BCH 88, p. 186

The epitaph of a boxer, excavated at Olympia.

Agathos Daimon alias ‘Camel’, an Alexandrian, boxer, victor in Nemea. He died here in the stadion in the fight after promising Zeus either victory or death. Aged 35. Farewell.

Greek

Agathos Daimon “the good spirit" is the name of a serpent god, who was the protector of Alexandria. It is also a typical personal name in Egypt.
The second name “Camel" is the nickname with which this boxer was known to the public. It suggest strength, endurance, but also heaviness.
Agathos Daimon had won at Nemea, but he died at Olympia. It is suggested that he preferred to die fighting rather than to give up. He was 35 years old and therefore no longer in his prime.

© KU Leuven, 2012