Hajime no Ippo

Ippo Makunouchi divides his days between school and helping his mother with the family fishing business, while repeated bullying erodes his confidence. When boxer Mamoru Takamura rescues him and brings him to a gym, Ippo discovers a path toward answering a question that has long troubled him: what does it mean to be strong?

Under coach Kamogawa, he begins demanding training that reveals his natural punching power, but soon learns that strength alone cannot win a bout. Every opponent tests his courage, patience, and ambition, while showing him the hopes and sacrifices other fighters bring into the ring.