Throughout the novel, Alfred learns that he is responsible for the choices that he makes. Alfred seems to grasp this concept of accountability in Chapter 12, when he realizes that he can't blame Major for what happened at the party or at Coney Island. Alfred has made his own choices and must live with them. By the same token, Alfred chooses to continue training, to go ahead with his final bout, and to finish the fight even though he is clearly losing. Ultimately, Alfred will choose whether to flee Harlem or try to work with young people there who face the same problems he faced.
The biggest difference between Alfred and James is that Alfred, for all his doubt, genuinely believes that hope will triumph over despair. It is why he keeps trying, and it is why James quits. Alfred's fights symbolize this. Every time he gets knocked down, he gets up. He sees other boxers who quit when they are hurt, but Alfred just fights harder. Even against Hubbard, when he knows he can't win, he keeps getting up. Through his actions, Alfred says to Hubbard what he is thinking: "[Y]ou can't knock me out, nobody ever gonna knock me out, you wanna stop me you better kill me."
The novel takes its title from the most important theme, which Donatelli articulates best: "You have to start by wanting to be a contender." All of the other themes evolve from this one. By focusing on his character and progress on a daily basis, rather than just dreaming of being a champion, Alfred becomes a contender in life and can be a true friend to James. Finally, he has a place within the community and, like Donatelli, something to offer others.
