What our first season will look like...
With Open Guard, we've unlocked a unique avenue for connecting with people, granting us the ability to tackle the challenges and issues of modern society in a way that resonates with a broad audience. This forms the cornerstone of our approach during the pre-production research phase, as we strive to deliver the most inspiring and uplifting content in each episode. Here are some of the themes we've chosen for the inaugural season of Open Guard:
Immigration
The Mexico-US border serves as a pivotal entry point for both legal and illegal migrants from all corners of the globe who aspire to reach the United States. Many undertake arduous journeys spanning months, enduring harrowing conditions and making profound sacrifices, all in pursuit of the promise of a better future. Along this border, there exist those who remain stranded on one side and those who successfully navigate their way through. In Open Guard, we engage in conversations with athletes hailing from both sides of this complex and multifaceted divide. Through their experiences and stories, we aim to shed light on the intricate realities surrounding migration and its impact on individuals and communities.
Drug addiction
Drug addiction has inflicted a devastating toll, claiming countless lives not only in the United States but across the globe. In the face of this profound tragedy, numerous individuals and organizations are dedicated to confronting this crisis head-on to save precious lives. Among them are those who choose to battle their addiction within the confines of the boxing ring, engaging in a fight not only against their own demons but also striving to become beacons of hope for others in the process. Open Guard delves into the stories of these resilient individuals, exploring their personal struggles and their courageous journey towards recovery, resilience, and redemption. Through their experiences, we aim to highlight the profound impact of addiction and the remarkable resilience of the human spirit.
Religion and culture
Fighters are a vibrant tapestry of diverse traditions, languages, and religions. What sets Open Guard apart is our ability to immerse ourselves in this rich tapestry, drawing inspiration from its myriad of flavors and colors. Our show is a platform for travel and exploration, a vehicle for breaking down the boundaries—both physical and moral—that separate us. Through our journey, we seek to promote unity, peace, and understanding, all while delivering positive and inspiring messages. This mission is at the heart of Open Guard, driving us to showcase the power of human connection, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of a brighter, shared future.
Behind the cage, reality of the fight industry
In the fight industry, the spotlight often shines brightly on the glitz and glamour of show business—spectacular events, stunning visuals, and celebrity fighters reaping substantial rewards. However, what often remains hidden from view are the unsung heroes laboring in the shadows to ensure the show goes on. These dedicated individuals work tirelessly behind the scenes, devoting their expertise, sweat, and sometimes even blood and tears to make the magic happen. Open Guard is here to peel back the curtain and reveal the untold stories of these unsung champions, shedding light on the often-overlooked backbone of the fight industry. Join us as we explore the heart and soul of this world, where the real heroes often wear the humblest of masks.
Diversity
There's no place quite like a boxing gym. It serves as a microcosm of the city it resides in, a melting pot where you'll find police officers, criminals, lawyers, and stay-at-home moms all training side by side. In the boxing gym, the usual divisions of color, race, religion, and socio-economic status simply fade away. It's a remarkable space where the shared pursuit of discipline, determination, and self-improvement unites individuals from all walks of life. Open Guard celebrates this unique and inclusive environment, where the common bond of boxing transcends societal barriers, fostering a sense of unity and belonging that is truly exceptional.
Sport in the prison systen
In a forthcoming episode of Open Guard, we'll venture into the lives of individuals who have lost everything and found themselves locked away, often forgotten by society. Confined within prison cells with meager possessions, limited intimacy, and restricted hygiene, they face the harsh realities of incarceration.
In this episode, we aim to challenge the common misconception that jails are exclusively inhabited by heinous criminals. We explore the intricate and often overlooked aspects of life behind bars, questioning the severity of punishment, irrespective of the nature of the crime.
For some of these incarcerated individuals, sports become a lifeline, offering a way to rediscover a sense of purpose and vitality within the confines of prison.
Join us as we shed light on their stories, confront societal biases, and initiate conversations about the challenges of incarceration, highlighting the enduring human spirit that perseveres, even in the absence of freedom.
