For fans of combat sports, there’s nothing better than watching a series that captures the intensity, discipline and drama of fighting. Whether it’s a hard-hitting documentary, a reality show featuring future champions or a gripping drama with well-choreographed fight scenes, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best combat sports series (in my humble opinion) to watch right now.
The Cage
If you’re looking for a series that showcases some of the biggest names in MMA, The Cage is a must-watch. Featuring legendary fighters like Georges St-Pierre (GSP), Jon Jones and Cyril Gane, this show takes viewers inside the world of mixed martial arts, offering a raw and unfiltered look at the sport.
From brutal training camps to fight-night showdowns, The Cage is as real as it gets. Borrowing elements from all successful combat sports movies, it delivers. Unfortunately, the series ends with a gripping cliffhanger, we are now waiting for more to come.
Cobra Kai
Originally made on YouTube’s platform, it didn’t land. However, since the rights purchase and mass avialability of Netflix, it’s gone BIG.
For a mix of nostalgia, action and great storytelling, Cobra Kai delivers. A sequel to the iconic Karate Kid films, this series follows Johnny Lawrence and Daniel LaRusso as they reignite their decades-long rivalry through the next generation of martial artists. While the show leans more into entertainment than realism, its well-executed fight sequences and strong character development make it a fantastic watch, especially for families with older children. This is a must watch for those who grew up watching the unbelievable (but exciting) movies from the 80’s and 90’s, it’s a real throwback in todays era and it’s incredibly impressive how they managed to retain many actors from the original series in the reboot.
Fightworld
Hosted by actor and martial artist Frank Grillo, Fightworld is a Netflix docuseries that explores different combat sports cultures across the globe. From Muay Thai in Thailand to Lethwei in Myanmar, this series provides deep insight into the philosophy, traditions and brutality of various fighting disciplines.
It’s a must-watch for those who want to understand the deeper meaning behind martial arts. This series helped me get a deeper appreciation of martial arts as a whole and the cultures that develop along side the sports.
The Ultimate Fighter
One of the most influential reality shows in combat sports, The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) has launched the careers of numerous UFC legends. The series follows a group of aspiring MMA fighters living together while competing for a UFC contract. TUF delivered some of the greatest (hilarious) moments in the MMA world.
With intense training, dramatic in-house rivalries and some of the most memorable fights in MMA history, TUF remains a classic for fight fans.
A Thousand Blows
The latest addition to the combat sports genre, A Thousand Blows is a gritty new series from Disney+. Set in the Victorian-era bare-knuckle boxing scene, it follows fighters struggling to survive in an unforgiving world. With a compelling story, strong performances and intense fight choreography, this show is perfect for fans of historical dramas and brutal combat sequences. Stephen Graham spent time developing with BKB/BYB fighter Ryan Barrett and absolutely nailed the essence of bare knuckle fighting.
If you’re a fan of combat sports, these series offer everything from real-life fight journeys to gripping fictional tales. Whether you want adrenaline-fuelled action or a deep dive into martial arts culture, these shows have you covered.