Arena death match: storyboard development

Working on my portfolio, I'm trying to squeeze in as much 'fun stuff' (often called nerd stuff) into it as possible.
While brushing off the cobwebs of the ol' storyboarding, I started working on a short story & battle between two gladiators. Far from the glory of ancient Rome, these two warriors are in a desolate world and fight for their lives.


In this corner, the Knight! (and squire on the right).
I wanted the Knight to look not only valiant, but have a durable feel to him. Someone who could take beating and get right back up and give as good as he got.

In this corner, the Orc!

Savage and bloodthirsty, the orc is the juxtaposition of the knight. Where as the knight stands firm with his shield and sword, the orc charges recklessly into the fray and just smashes thing till he's in a right proper frenzy.

In fantasy, orcs usually have very little armor. I wanted this orc to have a gladiatorial feel to him, like a murmillo. I was trying to convey a sort of protection in his off arm while showing some savagery in the design. No way this bad boy would have the skill to work / forge metal, so tusks and leather. Lots of tusks and big pointy things.

I'm still up in the air about his weapon. On one hand, a huge two handed axe is a great feel, on the other hand, two axes make for a crazy amount of attacks raining down.
what are your thoughts? Which would fit the situation better?

Here's the arena where they'll fight.

draft 1:

Draft 2




Now, to plot the fight.