Doncaster Gladiators star bids for Guinness World Record in latest gruelling challenge

22-year-old fitness fanatic Finley Burkitt had to pull out of the hit BBC show earlier this year after suffering a knee injury as he did battle at Sheffield Arena.

But he’s bouncing back – and has lined-up a 24 hour pull up challenge which he hopes will land him a place in the Guinness Book of Records.

Finley will take on the challenge on September 7 – wearing a 10kg weighted vest.

He said: “I’m currently waiting on a response from Guinness World Records to give me a record worthy target as no one in the world has attempted this before.

"My current aim is to get 2,000 to 2,500 pull-ups within the 24 hours.

He said: “Not only do I want to push my body and mind to its limits to see what It’s truly capable of, it’s also a chance to help raise money for the amazing charity that is Combat Stress.”

The charity helps veterans who suffer from PTSD and Finley added:

"Whilst growing up, I admired my uncle who served in the military - he was my hero and still is.

"For as long as I can remember, I’ve always had undeniable respect for anyone who’s serving or served for our country. This is my opportunity to give back and get them the help they deserve.”

He added: “I’ve set the bar very high but I believe with the correct approach we can go above and beyond the target which is set

“There’s a lot of s*** going on in this world at the moment so let’s try make a positive difference together.

Finley is hoping to raise £2,000 and you can contribute to his campaign HERE

Finley had to pull out of the rebooted show after suffering a serious knee injury in the heats – but he bravely battled on to complete the gruelling Eliminator to qualify for the quarter finals.

But as the quarter final contestants were revealed, Finley, wearing a supportive leg brace, told host Bradley Walsh he would no longer be taking part due to rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament.

Wearing a white T-shirt and black trousers rather than the Gladiators red and blue tracksuits, Walsh told Finley: “Sorry to see you like this!”

Opening up about the injury, sustained during the bruising Gauntlet game, Finley said: “My knee has lost a lot of strength but I’m staying positive.

“I’m very hopeful for the future. I’m back next year, fitter, stronger and faster.”

His place in the contest was taken by 35-year-old wrestler Wesley.

After the show, Finley took to social media, describing his Gladiators experience as “bitter sweet” but said his TV appearance had opened “many doors.”

He wrote: “It’s bitter sweet writing this because being on Gladiators was one of the best experiences of my life.

"I’ve met some truly amazing humans along the way, who’ve given me a massive amount of confidence, motivating me to push myself even further.

“Thank you for all the support over the weeks and especially now. All I can say is my heart is full.”