The problem with you is that we have to argue with someone that doesnt understand that
1 singleplayer is an entirely valid way to play the game if they're having fun
2 people that dont play often still have a brain and can compare unit stats and costs
3 the game should be fun for everyone, not just ValihrAnt and borg
Sure, why not make it more expensive than any normal champion, after all its already weaker. Very logical... And then you would have the same problem with athenian marines and spartan hoplites, as after that change they would be cheaper and more powerful than fanatics.
Iberians were famous for metalworking aswell, one of the most prominent roman sword designs was inspired by them.