Apolonio's life takes an unexpected turn when a circus troupe led by a strongman named Atlas arrives in town. Atlas challenges the residents to face his strength and even offers a prize for anyone who can defeat him. Apolonio, driven by a desire to reclaim his past glory and impress the beautiful Esmeralda, a girl in town, decides to confront the formidable Atlas.
Apolonio engages in intense training, following the methods that once brought him strength and athleticism. As the day of the contest approaches, the excitement builds, and the town gathers to witness the highly anticipated showdown. The match between Apolonio and Atlas is fierce, with both fighters giving their all. In a moment of heightened emotion, Apolonio manages to land a powerful blow, defeating the unbeatable Atlas.
Surprisingly, Atlas appears humble in defeat and shares a revelation with Apolonio. Atlas confesses that his strength, like Apolonio's, was an illusion created for entertainment. As they speak, Atlas succumbs to a heart attack, revealing that his seemingly superhuman physical form hid frailty and mortality.
The story ends with Apolonio contemplating his triumph and the transient nature of strength. He realizes that his victory was not only a personal achievement but also a symbolic representation of the power of determination, the resilience of the human spirit, and the acceptance that life, with all its challenges, must be embraced.