Netflix Releases Highly Anticipated Documentary on Motocross Star Ken Roczen Titled “THE UNDERDOG” — The documentary promises a…
Netflix has officially announced the upcoming release of a powerful new sports documentary titled “THE UNDERDOG,” chronicling the life, battles, and triumphs of one of motocross’s most resilient and celebrated athletes, Ken Roczen. Set to premiere on August 15, 2025, the feature-length documentary promises a raw and emotional look into the German rider’s incredible journey from childhood prodigy to international motocross icon.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Bryan Carberry (Fearless, CounterPunch), “THE UNDERDOG” is already being hailed as one of the most inspiring sports films of the year. The film will be available to stream globally on Netflix, and a limited theatrical release is also planned in select cities including Los Angeles, New York, Berlin, and London.
A Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption
Ken Roczen’s story reads like a Hollywood script — meteoric rise, catastrophic setbacks, and an unstoppable comeback. Born in Mattstedt, Germany, Roczen quickly rose through the motocross ranks, dominating in Europe before bursting onto the American scene with youthful energy and undeniable skill.
But Roczen’s career was nearly cut short multiple times due to devastating injuries. In 2017, a horrific crash during an AMA Supercross race nearly destroyed his arm. After a grueling series of surgeries — more than a dozen in total — and a long road to rehabilitation, most experts doubted he’d ever race again.
Yet, Roczen not only returned to racing — he returned to winning.
“I was counted out more than once,” Roczen says in the film’s trailer. “People told me to quit. But the fire inside me never died.”
Inside “THE UNDERDOG”
The documentary combines dramatic race footage, behind-the-scenes access, and intimate interviews with Roczen, his family, teammates, medical specialists, and rivals. Fans will witness never-before-seen video from the hospital room, training sessions, and private moments with Roczen’s wife Courtney and their son Griffin.
Netflix confirmed that “THE UNDERDOG” will explore:
- Roczen’s early days racing 85cc bikes in Germany
- His MX2 World Championship win at just 17
- The challenges of transitioning to AMA Supercross in the U.S.
- His severe arm injury and the medical battle that followed
- His return to form, including multiple podiums and race wins
- His enduring loyalty to Suzuki and decision to reject a record $275 million offer from Ducati
“Ken’s story goes beyond dirt bikes,” said director Bryan Carberry. “It’s about pain, passion, family, and the will to keep fighting. This isn’t just a sports film — it’s a human story.”
️ Voices from the Paddock and Beyond
“THE UNDERDOG” features commentary from motocross legends like Ricky Carmichael, James Stewart, Ryan Dungey, and Eli Tomac, alongside personal reflections from Roczen himself.
Suzuki’s team manager Chris Wheeler also appears in the documentary, offering a unique look at Roczen’s behind-the-scenes leadership and loyalty to the Suzuki brand.
Other prominent figures in sports media, such as ESPN’s X Games analyst Cameron Steele, appear to provide context to Roczen’s cultural impact on motocross and the broader sports world.
“Ken changed how people see toughness,” Steele notes in the film. “It’s not just about grit on the track — it’s about courage in life.”
Global Anticipation and Fan Reaction
The announcement instantly sparked excitement across the motocross and sports communities. Within hours of Netflix’s social media post, “THE UNDERDOG” was trending on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, with fans sharing memories, photos, and well-wishes for Roczen.
“We’ve waited years for this. Ken is more than an athlete — he’s a symbol of hope,” one fan wrote.
“If this doesn’t win awards, something’s wrong. Roczen is the real deal,” said another.
Mark Your Calendar: August 15
The official Netflix release date is August 15, 2025, with a red-carpet premiere scheduled in Los Angeles two days prior. Roczen and his family are expected to attend, alongside stars from the motocross, sports, and entertainment worlds.
A special extended cut with bonus footage is also planned for Blu-ray and digital purchase in late 2025, including deleted scenes, exclusive interviews, and a commentary track from Roczen and director Carberry.
A Legacy Cemented
As Roczen continues to race and inspire in the AMA circuit, “THE UNDERDOG” cements his status not just as a champion on the bike, but as a figure of unshakable will and perseverance.
In the end, it’s a message everyone can connect with.
“Life knocks you down,” Roczen says in the final scene of the trailer. “But if you get back up — that’s when the magic happens.”
“THE UNDERDOG” premieres globally on Netflix August 15, 2025. Don’t miss it.
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