IPPO : The Ultimate Counter

Ryuu put on some worn gloves and got into the ring. In front of him, a young boxer is nervously warming up. It's Ippo Makunouchi himself. Ryuu immediately recognizes his future rival and smiles mockingly.

Ryuu: "So, are you the famous Ippo? The one who breaks the punching bags? I hope you are as good in the ring as in the legends."

Ippo, initially intimidated by Ryuu's aura, regains his composure and adopts his guard.

Ippo : "Let's have a good fight, Ryuu san"

The sparring begins. Ippo advances aggressively, using his raw strength to try to overpower Ryuu. But the latter dodges each blow with disconcerting ease. With every step forward Ippo takes, Ryuu pivots or steps back just enough to stay out of reach.

Ryuu: "Not bad, Makunouchi. You hit like a truck. But you're as predictable as an instruction manual."

Ippo attempts a left hook, but Ryuu anticipates it. He shifts a step, and before Ippo can defend himself, Ryuu places a lightning counter directly to the liver. Ippo staggers, out of breath, but he refuses to fall. Kamogawa intervenes:

Kamogawa : "That's enough! Ippo, get out of the ring."

Ryuu chuckled softly as he took off his gloves.

Ryuu: "Is that all? I expected more from a champion in the making."

Kamogawa carefully observed Ryuu. Behind his arrogance, he sees a technique and intelligence worthy of the greatest. But his casual character and lack of discipline worry him.

Kamogawa : "Listen to me carefully, kid. You're talented, I can't deny that. But if you want to make it big, you're going to need a lot more than a smile and a flashy technique."

Ryuu: "And you think you're the one who can push me to the top? Interesting. All right, Old Man. Show me what you've got."

Kamogawa sighs but accepts the challenge.

Kamogawa : "If you want to stay here, you'll first have to prove that you're worth it. And believe me, I'll give you the hard time."

Ryuu, amused, extends his hand.

Ryuu : "Deal, old master. Get ready, I'll show you what a genius is."

---

The Spark of a Legend As he leaves the gym for the night, Ryuu looks up at the stars. For the first time in a long time, he feels real excitement.

Ryuu: "Finally... Finally, a place where I can have fun. This world may have what I'm looking for."

A confident smile appears on his face. Ryuu Kaidou's legend in the world of boxing has just begun.