Kyle Bernier, Carolina Flight

Kyle Bernier grew up in Murphy, North Carolina, played football and track through college, and found CrossFit not long after. That pursuit has taken him across the country and driven him to the doorstep of the CrossFit Games. This May, he is setting his sights on the NorCal Classic for a shot at qualifying for the CrossFit Games.

His path to American Gladiators started with an Instagram DM from a casting producer. After multiple interviews, a phone call confirmed he would be an alternate contender. His journey on the show takes some unexpected turns with an ending that will not disappoint.

Bernier joined the Carolina Flight as a utility player, recruited by team owner Cody Loeffler, who recognized his well-rounded fitness as a natural fit for the role. The Carolina Flight’s first training camp is in just a few weeks, and Bernier is excited to observe, perform and enjoy being on a team again.

Bailey Meraviglia, New York Wolves

Bailey Meraviglia owns Stroud CrossFit in Pennsylvania with her husband. Her athletic background spans field hockey, karate, pole vault, and Spartan Races, all leading her to CrossFit.

After competing at the 2024 Syndicate Crown, a casting producer reached out via Instagram. After an interview process, Meraviglia earned a spot on the American Gladiators roster. The women’s Gladiators lineup she faced was built for intimidation: seven-time CrossFit Games athlete Dani Speegle, IFBB Pro and World Champion Powerlifter Dani Means, AEW/NWA pro wrestler Kamille, and 6’3″ personal trainer and former NCAA athlete Emily Nelson, among others.

The experience surfaced something she is carrying directly into Grid.

“I realized the need to work on bilateral movements, jumping, agility, and body awareness,” Meraviglia said. “The specialized, niche athleticism for American Gladiators has a similar carryover to the unique demands of Grid.”

The New York Wolves have a bye for the opening Miami match. Their first match is scheduled for June in Lakeland. Meraviglia is coming in strong on snatch ladders, handstand obstacles, ring-to-handstand, and deficit handstand push-ups.