Ring of Faith

Filmmaker Craig Syracusa finds a fresh approach to the perennial subject of boxing by exploring the religious views of athletes, writers, trainers, and supporters (including, apparently, Pope Francis). How can adherents of ethical belief systems support a contest in which the goal is to inflict physical damage? Vatican representatives and members of the Judeo-Christian and Islamic segments speak (no Buddhists, alas). Alicia Napoleon, a female super-welterweight champion from Long Island, and Stephen Espinoza of Showtime Sports, are especially prominent apologists, repeating that ring opponents should respect and love each other as competitors, not enemies. Clergymen (from NYC, prominently) sing boxing’s praises for keeping at-risk youth out of trouble and cite Catholic parish involvement with the Golden Gloves. Boxing is hailed as a positive route by which religious minorities/ethnicities (Jews, Irish, Muslims—the latter heroically represented by Muhammad Ali) entered America’s mainstream. Champ Robert Guerrero credits faith with getting his wife through a high-profile cancer ordeal. Even Scripture itself is scrutinized for clues indicating that the Apostle Paul followed the sport. Ring of Faith does not ignore the medical toll taken by boxing, although some viewers may find more rationalizing here than fundamental questions being answered. Still, this is an interesting documentary overall on the intersection of religion and a violent sport. Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady)