Two boxing promoters compete to sign up Mexican-American prizefighter Johnny Monterez who, despite his talent, is ashamed of his heritage and boxes on borrowed time due to a permanent hand injury.

Prizefighter Johnny is in love with his promoter O'Malley's daughter Pat. His best friend, sports reporter Rick, is also in love with her but knows that she loves Johnny. Lonely Rick takes up drinking and women (including Marilyn Monroe in nightclub bit part). Johnny knows his right hand is going bad and has to work fast to make real money.—Ed Stephan <[email protected]>