In the violent world of the NFL, helmet-crushing hits that sometimes cause concussions are commonplace. Research has shown that multiple concussions can cause permanent brain injuries, possibly leading to debilitating memory loss, confusion, dementia and even suicidal depression. A host of former players and one unlikely advocate from the world of pro wrestling have turned to the NFL for answers, but have been disappointed with the response. Real Sports correspondent Bernard Goldberg investigates this volatile topic.
The proliferation of performance-enhancing drug use has been a front-page story recently in pro baseball and football, but many don't realize that the urge to break the rules to increase the chance of victory has become an issue in other sports. Real Sports correspondent Jon Frankel investigates the spread of performance-enhancing drugs in big-money horse racing.
Born the son of a prostitute and her pimp, Marlon Shirley was placed in foster care at age five. Soon after that, he lost his left foot in a lawn-mower accident. After years in the foster care system, Shirley finally found a family in Utah who helped him work through his traumas. Today, he's called "the world's fastest amputee" and has two Paralympic 100-meter gold medals to prove it. Real Sports/Sports Illustrated correspondent Frank Deford sits down with San Diego resident Marlon Shirley to hear his remarkable story.
Life has never been easy for boxer Johnny Tapia. Bouts of depression and conflicts outside the ring inspired the maxim "Mi Vida Loca" ("My Crazy Life"), which was emblazoned on his boxing trunks. When Real Sports last spoke with Tapia, he was recovering from the coma that followed his confrontation with Arizona police in January 2003. Despite his troubles, he continued to find comfort within the confines of the ring, where his fiery, brawling style made him a fan favorite. Today, that comfort is a distant memory. Recently, Tapia was found unconscious after a drug overdose, and his brother-in-law and nephew were killed in a car accident while traveling to see him in the hospital. Correspondent James Brown revisits this troubled former world champ.
Tell us what you think about HBO GO. Sign up now to participate in the HBO GO Advisory Panel to share your opinions and for a chance to be entered into HBO sweepstakes and contests.