup for producers and a nod to the growing influence of Holly Willoughby’s husband Dan Baldwin, whose talent agency represents Nitro, 35.

Nitro appeared on Strictly in December reading out voting phone numbers.

And he was filmed backstage dancing with professional Dianne Buswell.

A source said: “Strictly chiefs think it’s a great idea to cross-pollinate entertainment shows and cast a Gladiator.

“Nitro is a fan favourite and has a lively personality, so it will be interesting to see how he harnesses that energy on the dance floor.”

Meanwhile reality star Tommy, 25, brother of world boxing champion Tyson Fury, is also in the show’s sights but his huge fee demands could be a stumbling block.

Fury, engaged to Molly-Mae Hague, who he met on Love Island in 2019, earned £5million for a bout last year with YouTuber KSI.

Stars on Strictly are reported to get a flat fee of £25,000, rising the longer they stay in the contest.

A source said: “Bosses are trying everything to get Tommy on.

"They believe Molly-Mae in the audience would also pull in younger fans.

“Producers believe he would be a hit with the ladies.

"But his pay demands are too high.

“They’re hoping he will appreciate how Strictly will generate a new type of follower for him.”

A BBC spokeswoman said yesterday: “We don’t comment on speculation.";