With nods to the traditional and popular predecessors of boxing and wrestling, Jones adds to the Dojo series a heavy dose of drama. Hector, on the verge of 18 and also his first big mixed martial arts fight, has a lot going on. His father's alcoholism has split the family apart, his girlfriend and his best friend choose each other when his commitment to MMA leaves little time for socializing, and his mother disapproves of his passion, constantly worrying...

Nong Vang dreams that one day he'll be an MMA superstar. He can trash-talk with as much force as his deadly kicks. But being a hero in his real life hinges on more than his first amateur MMA fight-it means struggling through school and protecting his family from his bully big brother. Can he find the courage and skill to succeed inside the cage and out?

Xavier's dad is home from prison, but his dad is always angry. Or drinking. When Xavier's temper flares, it threatens to send him down the same path as his father. Can he control his actions?

Camila is hiding a giant secret: her mother is on death row. To prevent discovery, Camila avoids friendships. She keeps to herself. If people find out, they will see her only as a criminal's daughter.

A night out with friends goes all wrong. Now DeQuin's facing the fallout. His dad, who's serving time, thinks DeQuin should fight. His grandfather preaches peaceful resistance. Whatever tactic DeQuin chooses, he risks losing everything.

Frankie has a chance at a fresh start by moving off the reservation and enrolling at Rondo Alternative. But leaving gang life proves harder than Frankie ever imagined. Can he find a way out?

When Jessica is diagnosed with social anxiety disorder, she finally understands why it's hard to interact with others. Rondo Alternative High School gives her a fresh start. Can she overcome her fears and make some friends?

Kyle and Mike dream of playing college football. But Mike has taken some serious hits in their high school games. To keep Mike playing, Kyle helps him cheat the school's concussion tests. But at what risk?