A RETIRED boxer has become a warrior once more - after buying a sword seen by millions of people in the blockbuster movie Gladiator.

Alek Penarski is a huge fan of the film starring Russell Crowe.

And when he was told the sword - one of five used in the film - was available to buy, he made it his goal.

It took him 18 months to secure the deal, paying a four-figure sum.

But Alek, aged 48, says it is worth every penny. He said: "The sword is absolutely magnificent. I have a friend who works in the movie industry and he told me the sword might be available.

"It took me 18 months to get it and I paid a whacking four-figure sum for it.

"It came with a certificate to prove it is genuine. Russell Crowe used it in the scenes in the training school. It is amazing to see it on the DVD."

Alek was a British light-heavyweight champion and is obsessed with all things Roman.

He has an extensive collection of authenticated treasures from the box-office smash such as Crowe's breast plate and body armour which he bought at auction 18 months ago.

He said: "I've even had a £900 leather tunic - identical to Russell Crowe's - made for me.

"My collection of things is worth about £12,000. And I have a six foot cardboard cut out of him. I just love everything Roman, I am crazy about it."

Such is Alek's love of ancient Rome and centurions, he even went on a recreation of a battle march along Hadrian's Wall with friends last month.

The personal trainer, who lives with wife Ursula in Vale Coppice, Horwich, said: "The Romans gave us everything from underfloor heating to roads. If I had one wish it would be go back in time and live as a Roman for a day - or if I was really lucky, a month.

"I met Russell Crowe when he came over for the last fight involving boxer Ricky Hatton. He was a very nice man, very down to earth and made time for fans who were watching the fight."