What was life really like for Roman gladiators?

The answer

Contrary to Hollywood portrayals, most gladiatorial combats did not end in death - trained gladiators were expensive investments, and fights typically ended when one combatant yielded. Gladiators received medical care, specialized diets heavy in barley and beans for extra body fat (which served as armor against cuts), and some became celebrities with devoted fans and even endorsement deals. While some were enslaved prisoners, others were volunteers drawn by the promise of fame and prize money.