Juba (Gladiator)

Juba was a former Nubian hunter who became a gladiator and formed a close bond with Maximus Decimus Meridius, being the first gladiator to offer him friendship after tending to his wounds. It is suggested that Juba was captured and sold into slavery, leaving behind his wife and child. Although his handler claimed he was from a salt mine in Carthage when he was being inspected by Proximo, Juba himself stated that his trade was that of a hunter.

Names	Juba
Gender	Male
Race	Human
Occupation	Gladiator, Slave, Hunter, Salt Miner
Origin	Gladiator (May 1, 2000)
Alignment	Good
Age	Early 40s
Created By	David Franzoni, John Logan, William Nicholson, Ridley Scott
Height	1.87 m 6ft 2in
Weight	80kg (176 lbs)

Appearance

Juba is a tall, athletic man with a muscular build, reflecting his skills as both a hunter and a gladiator. He has dark skin, characteristic of his Nubian heritage, and his features are sharp and dignified. His hair is kept short, and his face often carries a solemn expression, particularly during moments of reflection on his past. Juba's attire as a gladiator includes traditional gladiatorial armor, such as a simple tunic and sandals, as well as a helmet when necessary. His battle-worn physique, however, is what stands out most—his scars tell the story of his strength and survival through countless battles.

Personality

Juba is a loyal and honorable man, deeply empathetic and respectful of the bonds he forms. His kindness and compassion are evident, particularly in his treatment of Maximus after he cares for his wounds, and in his respectful burial of Maximus’s belongings after his death. He is a man of integrity, always putting the well-being of others before himself, as seen when he risks his life for Maximus’s freedom. Juba is also deeply attached to his family, especially his wife and child, which is a driving force behind his determination to survive and return to them. Despite his circumstances as a slave and gladiator, Juba maintains a sense of hope and perseverance, believing in the possibility of a life beyond the arena. His calm demeanor and strong moral compass make him a dependable and trusted friend to Maximus, with whom he shares a bond of brotherhood.

Biography

Juba’s first fight as a gladiator saw him chained alongside Maximus, where they emerged victorious in battle. Their alliance grew stronger as they continued their journey together, with Juba remaining fiercely loyal to Maximus throughout their trials. He participated in a revolt intended to distract the guards and aid Maximus’s escape, though the plan failed. Maximus was captured and forced to face his nemesis, Emperor Commodus. Despite defeating Commodus, Maximus succumbed to his injuries.

Before his death, Maximus expressed his final wish for Juba’s freedom, which was honored. After Maximus’s passing, Juba respectfully buried his friend’s possessions in the arena, honoring him in silence. "And now we are free," Juba declared, vowing that one day they would meet again, but not yet. With that, he left Rome, seeking to reunite with his long-lost wife and child.

Powers and Statistics

Tier: 9-C, higher with weapons

Powers and Abilities: Peak Human strength, Expert hand-to-hand combatant, Melee and firearms proficiency, Stealth Mastery, expert at survival skills

Attack Potency: Street level (Comparable to Maximus physically, who fought off a tiger with his shield.), higher with weapons (Juba kicked off a Gladiator and then finished him off with his helmet. Fought on par with a Roman soldier)

Speed: Peak Human combat speed, Superhuman reactions

Lifting Strength: Above Average Human

Striking Strength: Street level

Durability: Street level physically, higher with shields

Stamina: Superhuman (Can run and fight for long periods)

Range: Standard Melee Range, Extended Melee Range with weapons

Standard Equipment: Swords, shield, helmet

Intelligence: Above Average (Expert hunter and combatant)

Weaknesses: None notable