A Roman merchant who sold fake jewels was punished with a fake gladiator match.

The reign of Roman Emperor Gallienus lasted from 253 to 268. His reign took place during a time when the Roman Empire was in a great crisis. Historians say he didn't handle the crisis well, and as a result, much of the empire seceded.

During his reign and for a good portion of time before and after, there was a popular hypogeum in use during the Coliseum’s games. A hypogeum is essentially a series of underground tunnels that were used to keep audiences entertained and surprised by not being able to see what was coming next. 

Sometimes, it was used for comedic effect, as was the case with one merchant. This merchant had sold a fake, glass made jewel to the empress, and Gallienus decreed his punishment was to face a ferocious lion in the arena. 

When he was prepared to face certain death, a chicken walked out instead of a lion (the audience absolutely loved it). Gallienus had his herald proclaim that “He practiced deceit and then had it practiced on him.” The merchant’s punishment then was just being sent home.

(Source)