Hawk advances to the final eight competitors in the double-elimination tournament before suffering his first loss against John Grizzly, injuring his arm in the process. Afterwards, Cutler summons Hawk to his presidential suite and tells him that he has always been a loser, but offers Hawk a way out and a chance for a fresh start: $500,000 and a top of the line semi (even better than the tournament's grand prize) on the condition that he stay out of their lives for good, but Hawk refuses, vowing to retrieve Michael after the tournament. He returns to the tournament with a much tighter focus and advances to the final match against Bull Hurley, who has remained the undefeated world champion for five years. Michael then finds Hawk and apologizes for misjudging him, which gives Hawk the emotional support he needs to compete. After a titanic struggle, Hawk manages to conquer his old rival, earn his respect, and win the tournament. As Hawk and Michael celebrate, Cutler (who had followed Michael to the competition) looks on in silence and admiration for all that Hawk sacrificed to get Michael back. A triumphant Hawk and Michael take their new truck and winnings and drive off to start a new life together.