Spartacus

Spartacus is perhaps the most famous gladiator of all time. Originally a Thracian soldier, he was captured and sold into slavery, eventually becoming a gladiator. In 73 BC, Spartacus led a major slave uprising against the Roman Republic, known as the Third Servile War. His leadership and tactical skills allowed the rebel forces to win several battles against the Roman legions. Although the rebellion was eventually crushed and Spartacus was killed, his story has endured as a symbol of resistance and freedom.

Crixus

Crixus was prominent figure in the gladiatorial world, best known for his role as a leader alongside Spartacus in the Third Servile War. Originally from Gaul, Crixus was a formidable warrior and an essential part of the rebel slave army. Despite differences in strategy with Spartacus, Crixus led a separate force and fought valiantly against the Roman legions. He was ultimately defeated and killed in battle, but his bravery and dedication to the cause made him a legendary figure among gladiators.

Commodus

Commodus, Roman Emperor from 180 to 192 AD, is known for his unusual involvement in gladiatorial combat. Unlike other emperors who distanced themselves from the arena, Commodus actively participated in fights. He staged elaborate public spectacles where he would defeat numerous opponents, often under rigged conditions to ensure his safety.

Lucius Aelius Aurelius Commodus was born the son of the reigning emperor Marcus Aurelius in AD 161, and eventually inherited the position form his father. His mother Faustina the Younger were also of imperial blood, as she was the daughter of Emperor Antoninus Pius who died a few monts prior to the birth of Commodus. Notably, Marcus and Faustina were first cousins.

Emperor Commodus would enter the gladiatorial arena dressed as a secutor. The secutores formed a class of gladiators which typically carried a heavy shield and a short sword, gladius or dagger. A secutor would normally fight a retiarius; a lightly armoured gladiator carrying a trident and a net.

Commodus´ staged fights did not earn him much praise among the contemporary Romans and his gladiatorial ventures were largely seen as scandalous and disgraceful. According to the civil servant and historian Herodian (c. 170 – c. 240), spectators felt that it was unfitting for an empror to take up arms in the amphitheater for sport, when he could be leading real campaigns against Rome´s enemies. It should also be noted that Commodus charged the city of Rome a hefty fee for each of his appearances in the arena.

Not only was it considered wrong for an emperor to fight in the arena; Commodus also did it in a cowardly way that further served to harm his reputation in Rome. His opponents always submitted to him and he never lost a fight. It should be noted that Commodus did not kill his standard gladiator opponents; he just accepted their surrender.

Even though fights between humans and animals could be quite popular in Rome, Commodus´ massive killings of exotic species did not endear him to the public. Among other things, Commodus killed three elephants and a giraffe, and he is said to once have killed 100 lions in a single day.

Since Commodus was carrying out actions seen as unfit for someone of his position and pedigree, rumours began to circle that Marcus Aurelius was not his real father and that his mother Faustina had enjoyed a love affair with a gladiator at the coastal resort Caieta around the time of his conception.

We also know of some rather wild tales that may or may not be true; or may be partly true but exagerrated.The senator and historian Cassius Dio (c. 165 – c. 235) alleged that citizens of Rome who had no feet, e.g. due to accidents, were rounded up and taken to the arena where Commodus would pretend they were giants and club them to death. Cassius Dio also wrote about how Commodus decapitated an ostrich and carried the bleeding head over the senators´ seating area, motioning with his sword to suggest they would be next. According to Cassius Dio, the senators found the situation ridiculous rather than scary, and chewed on laurel leaves to conceal their laughter.

Commodus’ association with the gladiatorial games, along with his erratic behavior and misrule, all contributed to his controversial legacy and eventual assassination. He was assassinated by the wrestler Narcissus in 192, and was succeeded by Pertinax. This marked the start of a tumultuous period known as the Year of the Five Emperors.

Flamma

Flamma, a Syrian-born gladiator, achieved immense fame during his career. He fought in the arena for over 13 years, an unusually long time for a gladiator. Flamma won numerous battles and was awarded the rudis (a wooden sword symbolizing freedom) four times, but he repeatedly chose to remain a gladiator. His remarkable skill and loyalty to the gladiatorial life earned him great respect and admiration, making him one of the most celebrated gladiators of his time.

Priscus and Verus

Priscus and Verus were two gladiators whose epic battle was recorded by the poet Martial. Their fight took place during the opening games of the Flavian Amphitheatre (later known as the Colosseum) in 80 AD. The match ended in a draw, and both gladiators were awarded their freedom by Emperor Titus. This event was notable for its display of skill and sportsmanship and has been celebrated in Roman history as one of the greatest gladiatorial contests.

Carpophorus

Carpophorus was renowned for his exceptional skill in fighting wild beasts, a type of combat known as venatio. He gained fame for his ability to take on multiple animals in the arena, including lions, bears, and leopards. Carpophorus’ prowess in these deadly encounters made him a favorite among the spectators and a celebrated figure in the history of the Roman games.

Spiculus

Spiculus was a gladiator who enjoyed the favor of Emperor Nero. He was known for his impressive combat skills and was frequently summoned by Nero to perform at various events. Spiculus’ close relationship with the emperor brought him wealth and fame. According to historical accounts, Nero even requested Spiculus’ assistance in ending his life during his final days, though the gladiator was unable to reach him in time.

Tetraites

Tetraites was a successful gladiator known from inscriptions and artwork discovered in Pompeii and other parts of the Roman Empire. He was celebrated for his victories in the arena, particularly in the style of combat known as the murmillo. Tetraites’ fame extended beyond Rome, as evidenced by his depiction in various artifacts, which highlights the widespread popularity and admiration he received during his career.