How does Robert Lipsyte use imagery in The Contender?

Lipsyte includes scenes that depict criminal activity, underage drinking, and drug use by several of the major and minor characters, but the scenes are crucial to the plot of the novel and these behaviors are consistently portrayed as dangerous and destructive. There is some moderately graphic violence, both in and outside of the boxing ring, but these scenes are handled tactfully and will not be upsetting to most young adult readers.