Base Class: Fighter
Gladiatorial combatants were historically forced into lives of bloodshed for the entertainment of others. Gladiators have a wide range of battle styles, similar to a barbarian, fighter, or knight. Gladiators are typically normal, nonmagical people turned to hardened warriors by circumstance. Given their raw potential and drive, Gladiators are not figures to be taken lightly in battle. Many Gladiators fight hoping to regain lost freedom; others do so for the gore and glory.
Combat Specialization
Starting 3rd level, you may choose a Gladiator Archetype through which you begin to narrow your focus as a warrior to specialize in a particular field of combat. Choose one from the subclasses all detailed at the end of the class description.
Cestus
Much like a monk, but with protection for their hands, Cestii bludgeon their enemies to death with blows of their fists or simple weapons.
Dimachaerus
This type of gladiator specializes in two-sword fighting.
Gallus
Gallii are gladiators that are commonly very heavy-set in armor and wielding large, heavy weapons.
Hoplomachus
Hoplomachi specialize in a mid-ranged fight with their proficiency in spears and such polearms.
Laquearius
Laquearii treat their opponents much like beasts, using a whip to either keep them at bay or snare them at close range before gutting them with a dagger or sword.
Murmillo
Murmillos are gladiators wielding a sword and shield, granting protection and power.
Retiarius
A retiarius is an exotic fighter who uses a net to snare enemies and a trident to spear them like fish.
Sagittarius
Hence the name of the archer constellation, sagittarii are expert long-range shooters.
Arena Favorite
Like swimsuit models, but bathed in blood, gladiators can elicit cheers and emotion by showing off their ripped physiques and gaining favor through displays of muscle. Starting 9th level, whenever you should use your Charisma modifier for a check, saving throw or setting a DC, you may instead substitute it with your Strength modifier.
Battle Cry
Your cry can be one of victory or one of the beginnings of battle. Whatever it is, it is a signal from a gladiator to the audience as well as to the opponent. Starting 14th level, you gain the following battle cries to use at your disposal:
All Brawn
In a way, Gladiators are like burly sportsmen. They spend a lot of time hacking and fighting away that their brains sometimes shrivel or get damaged from impacts. This is a bit irrelevant in their line of work; the cheers of the crowd drive them to fight harder and harder without thought. Starting 15th level, you -2 in Intelligence saving throws. However, on your turn you get a bonus attack on any creature within 10 feet of you.
Expert Strike
Eventually, Gladiators become masters of a weapon in their own right. Starting 18 level, when you make a successful attack with a weapon you are proficient in, you may roll a d4. The damage you deal is multiplied by the result. You may use this feature once, regaining use after you finish a short or long rest.