The Main Event

The Main Event

Year: 1979

Runtime: 112 mins

Language: English

Director: Howard Zieff

RomanceComedy

The film follows a cash‑strapped entrepreneur who, after a series of failed ventures, acquires a down‑on‑his‑luck boxer as a tax write‑off. Determined to turn the loss into profit, she pushes the fighter back into the ring, despite her protégé’s strong reservations about the risky comeback. The uneasy partnership forces both to confront their past failures as they prepare for a high‑stakes bout.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The Main Event (1979)

Trace every key event in The Main Event (1979) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Leo wakes up and prepares for school

Leo, a young boy with a love for wrestling, is sleeping in his wrestling-ring themed bed when his grandma Denise wakes him up, encouraging him to get ready for school. His parents are introduced, with Denise showing her support for his passion. Leo’s day begins with a typical morning routine involving his family and heading off to school.

2

Bullying at school

At school, Leo meets his friends and faces bullying from another boy who teases their interest in wrestling. Ms. Cartwright intervenes to send the kids to the principal's office, but the bullying continues. Leo's love of wrestling makes him a target, highlighting the challenges he faces at school.

School
3

Discovery of the wrestling mask

Leo sneaks into a house holding an estate sale and finds a wrestling mask in a box. The sale organizer allows him to take the mask home as a prize. That night, Leo's fascination with wrestling deepens as he watches TV, seeing an ad about a competition offering a WWE contract and prize money.

House holding estate sale
4

Leo's family and personal struggles

Leo overhears his parents arguing about his mother leaving for another man and their financial struggles. His father mentions fears of losing their home due to unpaid bills. This causes Leo to feel insecure and desperate for confidence, prompting him to try on the mask.

Home kitchen
5

Transformation with the mask

When Leo wears the mask, his voice deepens and he gains super strength and confidence. He researches the legend of the mask and learns only a deserving champion can unlock its powers. This new persona emboldens him to stand up to his bullies and seek out the wrestling competition.

Leo’s room
6

Leo begins wrestling audition

Leo adopts the ring name 'Kid Chaos' and participates in the wrestling auditions. With the help of an adult wrestler named Smooth, he advances through the competition rounds, grasping his moment to prove himself. His newfound confidence influences his relationships and attitude at school.

Wrestling audition site
7

Leo's personal and social growth

Leo continues to progress in the wrestling tournament and confides in his grandmother about the mask’s influence. He struggles to balance his real personality with his masked persona, especially as he gains a crush on Erica. Together, they enter a school talent show, trying to be authentic amidst their secret.

School
8

Family conflicts and hero moments

Leo’s father and grandmother have tense conversations about family issues, including his mother’s departure. Leo uses the mask to stop a robbery at a diner, gaining local attention. Meanwhile, family friction continues with Leo feeling the pressure of his double life.

Diner and home
9

Final match and revelation

In the championship final, Leo faces off against the famous wrestler Samson. The rival switches his mask with a fake, and Leo’s confidence is shaken when he realizes the truth. Despite sabotages, Leo uses his wit and bravery to taunt Samson into a height fear, leading to his victory.

Wrestling ring
10

Victory and consequences

Leo wins the match and receives the prize money on TV, revealing his age to the audience. He decides to give the wrestling contract to his friend Smooth instead of himself. The crowd's excitement peaks as Leo’s real strength and character shine through, solidified by his victory.

Wrestling arena
11

New beginnings and growth

Two weeks after the tournament, Leo joins his school wrestling team, demonstrating genuine confidence without the mask. His relationship with his father improves, and Leo gets ready to face his school bully in a match, symbolizing his personal growth and newfound self-assurance.

School gym

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 05:13

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The Main Event Summary

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The Main Event Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in The Main Event

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Main Event

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The Main Event Spoiler-Free Summary

More About The Main Event

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