Joe Buck is tired of his life as a dishwasher. He leaves his home state of Texas, and becomes a hustler in New York City. As a "cowboy", his attempts of hustling rich Park Avenue women fails, and a crippled streetwalker named Enrico "Ratzo" Rizzo hustles him for twenty dollars. Determined to get his money back, Joe tracks down Ratzo, only to find his money spent. Joe takes pity on the pathetic man, and due to his unsuccessful attempt of being a hustler, Joe moves in with Ratzo in a condemned building. Ratzo assumes the role of Joe's manager, and together they attempt to break into the hustling business. Unfortunately, Joe's tormented memories from his past, Ratzo's deteriorating health, and the city's cruel and selfish ways make life for these two individuals very difficult.