2025 Boxing Drama: New Uppercut Image Reveals Ving Rhames’ Character Details

This article forms part of ScreenRant’s Exclusive 2025 Movie Preview. Stay tuned for the full feature releasing later this week!

In an exciting new glimpse of the film, we get a first look at Ving Rhames’ character in the upcoming sports drama Uppercut. Directed and written by Torsten Ruether, this 2025 film is a reimagining of his 2021 project, Leberhaken, with a transformative setting shift from Berlin to New York City. The story centers around Toni, played by the returning Luise Großmann, who now navigates her journey as a German immigrant aspiring to box in America. Toni finds herself under the reluctant mentorship of the jaded Elliott Duffond, portrayed by Rhames—known widely for his roles in the Mission: Impossible series. The narrative also intriguingly incorporates a secondary timeline showcasing her evolution into a boxing manager in the future.

ScreenRant is thrilled to unveil an exclusive first-look image from Uppercut. The image captures Ving Rhames amidst a moment of contemplation, dressed in a hoodie and clutching what appears to be a baseball outside of the boxing ring. While it remains uncertain whether this baseball signifies a unique training method akin to Mr. Miyagi’s unconventional techniques in The Karate Kid, this intriguing visual invites speculation. Check out the full-sized image below:

Exclusive Still Image from Uppercut 2025 Movie Preview - Ving Rhames Holding a Ball

Ving Rhames Plays a Crucial Role in Uppercut

The Success of the Film Relies on His Character

Watch the trailer here

Although Toni is the focal character in Uppercut, Ving Rhames’ supporting role is vital for the film’s achievement. Inspirational sports movies often highlight the coach’s character, portraying their relationship to the sport as a pivotal factor in the emotional development of the protagonists under their guidance. Notably, while some coaches are central figures—like in The Way Back—they remain critical components in stories where the spotlight is on the up-and-coming champion, exemplifying their significant role.

For instance, The Way Back, featuring Ben Affleck, tells the story of an alcoholic former basketball player who takes up the challenge of coaching his high school team.

From Mr. Miyagi (played by Pat Morita) in the Karate Kid series to Coach Boone (Denzel Washington) in Remember the Titans, these coaching characters have carved out iconic statuses in cinematic memories. Rhames’ portrayal of Elliott Duffond hints that he might become a celebrated figure in that esteemed realm. The image suggests that Duffond’s character evolves into a more supportive mentor, potentially rediscovering his passion for the sport that he previously abandoned—an arc that could solidify his legacy in the world of sports dramas.