: Having no formal training, Ippo is instructed to use the "Turtle Strategy"—keeping his guard high and tight to weather Miyata's high-speed barrages.
: In the manga, Coach Kamogawa and Yagi are seen watching the famous Sugar Ray Leonard vs. Thomas Hearns match, whereas the anime focuses more on the immediate tension in the gym. Manga Guide | Wiki Ippo | Fandom Hajime no Ippo Episode 2
: Introduces Coach Genji Kamogawa , the gym's manager Haruhiko Yagi , and Ippo's lifelong rival Ichiro Miyata . Plot Summary : Having no formal training, Ippo is instructed
: While Miyata dominates the match with superior speed and technique, Ippo surprises everyone with his incredible durability and a single, devastatingly powerful punch that manages to knock Miyata down. Manga Guide | Wiki Ippo | Fandom :
In , titled " Fruits of Labor " (Japanese: Doryoku no Kesshō ), Ippo takes his first real steps into the world of boxing through his debut sparring match. Episode Overview Original Air Date : October 10, 2000
: Although Miyata technically "wins" the sparring match by points and skill, the encounter sparks a fierce rivalry. Coach Kamogawa recognizes Ippo’s raw power and fighting spirit, officially accepting him as a student. Key Techniques & Highlights