Juba was a former Nubian hunter that became a gladiator and was Maximus’ first friend after caring for his wounds. It was implied that he was captured and sold into slavery, leaving behind his wife and child. Though his handler said that he was from a salt mine in Carthage as he was being inspected by Próximo, he stated that his trade was a hunter.
Upon his first fight as a gladiator, he is chained to Maximus where they triumph in the battle. He continues his journey alongside Maximus where he remains loyal to his friend throughout all of the conflicts that surround them. He takes part in the revolt that was supposed to be a ploy to distract the guards as Maximus escapes but the plan fails. Having survived that, he is then released from slavery as it was one of Maximus’ final wishes before dying.