Bart is beaten up at school by Jimbo, Dolph, and Kearney, who steal his high-tech belt. Homer takes matters into his own hands, confronting the assailants' fathers at Moe's. But he himself becomes a victim of their pummelings when he tries to recount the events at school. Although Homer is unable to make his point, he withstands the beating. Impressed with Homer's stamina, Moe talks him into becoming a boxer with Moe as his manager.

Homer's ability to take punches becomes his sole strategy. As his opponents knock themselves out while pounding on him, Homer fights his way up the ranks of hungry hobos. His rise catches the attention of promotor Lucius Sweet, who wants Homer to fight heavyweight champ Drederick Tatum. Moe accepts the challenge.

Before the fight, Moe promises Sweet that Homer will stay up for three rounds. He also promises Marge that he will throw in the towel as soon as Homer is in danger. When the fight begins, it is clear Homer will not last three rounds. Just as he is about to be knocked out in the first round, Mow airlifts Homer to safety.