Champion

A fiercely ambitious boxer who climbs from humble beginnings to fame by exploiting relationships and manipulating those around him. His ruthless pursuit of success leads to betrayals of friends, lovers, and mentors, culminating in a fatal championship fight. He embodies the dark side of ambition, where glory is bought with personal cost.

Daughter of the restaurant owner who becomes entangled with Midge during his rise. Her relationship with both Midge and Connie complicates loyalties, and she ultimately pursues a more secure future with Connie. She represents the personal consequences of the fighters’ turbulent lives.

Midge's brother, a steadying influence who tries to keep his sibling from self-destruction. Loyal and pragmatic, he navigates family duties and romantic entanglements while supporting Emma and caring for their mother. He serves as the film's moral counterpoint to Midge's ruthlessness.

A sculptor who becomes involved with Midge, drawn by his rising fame. Her relationship with him adds another layer of romance and ambition, complicating loyalties and fueling Midge's personal upheavals. She embodies the glamorous yet dangerous allure around the boxing world.

A sculptor and the wife of Jerome Harris, she falls for Midge and challenges the stability of the management arrangement. Her presence deepens the personal costs and moral ambiguities surrounding Midge’s ascent and affiliations.

A wealthy, influential figure in boxing with criminal ties who tries to shape Midge's career through money and power. He embodies the corruption and manipulation at the heart of the boxing world, offering big deals that demand loyalty and obedience.

Midge's initial trainer and manager who discovers him and guides his early career. He remains a steady influence who values trust and loyalty, and he eventually returns to train Midge for the championship when needed. He acts as a counterbalance to Midge's ruthless ascent.

A top boxer and rival who faces Midge in a pivotal contest, with outcomes affected by the undercurrents of mob influence. The rivalry pushes Midge to prove himself and prompts strategic choices about his career path.

Midge and Connie's mother, whose presence anchors the brothers and highlights the personal costs of the boxing world. She embodies the family stakes behind the fighters' ambitions.