Florentine Football: The Gladiator Sport that Still Exists in Italy

Calcio storico fiorentino (historical Florentine football) is an early form of football that originated in 16th-century Italy. It takes a more gladiator-minded feel when it comes to traditional football and rugby. Once widely played, the sport is thought to have started in the Piazza Santa Croce in Florence and the rules have not changed since 16th century when it was started.

The goal of the game is to get the ball across the field into the opposing team's goal. But the catch is anything goes. Meaning, punching, kicking, choking, etc. Defenders and players on the offensive square off with each other, throwing punches and kicks in order to pin their opponent to the ground. Once pinned, they stay down until the ball is either scored or lost to the other team.

Imagine a sport that combines rugby, football, and kickboxing... Players claim they standoff to establish dominance, fight for their family history, and win in honor of their neighborhood.