Genesi: "Gladiateur" website online

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I am still in awe over the scope of this.

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I just hope that they don't do that stupid "thumbs up to live, thumbs down to die" bit that's total bunk.

All because someone misinterpreted the term "thumbs turned."  It was the sign to die, when you point your thumb to your throat and gesture, thereby signing that you want them to die.  If you want to live, you grasped your thumb and held it up, as if to say "sheathe your sword."

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@AndrewKorn
here is the painting I believe you were referring to.

A masterpiece.

But yes, a lot of debate.  Ok ok, I can live with thumbs up/down, just don't forget the Rolex Watches*.  This is, after all, the Spartacus revolt.  

*during the making of the movie Spartacus, several actors were spotted on film wearing their watches, which they'd forgotten to take off.

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@AndreKorn

I've always liked the Retiarius, but then again, I've always been a good fisherman.  (Ironic, as I'm allergic to fish)

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@KennyR

And if you think merchandising is bad today?  Ho boy, you should see some of what they've dug up in the ruins of Rome.  Huge tile adverts, with some Gladiators face selling Chariots!  The old "billboard" is hardly a new idea, and using a handsome, famous athlete to promote your product is ancient.