Fast becoming one of the best networks on cable, AMC has decided to expand its lineup to include a little unscripted television. The station, as of now known for its hard-hitting dramas like Mad Men and Breaking Bad, has found success in the last few weeks with The Walking Dead, an all new zombie vehicle that’s averaged over five million viewers an episode. Today’s news will see them further expand their brand into cheaper territories that could prove a failsafe in case future riskier, more expensive programs don’t pan out.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the still-untitled series will follow brilliant boxing trainer Freddie Roach as he battles Parkinson’s and continues to work with some of the greatest boxing talents fighting today. For those of you who don’t follow boxing, it may be a little unclear just how brilliant and talented Freddie Roach is. The fifty year old has overseen the training of numerous world champions from current pound for pound best in the world Manny Pacquiao to UFC legend Anderson Silva. He is a god in the world of boxing, and just last week when a video surfaced of contender Antonio Margarito mocking his shaking hands, the majority of the boxing community responded with outrage.
While it may seem like a copout for networks to enter into the reality game, tapping someone of Roach’s stature in the midst of a serious health scare and the training of the world’s best fighter has to be considered a stroke of genius. Newscaster and boxing fanatic Jim Lampley has also signed on to produce, likely putting to rest any questions of authenticity. Ring the bell, you pansies. I can’t wait.
