Film analysis: Five great boxing movies to watch before Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul bout
Mike Tyson will step into the ring with Jake Paul this weekend, with the veteran boxer’s match-up with one of the world’s most prominent YouTubers straight out of a Hollywood script.
The history of cinema is littered full of incredible boxing movies, no doubt serving as inspiration for Paul and Tyson ahead of their much-talked-about scrap.
Before Netflix delivers the boxing event of the year, Film News Blitz’s David Bason shares his top five boxing films.
5. One Punch: The Eddie Copeland Story
One Punch offers a unique and intimate perspective.
The film follows Eddie Copeland, a promising boxer in the 1970s who, at one point, was compared to Muhammad Ali.
However, a career-ending injury at age 24 brought his ambitions to an abrupt halt.
This documentary captures Copeland reflecting on the fight that ended his career, as well as his journey coaching his daughter, Stacey, as she steps into the ring herself.
It’s a lesser-known film but highly recommended.
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4. The Fighter
Based on the real-life story of Micky Ward, The Fighter explores his struggle to emerge from the shadow of his troubled half-brother, Dicky Eklund.
This film provides both a compelling look into Ward’s boxing career and an intense family drama.
Mark Wahlberg’s portrayal of Ward solidifies this movie as a top pick for boxing enthusiasts.
3. Southpaw
Southpaw delivers an intense story of redemption, following Billy Hope, the reigning light heavyweight champion.
After his wife’s tragic death, Hope loses nearly everything, including his career and custody of his daughter.
The film follows his journey to rebuild his life and regain his place in boxing.
Jake Gyllenhaal’s performance as Hope earned Southpaw rave reviews and solidified it as a modern boxing classic.
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2. Creed
Creed, released in 2015, was the first spin-off of the iconic Rocky series, and it didn’t disappoint.
Michael B. Jordan stars as Adonis Johnson, the son of Apollo Creed, who died in Rocky IV.
Determined to follow in his father’s footsteps, Johnson seeks out Rocky Balboa, who eventually agrees to train him.
While all three Creed films are excellent, the first instalment is a standout and a must-watch for sports fans.
1. Rocky
Rocky is a timeless classic, Oscar winner for Best Picture and the film that launched one of cinema’s most beloved franchises.
Sylvester Stallone brings to life the story of small-time boxer Rocky Balboa.
When he’s given the chance to fight the world heavyweight champion, Apollo Creed, Balboa faces an uphill battle, determined to prove his worth.
The original Rocky film remains an inspiring starting point for the series and continues to captivate audiences.
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