Ringside

Directed by Russ Parr

With Stéphen Banks, Julissa Bermudez, Christie Black, Raney Branch and Ashanna Bri

Synopsis: Jaxon is a fast-rising star in the tough world of professional boxing whose “street cred” and perceived worthiness to challenge his upcoming opponent – the current champion – are under fire due to his middle class upbringing and advanced education. As he trains for the title fight, the trash-talking, steroid-taking champ Spencer “Timber” Collier played by Allen Maldonado (“Straight Outta Compton,” “Black-ish”) does everything he can to take Jaxon off his game. The stakes are high and family drama, thirsty groupies, and a manager with a serious gambling problem are all vying for Jaxon’s attention, making it difficult for him to stay focused on the task at hand – winning the belt. In the midst of being pushed to the limit both physically and mentally, Jaxon meets a beautiful photographer Endira (Raney Branch; “The Originals,” “Grey’s Anatomy”) who captures his heart while hiding a devastating secret.