Exsochuos

Exsochuos was likely a gladiator during the Roman era, identifiable through a single cognomen of Greek origin, Ἔξοχος, meaning "outstanding" or "prominent." This name is referenced in W. Pape-G. Benseler’s dictionary of Greek proper names and by Solin in his work on Greek personal names. The usage of a singular Greek cognomen strongly suggests that Exsochuos was a slave, as was common for individuals in his position, separated from the tradition of the Roman tria nomina given to citizens.

Exsochuos’s memory is commemorated by his peers, Cimber and Pietas, who described him as a fellow charioteer (essedarius) and a comrade worthy of recognition (bene merenti), indicating his esteem within his circle. This tribute, found in an inscription, signifies that while gladiators like Exsochuos might not have received public honors, they were respected and remembered by their immediate community. The inscription’s discovery in a mithraeum suggests that Exsochuos and his companions were also likely initiates or followers of the Mithraic mysteries, a religion that was popular in the Roman army and among certain social strata of the Empire.