Maximus’ legacy looms large in Gladiator II, but there’s a reason why his name was crossed out on the wall of the gladiator compound. Russell Crowe does not return as Maximus Decimus Meridius in the Gladiator sequel, as Paul Mescal steps into the lead role as Maximus’ son Lucius. This gives Maximus a major role to play in Gladiator 2 without physically being present. Many of the main characters have some connection to Maximus, and the familiar Roman Colosseum setting at the core gives Ridley Scott a chance to expand on his story even after his death in Gladiator‘s ending.

https://screenrant.com/why-maximus-name-was-crossed-out-on-wall-gladiator-2/