If you’re a fan of wrestling, and family drama, chances are you’ve already watched the The Iron Claw. The film is a about the Von Erich brothers, and how they make their wrestling legacy despite a mountain of problems.
If you’re itching for more films that integrate sports, emotion, and tragedy, we’ve got you covered with a list of 10 must-watch movies. Whether you like to get into the the grittier side of wrestling, or uplifting stories of underdogs, these movies will have your back.
Big George Foreman (2023)
This film is the story of a man who goes from nothing to everything, from anger to peace, from despair to triumph. We’re talking about Big George Foreman, who is a boxing legend whose journey from Houston’s streets to Olympic gold is nothing short of miraculous.
In his career, he exchanged punches with legends like Joe Frazier and even Muhammad Ali. George conquered not only his opponents but also his own flaws and shortcomings. This is a film that’ll inspire you to keep moving forward without looking back.
The Wrestler (2008)
Do you know about Randy Robinson? He was a wrestling superstar in the 80s, but now he is struggling to make ends meet and is forced to fight low-paying matches. Randy’s only comfort is the strip club, where he meets Cassidy, who sees beyond his scars.
Randy suffers a heart attack and tries to connect with his estranged daughter, but she rejects him. Randy also tries to start a relationship with Cassidy, but she pushes him away. Randy becomes a man who neither can’t let go of his past glory, nor find his purpose.
Million Dollar Baby (2004)
Let us tell you what happens when a woman who dreams of boxing meets with someone who can’t let go of his past. They find hope and almost make history. The film is built around Maggie Fitzgerald, who is a waitress with a fighter’s spirit.
One day, Maggie crosses paths with Frankie Dunn who is a trainer haunted by his own demons, working at a rundown gym. Dunn teaches Maggie the ropes, and in exchange, she shows him the beauty of life. It is raw, beautiful, brilliant, and heartbreaking, so make sure to have tissues ready.
Fighting with My Family (2019)
You must not mistake the Knight family for an ordinary one because they are not one. The only common thread they share is their love for wrestling. They are based in England and run a small wrestling business with great passion.
Everything changes when their kids Saraya and Zak, audition for the WWE, which is the biggest wrestling company worldwide. Saraya, now known as Paige, manages to get in, but Zak doesn’t. This creates tension between the siblings. Paige moves to America to train with the WWE, while Zak struggles with his dashed dreams.
Raging Bull (1980)
This is the inspiring story of a man who may have been a champion in the ring, but outside of it, his entire life is a mess. Everyone loves Jake because of his tough fighting style and strong chin, but his anger and jealousy end up ruining everything he holds dear.
This includes his boxing career, his marriage, his family, and even his self-respect. Jake decides to get his life together and takes on both his problems and opponents so he can find both redemption and peace. If you love boxing, this is one of the best films built around this competitive sport.
Hands of Stone (2016)
This is the story of a man who rises from poverty to fame and becomes a hero to many despite his many flaws and shortcomings. In this film, Roberto Duran, also known as Hands of Stone, becomes a boxing legend through hard work and never giving up.
Roberto’s greatest rivalries, especially with Sugar Ray Leonard, stirs debate in sports history. Yet, outside the ring, Roberto’s life is rife with personal struggles and mistakes. If you love hearing the stories of redemption, Hands of Stone is a good film as any.
Cassandro (2023)
This film is about a wrestler who never cared about stereotypes designed by other people or society as a whole. His name is Cassandra, and people also call him Liberace of Lucha Libre.
This is the story of a gay man from Texas who changes himself into a bold and flamboyant character who challenges wrestling’s macho image. Cassandro is also the story of personal struggles with addiction, abuse, and self-discovery, ultimately finding his true self and love.
Southpaw (2015)
There existed a time when Billy Hope used to be at the top of the world as a boxer. Billy was undefeated and had a loving family and a strong team, but tragedy struck, and he lost his wife, his championship, and custody of his daughter.
Billy’s life hit rock bottom, but he found a glimmer of hope in a tough trainer who gave him a chance so Billy could bring his life on track. Then, Billy trained himself to death, got back in shape, cleaned up his act, and fought to regain custody of his daughter.
Rocky (1976)
If you’re talking about films about boxing and are not including the Rocky film series in it, then it is not much of a list, is it? Rocky was just a normal man who boxed in small-time clubs so he could put food on the table, but deep down, Rocky had a big dream.
He wanted to be a champion, and when he got the chance to fight the heavyweight champion, Apollo Creed, he saw it as his shot to prove himself and win the heart of the woman he loved. If you’re having a hard time dealing with life’s troubles, Rocky will help you see beyond your excuses.
Cinderella Man (2005)
Cinderella Man might be the last film on our list, but this doesn’t make it any less of a film. To be honest, it is one of the greatest films ever made, with Russell Crowe as the lead. Russell is James J. Braddock, a boxer who overcomes incredible odds during the Great Depression.
James has to quit boxing due to a broken hand and is forced to work odd jobs to take care of his wife and kids. When James is given the chance to enter the arena again, he surprises everyone by winning. His fight also earns him the name The Cinderella Man.
So there we have it, our 10 movie alternatives to watch when you’re finished watching Iron Claw.
What do you think of our picks? Do you agree? Are there any notable omissions? Let us know in the comments below!