Before a boxer dies in an accident, he mentions that he should "get lost like Joe Kelly" to sportswriter Ken Cooper.

Now curious what became of Kelly, a former contender, Cooper locates him in a remote town where Joe runs a fishing lodge with his brother, Tommy.

Al Taylor, an honest trainer, handles the promising Tommy at first, until corrupt manager Larry Ellis, arena owner Max Maxwell and gambler Sam Lattimer sink their hooks into the kid.

Tommy begins winning fights and making enough money to buy Carol an expensive engagement ring.

His thugs beat up Joe and kidnap Tommy, preparing to kill him until Cooper and the cops arrive.