Female amateur boxing and domestic violence survival took center stage over the weekend at the Art’otel Hoxton in London, UK, where a nearly full auditorium applauded the premiere of the pilot episode of Spar. Bored Panda attended the event on Friday (November 15), gaining exclusive access to a groundbreaking show that shines a spotlight on a sport often overlooked by mainstream media, and had the chance to interact with the cast and crew.
Spar follows the journey of four amateur boxers from different backgrounds, each with their own struggles and motivations.
In the pilot episode of Spar, Isabel Welsh, played by Nicola Roffe, was shadowed by the haunting memory of her abusive ex, represented by a menacing silhouette.
As a survivor of domestic violence seeking to transform her trauma into strength, she turned to amateur boxing at a modest gym in East London, where she became the sole woman in training.
Female amateur boxing and domestic violence survival took center stage over the weekend
Her presence drew curious and sometimes intrusive attention, including unwelcome romantic advances from Jason Springer (Andre Fyffe).
Undeterred by these challenges, Isabel asserted her determination to spar, despite the initial reluctance of her male counterparts.
Anthony Vander, the creator of Spar, told Bored Panda during the premiere’s Q&A session that Isabel’s choice to step into the ring was her way of reappropriating the violence she has suffered.
Image credits: Nadia Meli
“In terms of Isabel, sport is the gateway,” Anthony said, highlighting that he knew “abuse happens a lot in gyms.”
He further explained: “[What I wanted] to come through was, [this] thing is the gateway for mental health. It was, for me, back in 2011 […] just sport being an outlet.”
The showrunner added: “And for me, it was really, really important that we kind of showed that with Isabel.
A nearly full auditorium applauded the premiere of the pilot episode of Spar
“I didn’t really want [domestic abuse] to be something [super] visual, […] you don’t necessarily see domestic abuse, because I think it’s something in the subtext and the silent moments, it’s there to see, you know, and I think it’s something that we all need to talk about.”
Anthony concluded: “Boxing is community. And for me, it’s about education, it’s about informing myself, about you guys being informed, and spreading the message, so […] you can put an awareness on issues.”
Actress Nicola, who shared her journey as a martial artist learning to box for the lead, revealed that combat sports played a crucial role in helping her heal from her own “inner turmoils.”
Having experienced domestic violence both within her circle and personally, she felt a deep connection to Isabel’s character.
She explained during the Q&A: “[Boxing helps] coming into a phase where I can be strong, I can feel powerful.”
Nicola added: “Somebody can go through [a traumatic experience] and they can take it and they can make it into something [different] […].
Bored Panda attended the event on Friday (November 15), gaining exclusive access to a groundbreaking show
“To me, when I was working on the character, [I was also thinking about] why would she just put herself [in a new situation where she’d face violence from men]?
“But there is that aspect of the reappropriating control [and] how brave you have to have to be.”
Mavin Rasheed, who produced the movie, chimed in: “The character [shows that it’s like] seeing yourself back in the same position where now you have more control and you have more power, and you can stop when you want to stop.”
Spar’s pilot episode also delved into the relentless demands of amateur boxing, a sport requiring the same rigorous training as its professional counterpart but without the accompanying glory, fame, or financial rewards.
This struggle was captured through Dwayne Spring (Edwin De La Renta), who grappled with balancing his commitment to the sport with his relationship with his wife, Monet Spring (Lauren La Rocque), highlighting the personal sacrifices often endured by athletes in the underappreciated arena.
During the Q&A, Edwin highlighted the resilience of amateur boxers, emphasizing how many athletes train for Olympic competitions while juggling full-time jobs to make a living.
Spar shines a spotlight on a sport often overlooked by mainstream media
From overcoming personal traumas to dealing with societal pressures, Spar’s boxers use the sport to cope and improve their mental well-being.
Alongside Nicola Roffe, the series stars Edwin De La Renta, Andre Fyffe, and 2023 BAFTA nominee Jordan Pitt.
You can watch the trailer for Spar below:
Image credits: Spar
Sparring in English boxing refers to a controlled practice fight between two boxers, allowing them to work on technique, timing, and strategy without the intensity of a real match.
It helps boxers improve their skills, build endurance, and prepare for an actual competition. Sparring typically involves wearing protective gear and is guided by rules to ensure safety.
