Thraex

The thraex or Thracian was a type of Roman gladiator, armed in the Thracian style with small rectangular shield called a "parmula" (about 60 x 65 cm) and a very short sword with a slightly curved blade called a "sica" (not unlike a small version of the Dacian falx), with the intention of maiming an opponent's unarmoured back. His other armour included armoured greaves (necessitated by the smallness of the shield), a protector for his sword arm and shoulder, a protective belt above a loin cloth, and a helmet with a side plume, visor and high crest.

He and the hoplomachus, with his Greek equipment, were usually pitted against the murmillo, armed like a legionary, mimicking the opposition between Roman soldiers and their various non-Italian enemies.

References

* [http://www.britishmuseum.org/explore/online_tours/rome/gladiators/bronze_figurine_of_a_gladiator.aspx Bronze figurine of a gladiator - British Museum]
* [http://www.britishmuseum.org/explore/highlights/highlight_objects/gr/t/terracotta_figurine_of_2_gladi.aspx Terracotta figurine of 2 gladiators - British Museum]
*E. Köhne and C. Ewigleben (eds.). "Gladiators and Caesars: The Power of Spectacle in Ancient Rome". London: The British Museum Press, 2000.