The physical appearance of boxers and wrestlers has remained practically constant with the contestants in peak physical condition, sometimes wearing elaborate costumes and armour for dramatic effect.

The Gladiators of ancient Rome inspired modern TV shows, cinematic films and even computer games like "Mortal Kombat". The television game show "The Gladiators" has been a worldwide hit. Although non-lethal, the concept of the show was to capture the spirit of gladiatorial contests- person pitted against person in exciting arenas that could assume almost any shape or form. The more elaborate and outlandish the better. In order to keep spectators interested new scenarios and games would be in a state of constant evolution. It is not hard to imagine the Roman sponsors going through the same creative process to keep the masses of Rome similarly occupied and distracted.

Athletes and contestants selected by their physical prowess and skills. In the modern gladiators, gymnastic, sporting achievement good looks and muscular bulk are the pre-requisites.

Many of the ancient sports survive in one form or another. Chariot racing in the guise of Formula 1 and horse racing, wrestling and boxing survive almost unchanged. The gladiators may have died with the empire, but their spirit and influence are alive and well in the modern period.

Just another example of how the legacy of the Roman Empire still reaches us after fifteen hundred years.