GLADIATORS, READY... FOR SOME FIGHT FACTS

Grave danger: Historians reckon the first gladiator fights, dating back to 264 BCE, began as a bonkers funeral ritual. Rich Roman nobles pitted slaves against one another as a blood sacrifice for the deceased, believing it purified the soul for the afterlife.

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Contenders, ready: Punters were treated to a mix of gladiators. While the Murmillos and Secutors brandished mighty swords and shields, the Hoplomachus and Retiarius carried spears, plus a trident and fishing net, respectively. At a distinct disadvantage were the Andabatae, who had to wear a blindfold in battle.

Glad rags: When in dire straits, you still want to look fly. That's what Roman fashionistas were thinking, anyway, while designing the gladiatorial outfits, minimal armour was worn with fetching canvas loincloths, which did little to protect their crown jewels.