Fighting Tommy Riley

Flashbacks reveal Tommy's once-promising boxing career and Olympic aspirations, which tragically slipped away from him. This moment highlights his reflections on lost opportunities, providing insight into his current struggles.

Now leading a mundane life, Tommy works by day laying computer cables and serves as a sparring partner at a local gym at night. His lack of ambition begins to strain his relationship with Stephanie, contributing to their eventual breakup.

At the gym, Tommy meets Marty, a former boxer turned high school teacher and boxing trainer. Marty's past disappointments with a previous fighter who abandoned him lead him and his partner Diane to seek fresh talent in boxing.

During a sparring session, Tommy unexpectedly knocks down his opponent after receiving a low blow. This incident results in his expulsion from the gym, but it catches the attention of Marty and Diane, who recognize his potential.

Tommy begins training under Marty and Diane’s mentorship, slowly rising in the local boxing scene. With each match, his confidence grows as he achieves victories, although some promoters remain unimpressed.

Diane reveals an old tape from Tommy's 1999 Olympic trials, showing his promising start but also his collapse due to a faked hand injury. Marty helps Tommy understand the emotional turmoil behind his actions, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in boxing.

As Tommy's journey continues, rival Leroy Kane trains for his title shot. In response, Marty cleverly sets up a fight for Tommy against Kane, building anticipation for the upcoming match.

Marty and Tommy retreat to a cabin in the woods for intense training. While the environment fosters growth, moments of awkwardness arise during post-workout massages, but they ultimately decide to return to the city, ready to implement their hard work.

On the night of the high-stakes fight against Kane, Marty and Tommy devise a plan to wear him down. Their strategy embodies teamwork and preparation, enhancing Tommy's resolve.

The fight concludes with Tommy executing the strategy perfectly, knocking Kane down and securing a significant victory. This win attracts the attention of promoter Bob Silver, who presents Tommy with a lucrative contract.

Promoter Bob Silver offers Tommy a million-dollar contract with a catch: he must sever ties with Marty. This puts Tommy in a difficult position, as he values his mentor's guidance despite the pressures to advance his career.

Tommy's refusal to accept the promoter's offer leads to heightened tensions with Stephanie, who becomes increasingly frustrated with his choices. The pressures of ambition begin to fracture Tommy’s relationships.

As frustrations rise, confrontations between Tommy and Marty occur, filled with neglect and aggression. The climax of their emotional turmoil leads to a physical altercation where Tommy asserts he won't tolerate Marty's aggressive behavior.

After a series of emotional struggles, Tommy discovers Marty deceased from an overdose. This tragic event deeply impacts Tommy, forcing him to confront the realities of their lives and the lessons Marty imparted.

In the wake of losing Marty, Tommy reflects on his life and reconciles his emotions. Dressed in Marty's ring gear, he prepares for his next fight, embodying his mentor's spirit and embracing his determination to succeed.