Ring of Death

An ex-cop with a history of extreme methods, Burke enters prison undercover to expose a deadly fight club. He is driven by a desire to return to the force and provide for his son, but his violence and street-smart tactics threaten the mission and his safety. His resolve and improvisational skills keep him one step ahead of both inmates and guards. He must balance loyalty to his past with the risky, moral choices of his undercover alliance.

The warden runs Cainsville with an iron fist and a pragmatic face. He sees Burke as a potential new star in his deadly arena and may use him to legitimize the prison's brutal 'sport.' He embodies the corrupt, controlled brutality that keeps the system in motion. His calculus pits order against humanity as the undercover operation unfolds.

The President is the leader of the prison's dominant gang, The Disciples, feared by inmates and guards alike. He wields power through intimidation and enforces his own code inside the prison walls. His presence amplifies the danger as Burke navigates the violent social order of Cainsville. He represents the ultimate control and a formidable obstacle to Burke's investigation.

An FBI agent and Burke's old partner, Steve recruits Burke for the undercover operation. He serves as the outside connection that frames the mission and provides the motivation for Burke's pursuit of accountability. His trust in Burke is tempered by the risks of the case. He embodies the professional side of justice pressing from outside the prison walls.

Burke's wife, now separated, is mentioned as part of Burke's life and the personal cost of his career. She represents the domestic stakes that could be affected by Burke's dangerous undercover work. Her presence keeps the emotional dimension of the story grounded beyond the prison's brutality.

Tommy is Burke's son, the beneficiary of Burke's risky undercover deal. His future serves as a constant reminder of what is at stake for Burke and why he pushes through the life-threatening mission. The father-son dynamic provides a personal motive and emotional stakes amid the violence.