Sky Documentaries presents an impressive slate of combat sport programming this summer, delving into the fascinating and often misunderstood world of Mixed Martial Arts. Throughout June to September, the channel dissects the narrative surrounding this growing sport through an impressive line-up of authentic and eye-opening documentaries.
The showcase feature; from Bafta-award winning Century Films, The Good Fight Club follows the fortunes of a group of young Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) athletes fighting to make it from their South London gym to the glittering home of MMA: Las Vegas.
One of the fastest growing sports in the world, MMA is also one of the most lucrative, with its stars earning some of the highest salaries in sports - and the fighters of Team Underground want in on the action.
Each has a different reason for coming to the cage - Shanelle hopes to create a better life for her 5 siblings, for Aidan, fighting has helped him recover from anorexia, and Thomas Paull dreams of being a role model for the deaf community. “Being deaf is definitely my advantage, I’m not distracted by my opponent’s fans cheering him on, or anyone booing me so I focus solely on the fight and nothing else.
“Because I’ve been deaf since birth, I don’t know what it’s like for other fighters, but noise has to be a factor. My other senses are heightened - and I can see the tiniest movement before someone pulls the trigger. I see the smoke that comes out of the gun and I rely on that.” - Thomas Paull, as quoted in The Sun.
This dynamic and determined group have found camaraderie in the gym, but once they step into the cage, they leave their team behind and must face the ultimate battle alone.
The Good Fight Club is directed by Jack Retallack and Liz Biggs, with executive producer Brian Hill. Produced by Century Films in association with Sky Studios.
