Will Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg duel in Rome’s Colosseum?

If the two billionaires decide to duke it out there, it will be a true return to the original purposes of the ancient arena

So, it’s already in the air. The heavily promoted “will they, won’t they” duel between Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg has taken a new step towards becoming more official, after none other than Italy’s government decided to intervene by inviting the two billionaires to fight right in the Colosseum.

According to TMZ, a senior official, referred to as the country’s culture minister has reached out to Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, to pitch the idea. In turn, Mr Zuckerberg relayed that message to Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) President Dana White, who in turn contacted the Italian Ministry.

It’s a lot of hearsay, but none other than one of the two parties directly concerned – Elon Musk himself – tweeted: “Some chance fight happens in Colosseum” followed by a video from the comedy film Life of Brian, featuring a gladiator scene.

The revival of gladiator spectacle?

The exhibition fight between the two men has been gathering up steam and hype and the world isn’t entirely sure why or whether it will happen at all. Reportedly, Elon Musk’s mom is heavily against it. But given its unusual nature, featuring two of the most prominent billionaires and cultural figures of our day would be certain to pique the world’s attention.

As for the Colosseum playing the venue for this spectacle would be a revival of function, indeed. We did some research and found out that the last gladiator fight to take place there was in AD 404, or more than 16 centuries ago. The ascendance of Christianity dampened the pagan spirit of the games in the arena.

In more recent times, the forum has been used as a stage for a concert. Sir Paul McCartney performed inside it in 2003 for an exclusive charity show for 400 people. Another Sir – Elton John – also performed there but outside the walls.

Back in its glory days, the Colosseum could fit 50,000 people. These days, however, due to its partially ruined interior it could only fit several hundred enthusiasts to see the unique duel. If it happens, at all.