The fighters were always forced to fight to the death. They weren't allowed to spare their enemies and even when they were wounded to the point of no chance, they weren't allowed to surrender.
They lived lives no different than prisoners. They were kept under strict control and the only time they could interact with outsiders was when they were out fighting.
But it wasn't all hopeless for them. They could still amass some fame from their fights if they were good enough and if one could somehow win 50 matches, they were allowed their freedom.
