In the first heat, four everyday Aussies battle the Gladiators in events like Duel, Powerball, Pyramid, The Wall, and The Eliminator.

Fresh-faced firefighters Chris, Alex, Taylah and Caitlin face the challenges, but only two make it through the inferno and into the quarterfinals.

The third heat sees four new contenders try for a quarterfinal spot, but controversial referee calls, a competition-ending injury and nail-biting competition mean not everyone's going through.

Four contenders face drama in Duel, The Wall, Powerball, Pyramid and The Eliminator; Comet makes an explosive debut; Viking returns to the arena; only two advance to the quarterfinals.

The participants face a blast from the past as the sons of the original participants go against the superfans Rachelle and Sam to secure a place in the quarterfinals.

Liz and Beau welcome Janice, Michelle, Jason and Sohrab; as Raven and Maximus make their debut, the last quarter-final spot must be filled soon.