First look: New ‘Spartacus’ star Liam McIntyre in action — EXCLUSIVE PHOTOS

Big muscles. Big swords. Big cod piece. Starz’ new Spartacus, Liam McIntyre, is taking to the sands and streets of Ancient Rome and EW has your first look at the escaped rebel gladiator in action. Above and below we see McIntyre crossing swords with Centurions in two fight scene photos, and then standing there just looking badass in another (Sparty basically looks like he’s saying: Hey, you, you want some of this? I mean the sword!). McIntyre will be at Comic-Con next week for the show’s panel. The series will return as Spartacus: Vengeance next January and– You’re still reading the text? Really? Here are the pics: