Southpaw (2015) delivers a powerful punch of emotion, grit, and redemption, with Jake Gyllenhaal starring as a champion boxer who loses everything — and must claw his way back to the top, both in the ring and in life. With intense training montages, emotional breakdowns, and a fierce comeback story, this film pulls no punches.
Think you remember every jab, loss, and hard-won victory? Step into the ring with this 10-question trivia quiz and see if you’ve got what it takes to go the distance.
Southpaw (2015) Trivia Questions & Answers
- Who plays the role of boxer Billy Hope in Southpaw (2015)?
Correct Answer: Jake Gyllenhaal
Jake Gyllenhaal transforms physically and emotionally to portray Billy Hope, a champion boxer with a volatile temper and a painful past. His dedication to the role — including intense physical training — helped create one of his most powerful performances.
- What is Billy Hope’s profession?
Correct Answer: Professional boxer
Billy is the reigning light heavyweight champion at the beginning of the film. His aggressive, high-risk fighting style reflects his inner turmoil and sets the tone for both his victories and his losses — in and out of the ring.
- Who is Billy’s wife in the film?
Correct Answer: Maureen Hope
Maureen, played by Rachel McAdams, is Billy’s wife and emotional anchor. She supports and protects him and their daughter Leila, often acting as the calm voice of reason. Her tragic death is the emotional catalyst for Billy’s downfall and eventual rise.
- What tragic event sets Billy on a downward spiral?
Correct Answer: His wife is shot and killed
After a heated argument with a rival boxer’s entourage, Maureen is shot and killed in a hotel lobby. The sudden loss devastates Billy, triggering a spiral into depression, rage, substance abuse, and ultimately the loss of his career and family.
- What happens to Billy’s daughter after the tragedy?
Correct Answer: She is taken into protective custody
Following Billy’s breakdown and violent behavior, his daughter Leila is placed in the care of Child Protective Services. This separation drives Billy to reflect on his failures as a father and fuels his desire to redeem himself — not just in the ring, but in her eyes.
- Who trains Billy for his comeback?
Correct Answer: Tick Wills
Forest Whitaker plays Tick Wills, a former boxer and wise trainer who runs a small gym for underprivileged youth. He helps Billy rebuild from the ground up, teaching him discipline, patience, and how to control his emotions — both in the ring and in life.
- What is Tick Wills’s background?
Correct Answer: Former boxer and gym owner
Tick is a seasoned fighter who left boxing behind due to personal loss and now dedicates himself to training young fighters. His mentorship is tough but transformative, providing Billy with the structure and guidance he’s long lacked.
- What is Billy trying to win back besides his title?
Correct Answer: Custody of his daughter
More than reclaiming his title, Billy’s primary goal is to prove he can be a responsible father. His training and comeback are as much about restoring his self-worth as they are about returning to the spotlight. The emotional stakes make every fight personal.
- What is the name of the boxer who becomes Billy’s rival?
Correct Answer: Miguel Escobar
Miguel Escobar is the up-and-coming fighter whose entourage was responsible for Maureen’s death. Their climactic title fight isn’t just about belts and money — it’s Billy’s chance to confront his grief, control his rage, and prove he’s a changed man.
- What is the central theme of Southpaw?
Correct Answer: Redemption through struggle
Southpaw is a story of hitting rock bottom and clawing your way back — emotionally, mentally, and physically. It explores themes of grief, accountability, fatherhood, and the long, painful road to healing. It’s not about being undefeated — it’s about getting back up.
