Two fathers — one, a professional MMA fighter; the other, a retired veteran of Calico Storico — raise their sons to excel in their respective combat sports. Through their stories, State of Play explores the relationship between sports and violence.

Raymundo “Sugar Ray” Beltran — a sparring partner of Manny Pacquiao — strives to make a name for himself by winning a world title in the twilight of his career. State of Play follows his efforts to overcome his perpetual underdog status and end his career recognized as one of boxing's best.