Parents' Guide to

The Fighters

By Melissa Camacho, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 14+

Boxing reality is edgy but shows softer side of sport, too.

TV Discovery Channel Reality TV 2014
The Fighters Poster Image

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What's the Story?

THE FIGHTERS is a reality series featuring trainers and amateur boxers participating in weekly boxing matches in Boston's South End. Veteran "Southie" Peter Welch, a boxer and gym owner, is revitalizing South Boston's boxing culture by arranging and promoting weekly bouts with amateur boxers representing various gyms around the area. Each week Welch and other former Southie boxers-turned-trainers like Joe Ricciardi, Joe Ennis, Tim Stanton, and Mark Deluca, choose their top amateur fighters to represent their gym in a match. After a week of tough training, the fighters go head to head in three rounds in the ring at Welch's gym. Throughout the process, the young boxers share some of their own personal struggles, and reflect on the role boxing plays in their lives.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

The Fighters offers a surprisingly sensitive look at the tough world of the Southie boxing culture, which has been credited in the past with producing outstanding professional boxers, and for providing stability to young men living in South Boston's rough neighborhoods. It offers some insight into what makes a strong boxer, and reveals some of the struggles today's young fighters are facing, like poverty, homelessness, and addiction, while trying to commit to the sport.

Granted, some of the conversations (and arguments) between the trainers seem contrived. But most of the young fighters appear honest in their desire to commit to the sport, and to use it to somehow improve their circumstances. Meanwhile, the trainers appear earnest in their desire to help the young men in their community. Boxing fans will certainly be drawn to it, but the overall show has enough heart to appeal to larger audiences.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about sports. What are some of the ways that participating in a sport can help kids and young adults? Are their any drawbacks to getting involved with athletics? What is this show's message about sports?

  • What are some of the stereotypes that exist about athletes in the media? Does this show perpetuate these stereotypes or diffuse them?

TV Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

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