Gladiators legend John Anderson dies aged 92 as tributes pour in for show’s original referee

Gladiator legend John Anderson has sadly passed away aged 92.

The show’s original referee, who appeared on the series from its debut in 1992 until 2000, became famous for his catchphrase, “Ready contenders, ready gladiators.”

In addition to his broadcasting career, Glasgow-born John also coached numerous Olympians, including runner Dave Moorcroft, who broke the 5000m record in 1982.

Dave paid tribute to him, telling Athletics Weekly: “I can’t speak highly enough of John, he turned water into wine.”