We're all familiar with
American Gladiators, the early '90s phenomenon that pitted Joe Everyman against a series of hulking, testosterone-fueled beasts. But beneath their powerful pectorals, these gladiators had hearts... tortured hearts. For more, we turn to their
Lost Diaries.
NITRO (Dec. 22nd, 1993):It's getting harder and harder to focus when I'm out there in the arena. It's… Laser. I don't know what it is about him. His powerful grip on the tennis ball gun… the way his thighs clench when he climbs the rock wall… I shouldn't write this down. I shouldn't even think it. It's a sick perversion. This will be the last time I mention it.
ICE (Dec. 30th, 1993):As I near my 8th month of pregnancy, I wonder if I should still be competing. I've taken some pretty hard blows to the stomach in the Joust lately, but I think the baby can take it. I haven't been doing 300 Uterus Crunches every morning for nothing. Gemini says I'm going to have to name the baby "Crushed Ice." He's such a goofball. I mean, I'm sure it's fine, you know? Not every mother-to-be can feel the baby kicking. Right?>