Hard Times

An older, seasoned bare-knuckle fighter who relies on grit and pragmatism to survive. He travels to New Orleans to take on longer odds, keeps emotional distance, and ultimately takes the winnings with a quiet, unsettled conscience.

A cocky, fast-talking gambler who bankrolls Chaney's early fights and guides him through the rough hospitality of the road. His bravado and impulses get him into trouble with sponsors and mobsters alike.

A down-on-her-luck woman who becomes Chaney's love interest, seeking stability and a better life. Her relationship with Chaney frays when a more reliable man appears, highlighting the personal costs of the fighters' world.

A loyal cutman who scrapes by between rounds, embodying the gritty resilience of the street level support system that keeps the fighters in the ring. His presence underscores the fragility of hope amid addiction and danger.

The loser's sponsor who handles bets and payments with a hard-nosed pragmatism, pushing the fighters toward bigger risks and heavier debts. His ruthlessness exposes the exploitative economics of the boxing world.

A ruthless sponsor with mob connections who shapes the terms of bets and uses coercion to maximize profit from the fights. His influence underscores the corrupt underbelly of the match scene.

A formidable prizefighter imported from Chicago who embodies the brutal, high-stakes boxing ethos. He provides a decisive, punishing test for Chaney in the climactic bout.

Local brawling champion whose victory raises the stakes and adds pressure on Chaney to perform under the public gaze. The fight tests nerve, strength, and resolve.

A mob-backed figure who anchors the debt and betting chaos surrounding the fights. His presence heightens threats and defines the price of failure.