ESPN is commemorating Hispanic Heritage Month with a full slate of original content and programming that is built around the theme of “Somos” (We Are), highlighting contributions of Latinos within the sports landscape. Special programming on the networks of ESPN includes events and original projects that will air across linear and digital properties in English and Spanish throughout the month. This venture is highlighted by the television premiere of Las Amazonas de Yaxunah, a documentary that underscores the spirit and determination of a Mayan women’s softball team from the Yucatán region of Mexico. The film is directed by Alfonso Algara and produced by ESPN Deportes as part of an initiative to celebrate the Spanish-language network’s 20th anniversary.
This project follows the journey of 26 players, ranging from age 13 to 62, shattering gender stereotypes and overcoming significant challenges to pursue their passion for softball. The audience is brought to the village of Yaxunah and conveys the origin of the team, along with its travels and the mistreatment it witnessed along the way.
Through the journey, the team continues to play softball and promotes inclusivity and women empowerment. Yalitza Aparicio narrates the Spanish version of the film, while Xochitl Gomez is the voice of the English version. After its premiere on linear television, taking place on Tuesday, Sept. 17 at 8 p.m. EST/PST on ESPN2 and ESPN DEportes, the extended version of the documentary will be available on ESPN+ in both languages.
Three days earlier, Riyadh Season Noche UFC will air on ESPN PPV and across platforms as fight night takes place from the Sphere in Las Vegas. The venue is hosting its first ever live sporting event with UFC 306, featuring a showcase matchup of Sean O’Malley and Merab Dvalishvili. Preliminary bouts will be available on ESPN+, ESPNEWS, ESPN Deportes and SiriusXM Fight Nation channel No. 156 beginning at 7:30 p.m. EST. ESPN will provide fans with over 100 hours of UFC content on its linear platforms leading up to the night, including daily editions of Camino al Octagono beginning Thursday, Sept. 12.
The company has also partnered with Make-A-Wish to help children experiencing critical illnesses meet and spend time with their favorite athletes. The first episode of Mi Deseo: Un Especial de SC Reportajes premieres on Oct. 11 at 9 p.m. EST on ESPN Deportes and features professional boxer Saúl “El Canelo” Álvarez granting a wish. The one-hour special will also reflect on the most memorable wishes, including an update on a child who grew up to achieve his dream of a career in baseball.
Outside of these projects, ESPN and ESPN Deportes will air a series of features that highlight the past, present and future of Latin athletes throughout the month. Two of these features, presented by Target, pertain to Major League Baseball and players within the league. One of these projects will look at the meaning of Roberto Clemente’s No. 21 to Puerto Rican and Latino players in MLB.
The other venture looks at how a hit song, “Omg,” has set apart New York Mets infielder José Iglesias as the team makes a playoff push. Another feature will profile Hannah Hidalgo, demonstrating the rise of one of the most exciting point guards in Women’s College Basketball. Lastly, the entity will premiere a piece that explores how sports and their Mexican heritage binds the Jaquez family.
Additionally, a series of vignettes will highlight the next generation of Hispanic stars, some of whom include Juan Soto, Kamilla Cardoso and Isiah Pacheco. Coverage of Monday Night Football on ESPN Deportes in Week 4 and Week 6 will also feature special content that commemorates Hispanic Heritage Month.
