Fighting to the death is rarely, if ever, a smart course of action.

We prefer a strongly worded email. Or, if necessary, a stern admonishing in person.

Once the swords and shields come out, that's usually a sign that things have gone seriously awry. 

But you can still court this exact experience and fight someone Gladiator-style in the Colosseum.

Yes, in Rome.

It's part of the new Airbnb experience tied to Gladiator II, where for the first time in nearly 2,000 years, the Colosseum will returns to its original purpose as a venue for performances and combat. Whether for fun or to settle a grudge, you can be one of those brave warriors to fight inside the historic arena. 

It's all going down May 7-8, 2025. But to get there, you first have to reserve the experience on Airbnb. Booking goes live November 27 at 6:00 AM PT and stays up through December 9 at 11:59 PM PT. It costs $0, but you will have to get yourself to Rome.

Each experience has a capacity for up to 16 guests each (eight guests and their +1). A patron will meet you after sunset and lead you into the Colosseum. You'll descend into the underground chambers to don your preferred armor and prepare for battle. Get your strength up via a spread of traditional snacks, like grapes, pomegranates, almonds and walnuts (you're a gladiator, not an emperor), and watch seasoned fighters strike sword against shield as you hopefully glean a few pointers from the pros.

After some light training, you'll face off against your fellow warriors, and engage in battle until only one gladiator remains.

Or until the referee blows the whistle for a water break.