Athlete, author, champion of health and fitness and all-around entertainer Laila Ali will join Hulk Hogan as co-host of NBC's latest midseason primetime offering, the return of the competition series "American Gladiators."

"Laila is a Gladiator in her own right," said Craig Plestis, Executive Vice President, Alternative Programming, Development and Specials, NBC Entertainment. "Her fierceness in the ring is matched only by her charisma and authenticity. There is no competitor -- male or female -- who she can not relate to on a personal and competitive level."

"It's an honor to be reintroducing this American classic to a new generation of fans," said Ali.