Natasha Jonas and Chris Eubank Jr feature in the series that explores the lives of fighters.
New Delhi, India Jul 2, 2026 ALN: Paddy Pimblett, Claressa Shields, and Chris Eubank Jr have all starred in episodes of BBC's 'Born to Brawl.'
The series follows boxers and MMA fighters at crucial times in their careers, telling their stories in their own words and giving the audience a rare glimpse into what it means, and takes, to be a fighter. 'Born to Brawl' is not just a s documentary; it is an exploration of personal resilience, cultural backgrounds, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the face of adversity. Each episode highlights the unique journeys of these athletes, providing insights into their motivations, struggles, and triumphs.
The show captures the essence of what it means to be a fighter, not only through the lens of physical combat but also by delving into the emotional and psychological battles that these athletes face. The series not only showcases their athletic prowess but also their personal stories, which often include themes of hardship, determination, and the relentless pursuit of dreams.
You can watch every episode of the series below.
Cindy Ngamba brings BBC into her life in Bolton and how she beat all the odds to win an Olympic medal. Ngamba's story is one of resilience and determination, having arrived in the UK as a refugee. Her journey from fleeing her home country to standing on the Olympic podium is a testament to her hard work and dedication. In a world where many athletes have the luxury of a stable upbringing, Ngamba's narrative emphasizes the sacrifices and struggles that often go unnoticed in the world of s.
From refugee to Olympian
Undisputed middleweight world champion Claressa Shields opens up about her harrowing journey to the top. Shields, who has become a prominent figure in women's , discusses the challenges she faced growing up in Flint, Michigan, a city often associated with economic hardship and social challenges. Her story is one of overcoming adversity, and she has used her platform to advocate for women's rights and social justice, making her not just a champion in the ring but also a role model outside of it.
Don't mess with Claressa - a fighter as hard as Flint
Middleweight Chris Eubank Jr tells his story of being born into royalty and following in his father's footsteps. Eubank Jr. comes from a lineage of greatness, being the son of former world champion Chris Eubank Sr. His journey illustrates the pressure of living up to a legendary name while carving out his own identity in the . The challenges of expectation and the quest for personal achievement are central themes in his narrative.
'Miss GB' Natasha Jonas details her rise, including what it took to come back and win three world titles at 37. Jonas's journey reflects the evolving landscape of women's , where female fighters are gaining recognition and respect. Her story emphasizes the importance of perseverance and the belief that age is just a number in the pursuit of athletic success.
Meet Dennis McCann, the next traveller superstar and the man Tyson Fury has picked to emulate his success. McCann, who comes from a family with a rich heritage, discusses the unique challenges faced by fighters from the travelling community. His story is one of ambition and the desire to break barriers, showcasing the importance of cultural identity in s.
Boxer Savannah Marshall reveals how getting over Floyd Mayweather's "broken promises", conquering social anxiety, and working with Peter Fury prepared her for a historic women's fight against long-term rival Shields. Marshall's narrative is not only about her achievements in the ring but also about her mental health journey and the importance of support systems in overcoming personal obstacles.
Aadam and Sami Hamed - whose father is former world champion 'Prince' Naseem Hamed - are turning professional with no amateur record, so can they follow in their dad's footsteps? The Hamed brothers face the unique challenge of living up to the legacy of their father while navigating their own paths in professional . Their story raises questions about the pressures of legacy and the expectations placed on the next generation of athletes.
Boxer Ricky Gorman, a relative of world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, tells the story of his path into and his pride as part of the travelling community, including his uncle, bareknuckle legend and 'King of the Gypsies', Bartley Gorman. Gorman's narrative highlights the rich cultural history of within the travelling community and the importance of family and heritage in shaping an athlete's identity.
Shannon Courtenay struggled with addiction issues in her younger years until finding her way into , and after only eight professional fights, became the WBA bantamweight champion. Her journey serves as an inspiration for many, illustrating how s can be a powerful tool for recovery and personal transformation. Courtenay's story emphasizes that the road to success is often paved with struggles and setbacks.
Follow former world champion Josh Warrington's journey in his hometown of Leeds as he prepares for his "make-or-break" fight against Leigh Wood. Warrington's narrative is a reflection of the highs and lows of a professional athlete's career, showcasing the emotional toll of competition and the importance of community support. His story resonates with fans who understand the dedication required to compete at the highest levels.
UFC fighter Muhammad Mokaev shares his story of fleeing Dagestan as a boy with his father, the challenges of growing up as a refugee in the UK, and finding a love of mixed martial arts. Mokaev's journey emphasizes the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of s. His narrative serves as a reminder of the diverse backgrounds from which athletes come and the common thread of determination that unites them.
Refugee on course to become youngest UFC champion
British heavyweight fighter and UFC interim champion Tom Aspinall tells how he went from having £20 in the bank to being a UFC headliner. Aspinall's story is one of grit and determination, illustrating the financial and personal sacrifices made by many athletes in pursuit of their dreams. His rise in the UFC highlights the unpredictable nature of s and the potential for success that exists for those willing to work hard and persevere.
Straight from winning title, I did the school run
Britain's Paddy 'The Baddy' Pimblett tells his story before his UFC debut against Luigi Vendramini in Las Vegas - after turning down the UFC twice in his younger years. Pimblett's journey showcases the importance of timing and self-belief in an athlete's career. His candid reflections on his decision-making process reveal the complexities of navigating the professional s landscape.
Leah McCourt tells her story of growing up in Belfast, becoming a single mother at 18, and fighting her way to become the first female to headline a Bellator Europe event. McCourt's narrative combines themes of motherhood, struggle, and triumph, illustrating the multifaceted nature of an athlete's life. Her story serves as an inspiration for many, particularly women, who aspire to break barriers in male-dominated s.
In conclusion, 'Born to Brawl' is more than just a series about fighting; it is a collection of powerful narratives that highlight the resilience, determination, and passion of athletes from diverse backgrounds. Each episode serves as a reminder that behind every fighter is a story of struggle, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. The series not only entertains but also educates viewers about the complexities of the lives of those who dedicate themselves to the , making it a must-watch for fans of combat s and storytelling alike.
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