The gladiator sword, often a gladius, was a short, double-edged weapon designed for close combat in Roman arenas. Surprisingly, not all gladiators used the same sword; their weapon depended on their fighting style and class. Gladiator swords were not just weapons but symbols of status and survival. Skilled gladiators could earn custom-crafted swords as rewards. Additionally, some swords were intentionally blunted for theatrical fights, ensuring entertainment without immediate fatality.