Here's why I believe Netflix should have sent Gabi Butler as a wild-card contestant after her shocking elimination from Battle Camp

Disclaimer: This Battle Camp article is based on the writer's opinion. Reader discretion is advised.

Netflix's Battle Camp quickly turned heads with its star cast and way of elimination. Reality TV fans love a good show with such renowned stars, sporting activities, and a little bit of friendly rivalry with fellow competing teams. However, things didn't work out quite as expected for Gabi Butler.

During the debut season of Battle Camp, Gabi Butler quickly became a fan favorite participant. She was among the strong contenders, as her background was cheerleading. With a stronger physique and a positive mindset, Gabi quickly became a visible opponent for the fellow campmates.

After her shocking elimination from the show, fellow campmates and fans were saddened. As Gabi stated in her Tudum interview from April 23, 2025, it was a "good way" to go out of the game. If Netflix had sent Gabi as a wild card contestant on Battle Camp, she might have become a finalist, and with a will as strong as hers, Gabi might even have won the show.

Battle Camp: If Netflix had sent Gabi Butler as a wild card contestant, things might have turned out a whole lot different

Viewers who witnessed Netflix's Battle Camp must be aware of the spinning Wheel. After losing a task or being nominated by fellow campmates/ teammates, participants' names go on the Wheel. At the time of the elimination, the host spins the Wheel and a random name where it stops, gets eliminated.

So, having no names or having as few times as possible was everyone's goal. During the second episode's elimination ceremony, Gabi Butler's name was once on the Wheel. There were a total of 18 spots on the Wheel where fellow campmates (such as Tony) had their names multiple times.

When the Wheel stopped on Gabi's name, it was a shock for everyone. She told Tudum that it was "gut-wrenching" and was definitely "not expecting" such an early elimination.

"I had an amazing team. Even though I didn't have as much time with them as I wanted, I was really grateful to have been able to have at least a few days with them. I didn’t have any votes the whole time that I was there, so if there was a way to go out, I think it was a good way," she said.

Seeing how popular Gabi was before coming into the Battle Camp, and getting even more popular after participating in the show, I believe Netflix should have sent her as a wild card contestant on the show. Her return would have changed the whole game, and she would have gotten the chance she truly deserved.

Most tasks featured in the competition were related to physical strength. For that, Gabi's cheerleading background had been very helpful, and she was one of the strong-minded individuals on the show.

If there was any chance, and Gabi had returned to the show, it surely would have changed the dynamics. In the beginning, after an elimination, new campmates were introduced. Gaby could have been an exception, as a wild card contestant, who might have changed everything that has happened on the show.

Firstly, Tony wouldn't have left Battle Camp. Secondly, he might have persuaded Gabi, as she was very clear from her side, but the chemistry must have been something to enjoy for the viewers. Additionally, the team dynamics and the politics that were part of a few participants' gameplay might have turned out differently.

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Netflix is now streaming the debut season of Battle Camp.

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