Gladiators Referee John Anderson Dies Aged 92

Iconic Gladiators referee John Anderson has died aged 92.

Anderson was best known for his role as umpire on the original ITV Show hosted by Ulrika Jonsson from 1992 to 2000. He also featured on the short lived Sky series.

He went on to be inducted into the Coaching Hall of Fame in 2002, having also trained more than 100 Olympians. He was the head coach of the Amateur Athletics Association of England and Scottish national coach. 

Anderson also worked Scottish Olympic runner Liz McColgan, Staffordshire born race walker Lisa Kehler, and hurdler William Sharman. 

Taking to Instagram, the TV show Gladiators paid a sweet tribute to Anderson.

"We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our beloved referee, John Anderson, at the age of 92", they wrote. "Our hearts go out to his friends and family. John will forever be remembered as the iconic voice that brought us ‘Gladiators Ready! Contenders Ready!’". 

The show honoured Anderson's iconic catchphrase on the show: "Gladiators Ready! Contenders Ready". 

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Former Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg, who is the current referee on the show which began earlier this year, also paid tribute to Anderson. 

"One of the most iconic voices and will always be remembered", he said.  "I had the most difficult task to follow him in the new series of Gladiators and watching him keep the Gladiators within the rules will always be with me!! Rest in peace legend!!".

Jane Omorogbe who took the Gladiators' name Rio, also paid homage to Anderson.

"This man literally changed my life in one simple phone call. Forever grateful. Thank you for believing in something I couldn’t see. Absolute legend", she said. 

Olympic sprinter Jennifer Stoute who was known as Rebel on Gladiators, added: "He was the best. He knew how to make us laugh and get mad toooo. Best memories". 

While actor and bodybuilder "Rhino" Mark Smith also hailed Anderson's  "smile, your voice and energy was second to none".

"The true back bone of Gladiators. My deepest condolences to your family", he added.