HBO Unveils Three New Episodes of ‘State of Play’

HBO Sports announced Thursday that its critically-acclaimed series “State of Play” will return with three new episodes later this month. The innovative topical series will first bring sports fans “Inherent Violence,” followed by “Fighting Chance” and then “Game of Borders.”

Executive producers Peter Berg and Matthew Goldenberg have teamed up once again for the trio of new episodes of State of Play, which is presented by Film 45 and HBO Sports. State of Play addresses complex themes in the world of sports and explores their relationships to larger society. Each episodic documentary is 30 minutes and spotlights a topic or person that has made an indelible impact on contemporary sports.

“HBO continues to be a great home for documentaries and partner for our projects,” stated Berg. “We love collaborating with them and appreciate their dedication to the series.”

With “Inherent Violence,” Berg and Goldberg explore the theme of how combat sports have transcended time and how popular they remain today. Whether it’s boxing or mixed martial arts, fans clamor for the violence that makes the combat arts so compelling. But the question is whether violence is an inherent part of sports or if violence is an inherent part of the human race. The episode chronicles a 33-year-old American MMA fighter who trains his 10-year-old son to fight and a 47-year-old retired Calcio Storico player who has groomed his son to partake in a violent form of soccer where head-butting, punching, choking and elbowing are allowed.

In the case of, “Fighting Chance,” professional boxer Raymundo Beltran, who is a Mexican immigrant chasing his dream of becoming a world champion, is chronicled. “Sugar Ray” is a sparring partner for Manny Pacquiao and has carved out a solid career for himself, though he has yet to capture world title after coming up short three times. The episode digs deep into the life of a fringe contender and what it takes to hopefully one day be crowned a champion. Is it just skill? Or does a fighter need to play the corrupt, political game behind the scenes?

Finally, “Game of Borders” focuses on the Palestine national football team and the life-and-death struggles they endure while trying to earn a living while playing the global game in the Middle East.

“Inherent Violence” debuts Tues., Dec. 13 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. “Fighting Chance” debuts at the same time on Dec., followed by Game of Borders at the same time on Dec. 15.