Lyric Opera Premeiere

Telling the story of the rise of boxer Emile Griffiths, Terence Blanchard and Michael Cristopher's Champion makes its Lyric Opera debut in winter 2024, in a thrilling production from James Robinson. Featuring two performers sharing the lead role, Justin Austin plays the athlete in his younger days, with Eric Owens taking over as the older Griffiths, looking back on his life and career.

What's the story?

Champion focuses on the fascinating life story of Emile Griffith, a professional boxer who went on to become a World Champion. Griffith, who was named Fighter of the Year by The Ring magazine and the Boxing Writers Association of America and number 33 on Ring Magazine's list of 80 greatest fighters of the past 80 years, has his compelling story excellently told through Blanchard's jazz infused score and Michael Cristofer's libretto.