INFINITY.

Remember the television show American Gladiators which pitted the contestants against hand-picked, intimidatingly ripped gladiators by the names of “Ice”, “Zap”, “Gemini” and “Nitro”? If the contestants were worthy; the joust, powerball, and break through and conquer proved to be entertaining, otherwise it was a bit boring watching the gladiators easily dominate a “wannabe athlete.” Many a night my brother and I would watch these episodes clutching pillows and tossing ‘em around the living room mimicking the moves of the conquering gladiators. It was professional wrestling clashing with Battle of the Network Stars type of “sports entertainment.”

If memory serves me correctly, gladiator “Nitro” was University of Hawai’i volleyball champion, Pono Ma’a, but all credits of “Nitro” are to some guy named Dan Clark. Determined, I was able to find this photo of the “Nitro” action figure and sure enough that’s Pono Ma’a’s handsome mug and python thick biceps on the packaging. So although I was correct, I’m curious now as to why he’s not part of the Wikipedia info? Regardless, I remember him being a fierce competitor with his stern stare downs and his hair pulled back like a true Warrior prepared for battle. On a side note, anyone know what he’s been up to since retiring from coaching?

NBC has revived the television show still named American Gladiators, with new events and new gladiators. Hawaii is represented once again with gladiator “Toa” former defensive lineman for the University of Hawaii turned Hollywood award-winning stunt man, Tanoai Reed. Reed has compiled an impressive resume which includes being the stunt double for his cousin, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Judging from his gladiator press release photo, “Toa” looks to be a tough gladiator. Tune into NBC when the new American Gladiators premieres in January.