Germanicus

The stadium in Smyrna was full of shouting people. All around there was could be heard the sound of laughing, as if today was a day of joy. In the middle stood a young man; a young man in his prime of life; a young man who still had so much yet to live for; a young man whose whole life would be ended in a few short minutes. All he must do to save his life is to utter a simple sentence, nay, simply a few small words, and he would go free. Around him was heard a new sound, a creaking of the heavy doors which has thus far withheld the angry beasts. The crowd was pleased. Ah, here was a frightened young Christian. They savored the death of fearful victims. The lions slowly advanced upon him, crouching ready to pounce. For a moment he stood still, as though he was afraid, but the Holy Spirit urged him on, dispelling all his fear of death, for he knew he was God's child and he would see the face of Christ, not because of his merit, but because Christ had suffered and died for him, the young man boldly encouraged the lions, which soon had slaughtered him. When the crowd saw this they were furious. Enraged by the courage that Christ had given the young man, the crowed began calling out for the bishop of Smyrna to be found and burned. And so ensued the death of Polycarp.

Anyways, that was one of the reasons for Polycarp's martyrdom.