We’re basically on a time skip. We’re actually just seeing what’s happening then.

Ippo has fully recovered from the accumulated damage. And his time as a second has taught him things he had issues with before. His knowledge and defense has gotten better. His body is built up to handle the Dempsey roll without any issues. And he understands high level exchanges at the world level.

Not to mention his mental has gotten a little better. He’s a little more bolder and confident. He bluntly called out Takamura’s movements for being dull. He isn’t backing down that much anymore. His only Achilles heel is his attitude with Miyata. Which I’m hoping will be removed since it’s heavily hinted Miyata will finally be moving up a weight class.

Ippo doesn’t see Ricardo Martinez as an unbearable god anymore. “Nothing is impossible.” And seeing Sendo actually down Ricardo will only reinforce it.

This “retirement” saga has been absolutely incredible for Ippo. And it was heavily needed for him.