Gladiator weapons were specialized to match different fighting styles in the arena. Key weapons included the gladius (short sword) for close combat, the trident and net for the Retiarius, the curved sica sword for the Thraex, and large shields like the scutum used by Murmillo. Other weapons included spears, daggers, and the cestus (spiked glove) for gladiatorial boxing. Each weapon added to the spectacle and strategy of gladiatorial combat.