Epix will launch a new version of the Mark Burnett boxing series The Contender. The network will debut a 12-episode season, which will start production this year with an anticipated debut later this year.
The series will feature 16 fighters in an elimination competition. The boxers will be divided into two teams to train, each overseen by a renowned boxing coach.
The Contender ran for four seasons, from 2005-2009.
MGM Television is producing with Paramount Television. The format is owned by the two.
“The Contender has launched the careers of many fighters, with some Contenders taking world titles–but this new iteration of the series will also showcase the heart, spirit and dramatic personal stories of these fighters as they fight in and out of the ring to realize their dreams," said Michael Wright, president of Epix. "This is not only real boxing, but real, raw human storytelling from the best unscripted television production team in the world.”
Epix is part of MGM, and Burnett is president of MGM Television and Digital.
“Boxing belongs on premium pay television and there is no better home for The Contender than Epix," said Burnett. “We will tell stories of the fighters, the families and their difficult journeys in the emotionally compelling Contender style, so that viewers get to vicariously ‘walk a mile’ in the boxers shoes."
Eric Van Wagenen is executive producer and showrunner alongside Burnett.
