Since joining the cast of Gladiators in 2025, Lystus Ebosele – AKA ‘Cyclone’ – has become a firm fan favourite.
Famed for her incredible strength and agility – not to mention a feisty, competitive attitude – Lystus has become a specialist at events like ‘Duel’ and ‘Powerball’.
But what is her background? How did she become a gladiator? And how is she so damn strong and fast?
Here are 3 fun facts that help explain:
1) SHE’S THE FIRST-EVER IRISH GLADIATOR
Lystus spun onto our screens to make her debut as Cylone in Heat 2 of Series 2, making her the first-ever Irish Gladiator.
She was born in Enniscorthy, County Wexford, in 2001.
2) LYSTUS IS A CHAMPION POWERLIFTER
A truly world-class powerlifter, in 2023, Lystus Ebosele won the World Junior Powerlifting Championships (84 kg+ class).
Then, just a year later, she set a junior world record total of 617.5 kg at the Arnold Classic UK, breaking an eight-year-old mark with huge lifts in squat, bench press and deadlift (245kg, 145kg, and 227.5kg, respectively).
3) SHE COMPETED FOR IRELAND IN ATHLETICS
Lystus was a champion shot putter and discus thrower and represented Ireland in youth competitions.
At the 2018 Celtic International Games, she won gold in the U18 discus and silver in the U18 shot put for Ireland.
CYCLONE WAS MADE TO WHIP UP A STORM
Given her background in powerlifting and athletics, it’s clear to see why Cylone is so comfortable chucking contenders around the Gladiators arena.
Next, find out about other gladiators: 5 Facts About Gladiators Star Montell ‘Fire’ Douglas, Everything You Need To Know About Diamond From Gladiators, and 5 Facts About Gladiators Star Quang ‘Viper’ Luong
