Forged in Fire, a US show that asks bladesmiths to construct and then test historical blades, did a show on the Greek xiphos, the Bronze Age shortsword of the phalanx. Certainly this isn't a battle test, but it's a good approximation. In past episodes with other blades, the show has used ballistic dummies, suspended hog carcasses, and other media to test blade sharpness, durability, and handling. Link below for those interested.