Boxing movies have a long tradition of delivering knockout emotional punches, and Hulu's upcoming drama They Fight aims to continue that legacy with a fresh angle on redemption. Based on the 2018 documentary of the same name, the film follows an ex-con who finds purpose by coaching young fighters at a local gym. In an exclusive first look, we see Wendell Pierce and André Holland working with Anthony B. Jenkins, teaching him the ropes—and the stakes—of the sport.
The image captures a tense training moment: Pierce's character, Slim, and Holland's Walt Manigan hover over young Peanut (Jenkins), their expressions a mix of concern and determination. It's a snapshot of the film's core theme—second chances, both for the mentor and his protégés. Walt, fresh out of prison, turns to the boxing gym as his last hope, reuniting with his old mentor Slim to prepare a group of boys for the junior national tournament. Along the way, they confront their own demons, leading to a climactic bout between Peanut and his friend Quincey (Toissaint Francois Battiste).
André Holland brings his signature depth to the role of Walt, having previously shined in Moonlight, Selma, and the baseball drama 42. Wendell Pierce, beloved as Bunk Moreland in The Wire and also a Selma alum, plays the seasoned trainer. The cast also includes Samira Wiley (Emmy winner for The Handmaid's Tale) as Walt's partner Ketta, plus Mykelti Williamson, Tory J. Malone, J. Alphonse Nicholson, Tinashe Kajese-Bolden, Amanda Warren, and Andre Royo.
Director Sheldon Candis, who helmed the Common-led crime drama Luv, takes the reins for this dramatic adaptation. Documentary director Andrew Renzi co-wrote the script, ensuring a faithful yet cinematic retelling. Producers Jason Michael Berman and Ben Renzo, who worked on both Luv and the original doc, helped bridge the two projects. The film is set to premiere this summer, adding to a busy year for boxing movies—including the upcoming Giant about Prince Naseem Hamed and last year's Christy starring Sydney Sweeney.
For fans of underdog stories and character-driven sports dramas, They Fight promises a heartfelt journey. As Walt and Slim guide Peanut toward glory, the film asks whether redemption is possible when you're fighting for someone else's future. Check out the exclusive image above, and stay tuned for more updates on this inspiring tale.
