underdog
/ˈʌndərˌdɔɡ/Definitions
1. noun
an athlete or team considered unlikely to win because of a lack of skill or resources, but who unexpectedly achieves success
“The underdog in the competition won the championship against all odds.”
2. noun
a person or organization that is at a disadvantage but achieves success or popularity
“The small startup was initially considered an underdog in the tech industry, but it eventually became a successful company.”
3. adjective
describing an athlete or team considered unlikely to win because of a lack of skill or resources
“The underdog team fought hard to stay in the competition.”