Russell Crowe Shouts Out Oilers' Devon Levi for 'Gladiator' Tribute After 1st Career NHL Shutout

Devon Levi's homage to the 2000 film Gladiator caught the attention of movie's lead star.

Following a 1-0 win over the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Edmonton Oilers goaltender told Sportsnet he touches the ice with his bare hand in part because he was inspired by watching Russell Crowe's character in Gladiator do it before battle:

Crowe gave it his personal seal of approval:

Levi is off to a strong start in the 2026-27 NHL season. He has a .906 save percentage and a 2.48 goals-against average, both of which are on pace to be career highs.

Saturday's victory was his first career shutout.