“Assault In The Ring” unveils the shadows of a boxing scandal etched into the sport’s history as one of its darkest hours. The documentary takes audiences on a compelling journey, revisiting a pivotal moment that stained the reputation of boxing and forever altered the lives of those involved. At the heart of the narrative is the June 16, 1983, bout between undefeated prizefighter Billy Collins Jr. and Luis Resto at the iconic Madison Square Garden. What was anticipated to be a dream opportunity for both fighters morphed into a 30-minute assault, exposing the underbelly of the sport.
The film meticulously examines new evidence surrounding the infamous match, peeling back layers of deception and revealing shocking details about the pre-fight activities involving Luis Resto, his trainer Panama Lewis, and the athletic commission representatives. The unraveling of events exposes a criminal plot that transcends the ring, delving into the moral quagmire that ensnared the lives of those connected to the scandal. Luis Resto’s rise from an underdog to a momentary victor is dissected, only to crumble when it’s disclosed that his trainer had illegally tampered with his gloves, shattering the dreams of Nashville’s Billy Collins Jr.
“Assault In The Ring” is more than a recounting of a scandalous boxing match; it is a profound exploration of the human toll exacted by deception and betrayal. The documentary goes beyond the headlines, allowing Resto to share his perspective on the story, providing viewers with a nuanced understanding of the personal ramifications of his actions. Panama Lewis, whose career as a trainer abruptly ended that night, breaks his silence in the documentary, offering insights into the events of that fateful fight and the lasting impact on both fighters.