I really like this. It make sense flavor wise (whoever won the most fights impressed the sponsors) and it encourages violence.
I like that. It would be an assigned role, and they could start with nightlock.
It would be best to have 24 players, but I can edit the game like that if more or less want to play
If you don't go, then you can always kill someone who went and take their items. And I am completely fine with half the players dying day 1. It is designed to be a very quick game.
Thanks so much for your feedback, Joe!