https://www.theguardian.com/science/2023/mar/04/evidence-reveals-gladiators-fought-in-roman-britain
QuoteNew tests prove the Colchester Vase was made of local clay around AD 160-200 and that an inscription bearing the names of two featured gladiators was cut into the clay before firing, rather than afterwards, as previously assumed. It was therefore an intrinsic part of the vessel's original design rather than a later addition to a generic arena representation.
That means the vase was the ultimate in sports memorabilia, perhaps commissioned by a gladiator trainer or owner, or someone else involved with such contests.