help with ascendancy

hi guys. i have one question about my ascendancy classes.
i choosed gladiator, after that "gratuitous violence"--> "blood in the Eyes". after 3 lab choosed "painforged" and i start to my doubts: what more useful for me? up or donw?
versalite combatant or violent retaliation?
Someone has experience of use this talent in battle?
when i was young and beautiful i always choose combatant, but now i`m not sure.
p.s. sorry for my English