EPIX, an MGM company, have announced that undefeated boxing champion Andre “Son of God” Ward will host the new version of "The Contender." Legendary boxing trainers Freddie Roach and Naazim Richardson will also join as trainers in the iconic reality series that has launched multiple boxers into contention for world titles.
Coaches Roach and Richardson will each oversee a team of eight fighters, pushing their fighting skills, strength and endurance to the limit in preparation for elimination competitions. The coaches will also act as the fighters’ mentor, helping them to navigate their everyday life as the competitors live and train together and fight each other in the ring. Each fighter will be vying to become the ultimate Contender and take the winner’s six-figure purse.
Said Ward, "I have faced the unique challenges of professional boxing firsthand and know the focus required to succeed at the highest level. Hosting a show that has enabled so many talented fighters reach their dreams is an honor and I look forward to giving the fans unique insight into the life of a fighter and leading the audience through the thrills of this competition."
“It is so important for The Contender to have the best and most trusted boxing experts which is why we reached out to Andre, Freddy and Naazim,” said Burnett. “They are the very best and can help create an experience almost never seen before. Eric and I are really excited to exceed the fans' expectations. We love The Contender and we love boxing.”
The all-new 12-episode season of the boxing competition series, produced by Mark Burnett and his longtime executive producer Eric Van Wagenen, is set to begin filming this Spring in Los Angeles.