FIGHTVILLE Tickets

MMA, or mixed martial arts, is a sport that has taken the world by storm in recent years. It combines various forms of martial arts including boxing, wrestling, kickboxing, and jiu-jitsu into one cohesive fighting style. And with its rise in popularity has come a surge in MMA-related media, from documentaries to movies.

One such documentary is "Fightville". Directed by Michael Tucker and Petra Epperlein, the film follows two aspiring MMA fighters - Dustin Poirier and Albert Stainback - as they navigate the grueling world of professional fighting in the small town of Lafayette, Louisiana.

At its core, "Fightville" is not just about MMA; it's about the struggles and sacrifices that come with chasing a dream. Through intimate interviews with Poirier, Stainback, and their coaches, we see the emotional toll that training and fighting takes on them. We also witness the financial difficulties that come with trying to make it as a professional fighter, from scraping together enough money to pay for training camps to making weight.

But perhaps most fascinatingly, "Fightville" gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the business side of MMA. The film explores the role of fight promoters and managers, and how they can make or break a fighter's career. It also delves into the politics of the sport, touching on issues like fighter pay and unionization.

Of course, there's plenty of action in "Fightville" as well. The film features several nail-biting fights, with Poirier and Stainback putting it all on the line in the cage. But what sets these fights apart from your typical MMA bout is the personal investment we have in the fighters. By getting to know them outside of the cage, we care about their success on a deeper level.

Overall, "Fightville" is a great watch for any MMA fan, but it's also an engaging piece of storytelling for anyone interested in the pursuit of a dream. It's an honest and unflinching look at the realities of professional fighting, and it will leave you with a newfound respect for the athletes who put it all on the line.