CRYSTALIZED WORDS

The honesty from the aspiring 16-year-old boxer is what makes his triumph so relatable, and as a result so remarkable and awe-inspiring. To watch the boy feel fear before and during his training or matches, but persevere for the victory is what resonates with the audience. It is at its peak at this point in the show, after Ippo defeated the quick-footed prodigy Miyata. He won via TKO, after barely grazing Miyata’s chin.

The titular character, Ippo Makunouchi, is plagued by self-doubt throughout the genesis of his boxing career. What makes it stronger is the all-so familiar feeling: he sees Ichiro Miyata, a boy his age, be excellent at boxing while he is still noticeably raw. Miyata ends up flooring Ippo in a sparring match.