Champion for Ordeals

In trials by combat or judicial duels , frequently held in England and on the continent prior to the 14th century, these champions were professional fighters hired on the sly to champion a tenant unable to defend himself. Technically such championing was illegal, but difficult to prove. The deterrence came from the Continental penalty that the losing champion lost his hand, since in order to take to the lists they had to swear to the charge, and in losing they were forsworn.