Shortly after moving to a new town with his family, Jake Tyler (Sean Faris) finds himself bullied into fighting in a Backyard Fight, where he suffers a humiliating beating. After receiving threats to the safety of his friends and family, Jake seeks the mentoring of a veteran fighter (Djimon Hounsou), to train his mind and body for one final no-holds-barred elimination fight known as "The Beatdown" in a club with his unrelenting personal nemesis and local martial arts champion Ryan McCarthy (Cam Gigandet). They both share a love for Baja Miller (Amber Heard). After Ryan is eliminated in the semi-finals via Disqualification due to Eye-gouging, Jake taps out at the begining of his semi-final bout, believing that his purpose for entering "The Beatdown" is no longer present. Outside the club Ryan attacks Jake and a confrontation ensues. The patrons of the club hear word that the "True Finals" happening outside and abruptly exit the club to watch. Jake eventually wins the confrontation knocking out Ryan with a Jab-Cross-Roundkick Combination that is repeated throughout the film. The film ends with Jake being greeted by other youths of the area with smiles and positive responses (including Ryan). He finally meets up with Baja as they share a kiss before the credits roll.