What is the theme in The Challenge by Mario Vargas Llosa?

Loyalty is the main theme inthis book.Each character portrayed in "The Challenge" is loyal to either Justo or the Gimp. The battle lines are clearly drawn throughout the story, as no characters attempt to stop the fight or arbitrate the tension between the two sides. Although Briceño and Moses express doubt about Justo's ability to win the fight, they remain loyal to their friend. Loyalty is presented as something that is grounded in friendship and personal relationships rather than in a self-serving need to be on the winner's side.