Chapter 1: The Burning Rebirth
Darkness.
That was the last thing he remembered.
A screech of metal. A violent crash. The blinding flash of headlights.
Then nothing.
For a long time, there was only silence.
Until suddenly—
Pain exploded through his body.
"Ghh…!"
His eyes shot open.
Cold air hit his face. The rough texture of concrete pressed against his cheek. Somewhere nearby, trash bags rustled in the wind.
He slowly lifted his head.
A narrow alley stretched around him, surrounded by old apartment buildings. Rusted pipes ran along the walls, and faded Japanese signs hung crookedly above doorways.
"Where… am I…?"
His voice sounded strange.
Younger.
Rougher.
He pushed himself up slightly, but a sharp pain shot through his ribs.
"…Tch."
That was when he noticed it.
His hands.
They were smaller.
His arms thinner.
This wasn't his body.
Suddenly—
Memories crashed into his mind like a tidal wave.
Two lives collided.
The first life belonged to him.
A normal young man who loved boxing manga and anime. Whenever he had free time, he read stories about fighters who rose from nothing.
His favorites were Hajime no Ippo and the legendary classic Ashita no Joe.
Stories about grit.
Pain.
Fighters who refused to fall.
But the second set of memories…
Belonged to this body.
A boy named Hayato Kurogane.
Sixteen years old.
An orphan.
A delinquent who survived in the rough backstreets of Tokyo.
No family.
No future.
Just fights and hunger.
"…So I really died."
Hayato sat up slowly.
"And now I'm… here?"
Before he could process it further—
A cold mechanical voice echoed inside his mind.
---
[SYSTEM ACTIVATED]
[JOE YABUKI TEMPLATE SYSTEM INITIALIZING]
---
Hayato froze.
"…A system?"
More glowing text appeared in his vision.
---
Host: Hayato Kurogane
Age: 16
Template Installed:
Joe Yabuki
Synchronization Rate: 5%
Unlocked Abilities:
• Stray Dog Instinct
• Street Brawling Talent
• Abnormal Endurance
---
His eyes widened.
Joe Yabuki?
The legendary fighter from Ashita no Joe.
A boxer known for his reckless spirit and unbreakable will.
The man who fought until his body was completely destroyed.
Hayato slowly stood up.
"This is insane…"
He flexed his fingers.
Despite the pain, he could feel something strange inside his body.
A restless energy.
Like a fire waiting to ignite.
But before he could think further—
Footsteps echoed at the entrance of the alley.
Three figures appeared.
Delinquents.
The memories of this body quickly surfaced.
These were the same guys who beat the previous Hayato nearly to death.
One of them laughed when he saw him standing.
"Well look at that."
"The punching bag woke up."
Another cracked his knuckles.
"Thought you could escape us, huh?"
Hayato sighed.
"So these guys again…"
The leader stepped forward and grabbed Hayato by the collar.
"You owe us money."
Hayato blinked.
"What money?"
The thug punched him in the stomach.
Pain exploded through his body.
Hayato staggered backward.
The other two laughed.
"Look at him!"
"Still weak as ever!"
Normally, Hayato would have been terrified.
The old Hayato always lost fights.
Always got beaten.
Always ran.
But now—
Something inside him felt different.
The system's power.
Joe Yabuki's instincts.
They stirred deep inside his muscles.
The leader swung a punch.
And suddenly—
Time seemed to slow.
Hayato's body moved on its own.
His head tilted slightly.
The punch missed his face by centimeters.
"What—?!"
Before the thug could react—
Hayato's fist shot forward.
CRACK.
A brutal counter punch slammed into the thug's jaw.
The sound echoed through the alley.
The leader's body flew backward and crashed into a pile of trash bags.
Silence.
The remaining two delinquents stared in shock.
"…What just happened?"
Hayato looked down at his fist.
"…That felt natural."
The system notification appeared again.
---
[Combat Instinct Activated]
Joe Yabuki Template Resonance Detected
---
One thug suddenly rushed forward in anger.
"You bastard!"
He threw a wild punch.
Hayato didn't step back.
Instead—
He stepped forward.
Another instinct.
A dangerous one.
Joe Yabuki's fearless style.
The punch grazed his cheek.
But Hayato didn't care.
Blood trickled from the corner of his mouth.
And he smiled.
Then—
BOOM.
His right fist exploded upward into the thug's chin.
The boy collapsed instantly.
The final delinquent stepped back nervously.
"You… you're crazy!"
Hayato wiped the blood from his lips.
"…Maybe."
He slowly approached.
Each step echoed through the alley.
The thug panicked and swung wildly.
Hayato ducked.
Then drove his fist straight into the boy's stomach.
The air exploded from the thug's lungs.
He collapsed beside the others.
The alley fell silent.
Hayato stood there, breathing heavily.
His body hurt everywhere.
But strangely…
He felt alive.
More alive than ever before.
"…So this is Joe Yabuki's instinct."
A notification appeared again.
---
[Victory Detected]
Template Synchronization Increased
SYNC RATE: 8%
---
Hayato grinned.
"Not bad."
Just then—
A slow clapping sound echoed from the alley entrance.
Hayato turned.
A tall man stood there.
Broad shoulders.
Wild hair.
Sharp predator-like eyes.
Even without memories, Hayato would have recognized him instantly.
Because this man was a legend.
The unstoppable champion of the Kamogawa Gym.
Mamoru Takamura.
Takamura stepped into the alley, looking at the unconscious delinquents.
"…You did this?"
Hayato shrugged.
"They started it."
Takamura looked at him carefully.
Then suddenly grinned.
"That punch earlier."
"That was a counter."
Hayato tilted his head.
"…Was it?"
Takamura burst out laughing.
"Hahaha!"
"You don't even know what you're doing!"
He walked closer.
Then suddenly asked—
"You ever thought about boxing?"
Hayato froze.
Boxing.
The word sent a strange excitement through his chest.
Images filled his mind.
The boxing ring.
The roar of the crowd.
The clash of fists.
The spirit of fighters who burned everything for victory.
Including the young champion of the featherweight division—
Ippo Makunouchi.
Hayato clenched his fists.
"…Yeah."
"I think I'd like that."
Takamura smirked.
"Good answer."
Then he pointed behind him.
"Follow me."
Hayato stepped out of the alley.
Across the street stood a modest building.
But Hayato knew exactly what it was.
The legendary gym that produced champions.
The place where countless fighters shed blood and sweat.
The Kamogawa Boxing Gym.
Hayato's heart pounded.
Inside that building—
His new life would begin.
A life of punches.
Pain.
And glory.
Takamura opened the door and glanced back.
"Come on, stray dog."
"Let's see if you can actually fight."
Hayato smiled.
A wild smile.
The kind only reckless fighters wore.
The fire of Joe Yabuki burned in his veins.
And the boxing world was about to gain a new monster.
As he stepped toward the gym—
The system spoke again.
---
[NEW QUEST ACTIVATED]
Enter Kamogawa Gym.
Reward:
Joe Yabuki Template Synchronization +5%
---
Hayato cracked his knuckles.
"…Alright."
"Let's begin."
And with that step—
The legend of a burning boxer was born.
Chapter 2: The Gym of Champions
The wooden door creaked open.
Hayato stepped inside slowly, his eyes scanning the interior of the gym.
The smell hit him first.
Sweat.
Leather.
Metal.
It was the unmistakable scent of a boxing gym.
The room wasn't fancy. The walls were old and slightly worn. Posters of past boxing matches decorated the walls, and framed photos of champions hung proudly above them.
A boxing ring stood at the center of the room like a sacred arena.
Punching bags swayed gently from the ceiling.
Skipping ropes slapped rhythmically against the floor somewhere in the back.
But what truly captured Hayato's attention was the atmosphere.
This place breathed fighting spirit.
The home of warriors.
The legendary Kamogawa Gym.
Hayato felt a strange excitement bubbling inside his chest.
"So this is the place…"
Behind him, a deep voice spoke.
"Oi, don't just stand there like an idiot."
Hayato turned.
Towering behind him was the massive figure of Mamoru Takamura.
Takamura stretched his arms lazily.
"You said you wanted to box, right?"
Hayato shrugged.
"Yeah."
Takamura looked him up and down.
"You don't look like much."
Hayato smirked.
"You watched the fight."
Takamura grinned widely.
"Haha! True."
Then his eyes suddenly sharpened.
"But street fights and boxing are completely different."
He pointed toward the ring.
"You'll find out soon enough."
Just then—
Another voice came from the far side of the gym.
"Ah, Takamura-san?"
A young man jogged toward them.
Short black hair.
Kind eyes.
A humble posture.
The moment Hayato saw him, recognition struck.
This was the rising featherweight star.
The future Japanese champion.
Ippo Makunouchi.
Ippo stopped when he noticed Hayato.
"Oh! Are you new here?"
Hayato nodded slightly.
"…Something like that."
Ippo smiled warmly and bowed slightly.
"My name is Ippo Makunouchi. Nice to meet you!"
Hayato scratched the back of his head.
"Hayato Kurogane."
Ippo blinked.
"Nice name!"
Takamura snorted.
"Don't get friendly yet, Ippo."
He pointed at Hayato.
"This brat says he wants to box."
Ippo's eyes lit up.
"Really?!"
Hayato nodded.
"Yeah."
Ippo smiled again.
"That's great! Boxing is amazing! Once you start training, you'll really love—"
"Hold it."
A deep, old voice interrupted them.
The air in the gym suddenly felt heavier.
Slow footsteps echoed.
From the office in the corner walked an elderly man with a powerful aura.
His body was aged, but the strength hidden beneath his wrinkled skin was unmistakable.
This man was a legend in the boxing world.
The trainer who created champions.
The man who shaped both Takamura and Ippo.
Genji Kamogawa.
Coach Kamogawa stopped in front of Hayato.
His sharp eyes studied the boy carefully.
"So this is the kid you brought, Takamura?"
Takamura shrugged.
"Found him beating up three delinquents in an alley."
Kamogawa raised an eyebrow.
"Oh?"
His gaze moved toward Hayato.
"You want to box?"
Hayato nodded.
"Yes."
Kamogawa crossed his arms.
"Why?"
Hayato paused.
It was a simple question.
But the answer mattered.
He could lie.
He could say he wanted fame.
Or money.
But the truth came from somewhere deeper.
"…Because I want to fight."
Kamogawa's eyes narrowed slightly.
"Fight?"
Hayato looked toward the boxing ring.
"Something inside me feels alive when I throw punches."
"I want to see how far I can go."
Silence filled the gym.
Then suddenly—
Takamura burst out laughing.
"Hahaha! I like this kid!"
Ippo scratched his head awkwardly.
"He's very passionate…"
Kamogawa remained silent for a moment.
Then he spoke.
"Passion alone isn't enough."
He pointed toward the ring.
"If you want to box here…"
"You must prove you deserve it."
Hayato's eyes lit up.
"…How?"
Kamogawa turned toward Ippo.
"Makunouchi."
Ippo jumped slightly.
"Yes, Coach!"
"Spar with him."
Hayato blinked.
"Spar?"
Takamura smirked.
"Oh this will be fun."
Ippo looked a little nervous.
"A-Are you sure, Coach?"
Kamogawa nodded.
"Light spar."
Then he looked at Hayato.
"Let me see what kind of fighter you are."
Hayato slowly stepped toward the ring.
Inside his mind—
The system suddenly activated.
---
[NEW CHALLENGE DETECTED]
Opponent:
Ippo Makunouchi
Difficulty: EXTREME
Reward:
Template Synchronization +3%
---
Hayato grinned.
"Perfect."
Moments later—
Both fighters stood inside the ring.
Hayato wore simple training gloves.
Across from him stood Ippo.
Even in a light spar, Hayato could feel the pressure radiating from him.
This was a real boxer.
A national-level fighter.
Takamura leaned against the ropes.
"Alright!"
"Begin!"
Ippo bowed slightly.
"Please take care of me!"
Hayato raised his fists.
The moment the spar started—
Ippo moved.
Fast.
His footwork was smooth and balanced.
Hayato instantly realized something.
This guy was dangerous.
Ippo threw a quick jab.
Hayato slipped it instinctively.
Then Ippo threw another.
And another.
Each punch was sharp and precise.
Hayato struggled to keep up.
Inside his mind—
Joe Yabuki's instincts whispered.
Move.
Slip.
Counter.
Ippo stepped forward again.
Hayato leaned sideways.
The punch barely missed.
And then—
Hayato's fist shot forward.
CRACK.
The glove tapped Ippo's cheek.
Takamura's eyes widened slightly.
"Oh?"
Ippo stepped back in surprise.
"That was a nice counter!"
Hayato grinned.
"I guess I'm lucky."
But Ippo's expression became serious.
"Then I'll try harder."
Suddenly—
Ippo's stance changed.
His body shifted lower.
Hayato immediately recognized it.
The peek-a-boo style.
The stance used by Mike Tyson.
The style that made Ippo terrifying.
Hayato's instincts screamed.
Danger.
Ippo lunged forward.
BOOM.
A powerful body blow slammed into Hayato's ribs.
Pain exploded through his body.
"Ghh!"
He staggered backward.
Ippo quickly stepped back.
"S-Sorry! I didn't mean to hit so hard!"
Hayato coughed.
"…It's fine."
But inside—
He was excited.
His heart pounded wildly.
This was real boxing.
Real power.
Real danger.
He raised his fists again.
"Let's keep going."
Ippo blinked.
"…You're tough."
The spar continued.
Ippo's punches were precise and powerful.
Hayato was clearly outclassed.
But something strange happened.
Despite taking hits—
Hayato kept smiling.
The more he fought—
The more his instincts awakened.
Joe Yabuki's reckless spirit was rising.
Hayato slipped another jab.
Then suddenly stepped inside.
His fist flew forward.
BOOM.
A clean counter struck Ippo's cheek.
Ippo stumbled back in surprise.
Takamura whistled.
"Well well…"
"Not bad."
Kamogawa's eyes narrowed thoughtfully.
"Interesting…"
The spar ended shortly after.
Hayato collapsed onto the ring floor, breathing heavily.
Every muscle in his body screamed with pain.
But he laughed.
"That was amazing…"
The system notification appeared again.
---
[SPARRING COMPLETED]
Template Synchronization Increased.
Current Sync Rate: 11%
---
Kamogawa stepped toward the ring.
He looked down at Hayato.
"You lack technique."
"You lack discipline."
"You lack fundamentals."
Hayato scratched his head.
"…That bad, huh?"
Kamogawa's expression suddenly softened slightly.
"But…"
"You have fighting instinct."
Takamura grinned.
"Coach likes him."
Ippo smiled warmly.
"You did great for your first spar!"
Kamogawa turned away.
"Report tomorrow morning."
Hayato blinked.
"…What?"
Kamogawa glanced back.
"Training begins at 5 AM."
"If you survive the training…"
"Then you may become a boxer here."
Hayato slowly stood up.
His heart pounded with excitement.
"…Yes, Coach."
As he stepped out of the ring—
The system activated again.
---
[MAIN QUEST UNLOCKED]
Become a professional boxer.
Template Evolution Progress Started.
---
Hayato clenched his fists.
A wild grin spread across his face.
The road ahead would be brutal.
Painful.
Unforgiving.
But he welcomed it.
Because the fire of Joe Yabuki burned inside him.
And one day—
That fire would shake the entire boxing world.
Chapter 3: The Brutal Beginning
The sky was still dark when Hayato Kurogane arrived.
Cold morning air brushed against his face as he stood outside the small building that had already begun to change his life.
The Kamogawa Boxing Gym.
The windows were dimly lit from inside, and the faint sound of ropes hitting the floor echoed through the quiet street.
Slap. Slap. Slap.
Hayato rubbed the back of his neck.
"…Five in the morning. Who trains at this hour?"
Then he remembered.
This was the gym that created monsters.
The home of champions like Mamoru Takamura and the rising featherweight star Ippo Makunouchi.
A place where weakness was burned away through sweat and pain.
Hayato pushed open the door.
The gym was already alive.
Ippo stood near the ring, skipping rope with perfect rhythm.
Slap. Slap. Slap.
His feet barely touched the ground as he moved with smooth efficiency.
"Good morning!" Ippo said cheerfully when he noticed Hayato.
Hayato blinked.
"…You've already been training?"
Ippo smiled shyly.
"I started an hour ago."
Hayato's mouth twitched.
"An hour?!"
Before he could complain further—
A familiar rough voice echoed across the gym.
"You're late."
Hayato turned.
Standing near the heavy bags was the old coach himself.
The legendary trainer of the gym.
Genji Kamogawa.
His sharp eyes glared at Hayato like a hawk observing prey.
"It's already five."
Hayato scratched his head.
"…I thought five meant arriving at five."
Kamogawa snorted.
"In this gym, five means you start training at five."
Hayato sighed.
"Got it."
Suddenly—
A large arm wrapped around Hayato's shoulders.
"Well well!"
Hayato turned and saw the giant grin of Mamoru Takamura.
"Looks like the stray dog survived the night!"
Hayato shrugged.
"You sound disappointed."
Takamura laughed loudly.
"Hahaha! I'd never miss the chance to watch you suffer during training!"
Kamogawa clapped his hands once.
"Enough talking."
He pointed toward the door.
"Makunouchi."
"Yes, Coach!"
"Take him on the morning run."
Ippo nodded eagerly.
"Right!"
Hayato blinked.
"Run?"
Kamogawa nodded.
"Ten kilometers."
Hayato froze.
"…Ten?"
Takamura smirked.
"Better start moving, rookie."
A few minutes later—
Hayato and Ippo were running through the quiet streets.
The sun had barely begun to rise.
At first, the pace felt manageable.
But after five minutes—
Hayato realized something.
Ippo wasn't slowing down.
Not even slightly.
"…Are you serious?" Hayato muttered.
Ippo jogged comfortably beside him.
"You okay?"
Hayato forced a grin.
"Of course."
Inside—
His lungs were already burning.
His legs felt heavy.
But something strange happened.
Despite the pain—
His body refused to quit.
A system notification appeared.
---
[Passive Skill Activated]
Stray Dog Endurance
Effect: Increased stamina under extreme conditions.
---
Hayato chuckled.
"…Guess I won't collapse that easily."
By the time they returned to the gym—
Hayato's shirt was soaked in sweat.
He collapsed onto the floor.
"Why… is this… the warm-up…?"
Ippo wiped his forehead.
"It helps build stamina!"
Takamura leaned against the wall laughing.
"Hahaha! You look like you're dying!"
Hayato glared at him.
"Try running ten kilometers."
Takamura shrugged.
"I run fifteen."
Hayato groaned.
Kamogawa approached them.
"Stop resting."
Hayato lifted his head.
"…What?"
Kamogawa pointed at the heavy bags.
"Training continues."
Hayato sighed deeply and stood up.
"This place is hell."
For the next two hours—
Training pushed Hayato to his limits.
Skipping rope.
Shadow boxing.
Heavy bag drills.
Core exercises.
Every muscle in his body screamed with exhaustion.
But each time he felt like collapsing—
That strange instinct inside him kept pushing forward.
Joe Yabuki's relentless spirit.
At one point—
Hayato punched the heavy bag repeatedly.
THUD.
THUD.
THUD.
His punches weren't perfect.
But they carried surprising power.
Takamura watched with interest.
"Not bad."
Kamogawa nodded slightly.
"He has natural fighting instinct."
Just then—
Hayato's fist slammed into the bag again.
BOOM.
The bag swung wildly.
Hayato stepped back, breathing heavily.
Inside his mind—
The system activated again.
---
[Training Progress Recorded]
Joe Yabuki Template Sync Increased
Current Synchronization: 13%
---
Hayato smiled slightly.
"Nice."
But the moment of satisfaction didn't last long.
Because suddenly—
Takamura stepped into the ring.
He stretched his arms lazily.
"Alright."
Hayato looked up.
"…What?"
Takamura grinned like a predator.
"Time for another test."
Ippo's eyes widened.
"T-Takamura-san, are you going to spar him?!"
Takamura laughed.
"Relax."
"I'll go easy."
Hayato sighed.
"That's exactly what scary people say."
Moments later—
Hayato stood inside the ring again.
Across from him was the monstrous world champion.
Even without fighting—
The pressure from Takamura felt overwhelming.
Takamura raised his fists lazily.
"Come on, stray dog."
"Show me what you've got."
Hayato inhaled deeply.
Then stepped forward.
His instincts kicked in.
Joe Yabuki's wild fighting style.
He threw a fast jab.
Takamura casually dodged it.
"Too slow."
Hayato followed with a hook.
Takamura leaned back effortlessly.
Then—
THUMP.
A light punch tapped Hayato's forehead.
Hayato stumbled backward.
"…What the hell?"
Takamura smirked.
"That was just a tap."
Hayato wiped his nose.
"…You're ridiculous."
Takamura laughed.
"Welcome to real boxing."
Hayato narrowed his eyes.
If normal punches wouldn't work—
Then he would rely on instinct.
Takamura stepped forward again.
Hayato suddenly moved sideways.
The moment Takamura threw a punch—
Hayato's body reacted.
He twisted his torso.
His fist shot forward.
A perfect counter.
CRACK.
The punch actually touched Takamura's cheek.
Silence filled the gym.
Takamura blinked.
Then slowly smiled.
"Well now…"
"Didn't expect that."
Outside the ring—
Kamogawa's eyes sharpened.
"…A counter."
Ippo looked amazed.
"That's incredible…"
Takamura rubbed his cheek.
Then burst out laughing.
"Hahaha!"
"This kid is interesting!"
The spar ended shortly after.
Hayato collapsed onto the canvas again.
His chest rose and fell rapidly.
"Everything… hurts…"
The system appeared once more.
---
[Major Training Event Completed]
New Skill Unlocked.
Joe Yabuki Combat Instinct: Level 1
Synchronization Rate: 15%
---
Hayato smiled weakly.
"…Worth it."
Kamogawa looked down at him.
"You're reckless."
Hayato laughed slightly.
"Is that bad?"
Kamogawa shook his head.
"Not for a fighter."
He turned away.
"Training continues tomorrow."
Hayato groaned.
"…Of course it does."
As he lay on the canvas staring at the ceiling—
Hayato felt something burning inside him.
The fire of a boxer.
The reckless spirit of Joe Yabuki.
And this was only the beginning.
The stray dog had entered the ring.
Soon—
He would become a monster.
Chapter 4: The First Lesson of Pain
The morning sun had barely risen when Hayato Kurogane stepped into the gym again.
His entire body ached.
Every muscle protested with sharp pain the moment he moved.
His legs felt like they were made of stone, and even lifting his arms felt exhausting.
"…Why does everything hurt so much?" Hayato muttered.
The answer came immediately.
"Because you trained like garbage yesterday."
Hayato turned and saw the large silhouette leaning against the wall.
It was Mamoru Takamura.
The giant boxer yawned lazily while scratching his head.
"You use too many unnecessary muscles when punching," Takamura continued. "That's why your whole body is sore."
Hayato sighed.
"…Helpful advice."
Takamura grinned.
"Don't worry. Today will hurt even more."
Hayato stared at him.
"You're enjoying this way too much."
Inside the gym, the familiar sounds of training echoed.
Slap. Slap. Slap.
Skipping ropes hitting the floor.
Heavy bags swinging back and forth.
And near the ring, Ippo Makunouchi was already working on shadowboxing.
His movements were smooth and disciplined.
Every jab and hook cut through the air with sharp precision.
Hayato leaned against the wall and watched him.
"…He makes it look easy."
Takamura chuckled.
"That's because he's been doing this for years."
Ippo suddenly noticed them and jogged over.
"Good morning!"
Hayato nodded.
"…Morning."
Ippo looked slightly concerned.
"Are you okay? You look really tired."
Hayato rubbed his sore shoulders.
"I feel like a truck ran over me."
Takamura burst out laughing.
"Hahaha! That's just day two!"
Before Hayato could respond—
A heavy thud echoed across the gym.
The sound of a cane striking the floor.
Both fighters instantly straightened their posture.
The coach had arrived.
The legendary trainer of the gym.
Genji Kamogawa.
Kamogawa's sharp eyes scanned the gym before stopping on Hayato.
"You came back."
Hayato shrugged.
"…You told me to."
Kamogawa grunted.
"Good."
He walked closer and crossed his arms.
"Today we start real training."
Hayato blinked.
"…Yesterday wasn't real training?"
Takamura smirked.
"That was the warm-up."
Hayato stared at him in disbelief.
"You're joking."
Kamogawa ignored the complaint and pointed toward the corner of the gym.
"Footwork drills."
Hayato followed his finger and saw a set of tape markings on the floor.
Boxes.
Lines.
Circles.
"What is that?" Hayato asked.
Ippo smiled.
"Footwork practice!"
Hayato sighed.
"Of course."
Kamogawa spoke again.
"A boxer's strength doesn't come from his arms."
"It comes from his legs."
He tapped the floor with his cane.
"If your feet are slow… your punches will be slow."
Hayato stepped onto the taped squares.
"…Alright."
Kamogawa demonstrated the movement once.
A simple step.
Slide.
Pivot.
But the moment Hayato tried it—
He stumbled immediately.
"…This is harder than it looks."
Takamura laughed loudly.
"Hahaha! Your balance is terrible!"
Hayato glared at him.
"Why don't you try it?"
Takamura instantly stepped onto the floor pattern.
His movements were flawless.
Smooth.
Effortless.
Like a predator gliding across the ground.
Hayato sighed.
"…Never mind."
For the next hour—
Hayato practiced footwork.
Step.
Slide.
Pivot.
Again.
Again.
Again.
At first his movements were clumsy.
But slowly—
His body began to adjust.
The instincts from Joe Yabuki started guiding his motion.
A system notification appeared.
---
[Training Progress Recorded]
Footwork Efficiency Increased.
Template Synchronization: 16%
---
Hayato wiped sweat from his forehead.
"…Guess I'm improving."
Kamogawa nodded slightly.
"Your instincts are good."
"But instincts alone will get you killed in the ring."
Hayato chuckled.
"…Comforting."
The coach turned toward Ippo.
"Makunouchi."
"Yes, Coach!"
"Pad training."
Ippo quickly grabbed a pair of focus mitts.
Hayato blinked.
"…What's pad training?"
Takamura smirked.
"You're about to find out."
Hayato stepped in front of Ippo.
Ippo raised the pads.
"Okay! Try punching these!"
Hayato threw a jab.
SMACK.
The sound echoed sharply.
Ippo nodded.
"Good! Now a one-two!"
Hayato punched again.
SMACK! SMACK!
At first it felt simple.
But soon—
Ippo began moving the pads faster.
"Jab! Hook! Cross!"
Hayato tried to keep up.
Punch after punch flew from his fists.
But the speed kept increasing.
His shoulders began to burn.
His breathing became heavy.
"Don't stop!" Ippo encouraged.
Hayato gritted his teeth.
His body screamed for rest.
But Joe Yabuki's fighting spirit pushed him forward.
Punch.
Punch.
Punch.
The system activated again.
---
[Skill Development Detected]
Combat Instinct Improving.
Synchronization Rate: 18%
---
Finally—
Kamogawa raised his hand.
"Enough."
Hayato dropped his gloves and collapsed onto the bench.
"…I hate boxing."
Takamura burst out laughing.
"Hahaha! Yesterday you said you loved it!"
Hayato wiped sweat from his face.
"…That was before today."
Ippo chuckled nervously.
"But you're improving really fast."
Hayato sat up.
"…Really?"
Ippo nodded.
"Your counters are especially good."
Kamogawa spoke again.
"That's because he doesn't think."
Hayato blinked.
"…Excuse me?"
Kamogawa pointed at his head.
"You rely on instinct."
"It's dangerous."
"But powerful."
Hayato leaned back against the wall.
"…I'll take that as a compliment."
Just then—
The gym door opened.
Another boxer stepped inside.
He was taller than Hayato.
Lean.
Sharp eyes.
The newcomer glanced at Hayato curiously.
"Who's the rookie?"
Takamura grinned.
"New punching bag."
Hayato rolled his eyes.
"…Very funny."
Kamogawa pointed toward the ring again.
"You two."
Hayato looked up.
"…Again?"
Kamogawa nodded.
"Light spar."
The new boxer stepped into the ring confidently.
Hayato followed.
As the bell rang—
The fight began.
The opponent moved quickly.
His jab shot forward.
Hayato slipped it instinctively.
Then—
His body moved.
A sudden counter punch.
CRACK.
The glove struck the opponent's cheek.
The entire gym went silent.
Takamura whistled.
"Well damn."
Kamogawa's eyes narrowed.
"…That counter again."
Hayato stood there breathing heavily.
His instincts were growing stronger.
The reckless spirit of Joe Yabuki continued to awaken.
Inside his mind—
The system announced another update.
---
[New Skill Approaching Unlock]
Cross Counter Technique Progress: 35%
---
Hayato smiled slightly.
"…Now that sounds interesting."
He raised his fists again.
The pain in his body didn't matter anymore.
Because for the first time in his life—
He felt like he belonged somewhere.
Inside this ring.
Inside this gym.
On the path of a boxer.
And one day—
That reckless flame inside him would burn brighter than anyone else's.
Chapter 5: The Awakening Counter
The gym was louder than usual that afternoon.
The rhythmic sounds of punching bags being struck echoed across the room like distant thunder.
THUD.
THUD.
THUD.
Sweat filled the air as fighters continued their training under the watchful eyes of the legendary coach, Genji Kamogawa.
Inside the ring, Hayato Kurogane stood with his gloves raised.
Across from him was the taller boxer who had just entered the gym earlier that day.
The man's name was Saito.
One of the intermediate fighters training at Kamogawa Gym.
He wasn't a professional yet, but compared to Hayato, he had far more boxing experience.
Saito bounced lightly on his feet.
"You're the new guy, right?"
Hayato shrugged.
"Yeah."
Saito smiled slightly.
"Don't worry. I'll go easy on you."
Outside the ring, Mamoru Takamura leaned against the ropes with an amused grin.
"Oh boy… here we go."
Beside him, Ippo Makunouchi watched nervously.
"I hope Hayato is okay…"
Kamogawa stood quietly with his arms crossed.
His eyes were sharp as he observed the fighters.
Inside the ring, the sparring bell rang.
DING.
Saito moved first.
His jab shot forward with practiced speed.
Hayato slipped slightly to the side.
Joe Yabuki's instinct whispered in his mind.
Move.
Watch.
Wait.
Saito threw another jab.
Hayato leaned back just enough for the glove to brush past his nose.
Saito's eyebrows raised.
"Not bad."
He stepped forward and launched a quick combination.
Jab.
Cross.
Hook.
Hayato blocked the first punch but the second struck his shoulder.
The hook grazed his cheek.
He staggered slightly.
Outside the ring, Takamura chuckled.
"See? Boxing isn't street fighting."
Hayato wiped the sweat from his chin.
"…I'm noticing that."
Saito pressed forward.
His punches were faster now.
Hayato moved carefully.
He couldn't outbox someone with more experience.
But he could rely on something else.
Instinct.
His eyes focused on Saito's shoulders.
The slight shift of weight.
The tension before a punch.
Joe Yabuki's combat sense was slowly guiding him.
Saito threw another jab.
Hayato slipped.
Then suddenly—
His fist shot forward.
CRACK.
The counter punch landed cleanly on Saito's cheek.
Saito stumbled back in surprise.
Outside the ring, Takamura raised an eyebrow.
"Oh?"
Ippo's eyes widened.
"That counter again!"
Kamogawa remained silent, but his gaze sharpened.
Inside the ring, Saito touched his cheek and laughed.
"You're pretty good for a beginner."
Hayato shrugged.
"…Lucky punch."
But inside his mind—
The system activated.
---
[Skill Development Detected]
Counter Timing Improved
Joe Yabuki Template Synchronization: 20%
Cross Counter Progress: 42%
---
Hayato's heartbeat quickened.
He could feel something forming.
A technique.
A dangerous one.
The same move that made Joe Yabuki famous.
The Cross Counter.
But he wasn't there yet.
Saito adjusted his stance.
"Let's get serious."
Hayato sighed.
"…That wasn't serious?"
Saito rushed forward.
This time his punches were faster.
Jab.
Jab.
Cross.
Hayato blocked the first punch.
The second jab slipped past his guard and hit his nose.
Pain exploded across his face.
Blood trickled down his lip.
Before he could recover—
Saito's hook smashed into his ribs.
THUD.
Hayato gasped and stumbled backward.
Outside the ring, Ippo looked worried.
"Hayato!"
Takamura grinned.
"Good. He needs to learn."
Inside the ring, Saito stepped back slightly.
"You okay?"
Hayato wiped the blood from his nose.
"…Yeah."
But his breathing had grown heavier.
This opponent was stronger.
Faster.
More experienced.
Joe Yabuki's reckless instinct whispered again.
Fight back.
Hayato stepped forward.
He threw a jab.
Saito blocked it easily.
Another punch followed.
This time Saito dodged.
Then he countered.
SMACK.
The glove slammed into Hayato's cheek.
Hayato staggered again.
His vision blurred for a moment.
Outside the ring, Kamogawa finally spoke.
"Observe carefully."
Takamura glanced at him.
"Hm?"
Kamogawa pointed toward Hayato.
"That boy doesn't retreat."
Inside the ring, Hayato steadied himself.
His legs were shaking slightly.
But he smiled.
"…That actually hurt."
Saito looked confused.
"Why are you smiling?"
Hayato raised his fists again.
"Because now I know your rhythm."
Saito blinked.
"…What?"
Hayato stepped forward.
The moment Saito threw another punch—
Hayato moved.
His head slipped to the side.
His right shoulder twisted.
His fist launched forward.
For a split second—
Both punches traveled toward each other.
The system flashed violently.
---
[TECHNIQUE NEARING COMPLETION]
Cross Counter Progress: 80%
---
Hayato's instincts screamed.
Now.
His punch collided with Saito's face at the exact moment Saito's punch brushed past his cheek.
CRACK.
The impact echoed through the gym.
Saito's head snapped backward.
He stumbled several steps before falling onto the canvas.
The gym fell silent.
Ippo stared in shock.
"…He did it."
Takamura's grin widened.
"Well damn."
Kamogawa's eyes gleamed with interest.
Inside the ring, Hayato stood there breathing heavily.
His knuckles trembled slightly.
The system appeared again.
---
[NEW TECHNIQUE UNLOCKED]
Cross Counter – Level 1
Synchronization Rate: 23%
---
Hayato exhaled slowly.
"…So that's the Cross Counter."
Saito sat up, rubbing his jaw.
"That punch…"
He laughed weakly.
"You're dangerous."
Hayato helped him stand.
"Sorry."
Saito shook his head.
"No, that was amazing."
Outside the ring, Kamogawa turned away.
"Training ends for today."
Hayato blinked.
"…That's it?"
Takamura jumped into the ring and slapped Hayato's back.
"Congratulations, rookie!"
Hayato nearly collapsed from the impact.
"HEY!"
Takamura laughed loudly.
"Hahaha! That counter was beautiful!"
Ippo approached with bright eyes.
"That was incredible!"
Hayato scratched his head awkwardly.
"…Thanks."
But inside—
He could feel the fire growing stronger.
Joe Yabuki's fighting spirit was awakening.
And the Cross Counter was only the beginning.
As he stepped out of the ring—
The system delivered another message.
---
[NEW QUEST]
Win your first official amateur match.
Reward:
Template Synchronization +10%
---
Hayato looked toward the boxing ring.
His fists tightened slowly.
"…Alright."
A new goal had appeared.
His first real fight.
And the beginning of his journey as a true boxer.
Chapter 6: The Rookie's First Trial
The next morning arrived faster than Hayato expected.
His body still felt like it had been crushed by a truck.
Every muscle protested when he moved.
His ribs were sore from Saito's punches, his shoulders burned from endless pad training, and his legs still ached from the daily ten-kilometer runs.
"…Why do boxers do this to themselves?" Hayato muttered as he slowly pushed open the door to the gym.
The familiar smell of sweat and leather greeted him immediately.
Inside the Kamogawa Boxing Gym, the sound of rope skipping echoed once again.
Slap.
Slap.
Slap.
As usual, Ippo Makunouchi was already training.
His feet moved rhythmically, his breathing steady as he skipped rope with flawless timing.
Hayato leaned against the wall and watched him.
"…You really start early every day."
Ippo stopped and smiled warmly.
"Oh! Good morning!"
Hayato waved lazily.
"Morning."
Ippo noticed the bruises on Hayato's face and looked slightly concerned.
"Your cheek still looks swollen…"
Hayato touched it and winced.
"…Yeah. Yesterday's spar was rough."
Ippo scratched the back of his head awkwardly.
"That Cross Counter though… it was really amazing."
Hayato shrugged.
"…I got lucky."
Before the conversation could continue—
A loud voice suddenly echoed across the gym.
"LUCK?!"
Both of them turned.
Standing near the entrance with a huge grin was the giant boxer of the gym.
The unstoppable champion.
Mamoru Takamura.
Takamura walked over and casually flicked Hayato's forehead.
"That wasn't luck."
Hayato rubbed his forehead.
"…Ow."
Takamura crossed his arms.
"That was instinct."
He leaned closer.
"And instinct like that is dangerous."
Hayato raised an eyebrow.
"…Dangerous?"
Takamura grinned.
"For your opponents."
Before Hayato could reply—
The heavy tapping sound of a cane echoed through the gym.
The atmosphere instantly became serious.
Coach Genji Kamogawa had arrived.
His sharp eyes scanned the room before stopping on Hayato.
"You."
Hayato straightened.
"…Yes?"
Kamogawa pointed toward the ring.
"Come here."
Hayato walked toward the ring, feeling slightly nervous.
Takamura and Ippo followed curiously.
When Hayato reached the center of the ring, Kamogawa spoke.
"You said you wanted to become a boxer."
Hayato nodded.
"Yes."
Kamogawa's gaze hardened.
"Then it's time for your first trial."
Hayato blinked.
"…Trial?"
Takamura smirked.
"Oh boy."
Ippo looked confused.
"What kind of trial, Coach?"
Kamogawa answered calmly.
"Three-round spar."
Hayato tilted his head.
"…That doesn't sound too bad."
Kamogawa continued.
"Against him."
The coach pointed toward the gym entrance.
Another boxer stepped inside.
He was around Hayato's age but noticeably bigger.
Broad shoulders.
Strong arms.
A confident expression.
Hayato frowned slightly.
"…Who's that?"
Ippo whispered beside him.
"That's Tanaka."
"T-Tanaka?"
"He's another rookie," Ippo explained, "but he used to wrestle in high school."
Hayato looked back at the newcomer.
Tanaka climbed into the ring and cracked his neck.
"So you're the new guy."
Hayato shrugged.
"Guess so."
Tanaka smirked.
"Coach says you're talented."
Hayato raised an eyebrow.
"He said that?"
Kamogawa spoke immediately.
"I never said that."
Takamura burst out laughing.
"Hahaha!"
Tanaka raised his gloves.
"Don't worry."
"I'll go easy on you."
Hayato sighed.
"…Why does everyone keep saying that?"
The sparring bell rang.
DING.
Tanaka moved first.
Unlike Saito, his boxing wasn't technical.
But his punches were heavy.
The first jab shot forward like a hammer.
Hayato slipped slightly to the side.
Joe Yabuki's instincts whispered in his mind.
Watch.
Wait.
Counter.
Tanaka threw another punch.
This time it was a hook.
Hayato ducked.
But the wind from the punch alone was strong enough to make him step back.
"…Okay," Hayato muttered.
"That guy hits hard."
Outside the ring, Takamura nodded.
"Wrestlers usually have ridiculous strength."
Ippo clenched his fists nervously.
"Hayato has to be careful…"
Inside the ring, Tanaka rushed forward again.
His punches were wild but powerful.
Hayato blocked the first two hits.
But the third punch smashed into his ribs.
THUD.
Hayato gasped.
Pain shot through his side.
Tanaka grinned.
"Too slow!"
He followed up with another hook.
Hayato barely slipped under it.
Joe Yabuki's instinct suddenly flared.
Now.
Hayato twisted his torso and fired a counter punch.
CRACK.
The glove struck Tanaka's cheek.
Tanaka stumbled slightly but didn't fall.
He wiped his mouth and laughed.
"Nice punch."
Then he rushed forward again.
Hayato stepped back quickly.
This opponent was very different from Saito.
Tanaka didn't care about technique.
He just kept attacking.
Punch after punch flew toward Hayato.
Hayato blocked what he could.
But some punches still slipped through.
One struck his shoulder.
Another grazed his chin.
His vision shook slightly.
Outside the ring, Kamogawa spoke quietly.
"He's being overwhelmed."
Takamura crossed his arms.
"Yeah… but look closer."
Kamogawa narrowed his eyes.
Inside the ring, Hayato's breathing grew heavier.
But his eyes remained calm.
He was studying Tanaka's movements.
The rhythm of his punches.
The slight delay before each hook.
Joe Yabuki's instinct was analyzing everything.
Tanaka threw another heavy right.
Hayato slipped.
Tanaka followed with a left hook.
Hayato ducked.
Then—
His fist shot forward.
BOOM.
A sharp counter landed on Tanaka's nose.
Blood sprayed slightly.
Tanaka stepped back in shock.
"What the—"
Outside the ring, Takamura grinned.
"There it is."
Hayato raised his fists again.
His breathing was rough.
But a wild smile appeared on his face.
"…You're wide open when you throw that hook."
Tanaka wiped the blood from his nose.
His expression changed.
"Oh?"
He grinned.
"Then let's see if you can keep up."
The bell rang for the second round.
DING.
Tanaka rushed forward even more aggressively.
Hayato's body moved almost automatically now.
Slip.
Duck.
Counter.
Joe Yabuki's fighting instinct guided him like a second brain.
Another opportunity appeared.
Tanaka threw a straight punch.
Hayato twisted his body.
The system suddenly flashed.
---
[Cross Counter Activated]
---
Hayato's fist shot forward.
Both punches crossed paths.
CRACK.
Tanaka's head snapped backward.
The entire gym went silent.
Tanaka collapsed onto one knee.
Hayato stood there breathing heavily.
The bell rang again.
DING.
End of the round.
Tanaka slowly stood up.
"…That punch again."
Hayato wiped sweat from his forehead.
"…Cross Counter."
Outside the ring, Takamura laughed loudly.
"Hahaha! This kid is insane!"
Ippo's eyes shone with excitement.
"He's improving so fast…"
Kamogawa remained silent for a moment.
Then he spoke.
"The trial is over."
Hayato blinked.
"…Already?"
Kamogawa nodded.
"You passed."
Hayato exhaled deeply.
"…Finally."
The system appeared again in his vision.
---
[Trial Completed]
Synchronization Rate Increased
Current Sync: 26%
---
Hayato smiled slightly.
His journey as a boxer had officially begun.
But this was only the first step.
Many more battles were waiting ahead.
And one day—
The stray dog would become a champion.
Chapter 7: The Road to the First Fight
The Kamogawa Gym was unusually quiet that evening.
The sun had already begun to set outside, casting long orange shadows across the worn wooden floor. The heavy bags swayed gently after hours of brutal training, and the faint scent of sweat still lingered in the air.
Hayato Kurogane sat on a bench near the ring, breathing slowly.
His knuckles were wrapped in bandages.
His ribs still ached from Tanaka's punches during the spar earlier that day.
"…I feel like my body is falling apart," Hayato muttered.
Across the gym, Ippo Makunouchi was cleaning the training mats with a towel.
Ippo looked up when he heard him.
"You did really well today!"
Hayato shrugged.
"…I just got lucky again."
Ippo shook his head immediately.
"No way! Your Cross Counter is incredible!"
Hayato leaned back against the wall.
"…Everyone keeps saying that."
From behind them, a loud voice suddenly echoed.
"Because it's true!"
Both of them turned.
Walking toward them with his usual confident stride was the champion of the gym, Mamoru Takamura.
He cracked his neck as he approached.
"That counter punch you threw today?"
"Most beginners wouldn't even think of something like that."
Hayato scratched his head.
"…It just kind of happened."
Takamura grinned.
"Exactly."
He tapped Hayato's forehead.
"You're fighting with instinct."
Hayato frowned.
"…Is that bad?"
Takamura shrugged.
"Not really."
"But if you rely on instinct alone…"
He pointed toward the boxing ring.
"…you'll eventually run into someone stronger who will destroy you."
Hayato looked at the ring quietly.
He knew Takamura was right.
Even in today's spar, Tanaka's punches had nearly overwhelmed him.
If the fight had continued longer…
Things might have ended differently.
Just then—
The slow tapping of a cane echoed through the gym.
Both fighters instantly straightened.
The coach had arrived.
The legendary trainer who had built the Kamogawa Gym's reputation from the ground up.
Genji Kamogawa.
Kamogawa walked slowly toward them and stopped in front of Hayato.
His sharp eyes studied the young boxer carefully.
"You passed the trial."
Hayato nodded.
"…Yes."
Kamogawa continued.
"But that only means you're allowed to train here."
Hayato sighed.
"…I figured."
Takamura chuckled.
"Did you think you were already a champion?"
Hayato rolled his eyes.
"…Obviously not."
Kamogawa crossed his arms.
"From tomorrow onward…"
"You will begin preparation for your first amateur match."
Hayato blinked.
"…Wait."
"My first match?"
Ippo's eyes widened with excitement.
"That's amazing!"
Takamura grinned like a wolf.
"Looks like the stray dog is entering the ring."
Hayato slowly stood up.
"…That fast?"
Kamogawa nodded.
"You have natural instinct."
"But instinct must be tested in real combat."
Hayato clenched his fists slightly.
A strange excitement rose in his chest.
His first real fight.
The first step on the road of a boxer.
Inside his mind, the system suddenly activated.
---
[NEW MAIN QUEST]
Win your First Amateur Match
Reward:
+10% Template Synchronization
New Technique Unlock
---
Hayato smiled slightly.
"…Alright."
He looked directly at the coach.
"I'll do it."
Kamogawa nodded once.
"Training begins immediately."
Hayato groaned.
"…Of course it does."
---
The Next Morning
The sky was still dark when Hayato and Ippo ran through the quiet streets of Tokyo.
Their footsteps echoed along the empty sidewalks.
The morning run had become a daily routine.
Ten kilometers.
Every single day.
Hayato's breathing was heavy.
"…How are you still running so fast?"
Ippo jogged beside him comfortably.
"You get used to it!"
Hayato sighed.
"…I doubt that."
Despite the exhaustion, something had changed.
His stamina had improved.
His body was slowly adapting to the intense training.
Inside his mind, the system displayed a notification.
---
[Physical Condition Improving]
Stamina Increased
Synchronization Rate: 27%
---
Hayato chuckled slightly.
"…Nice."
When they returned to the gym, the real training began.
Footwork drills.
Shadowboxing.
Heavy bag practice.
Hours passed as sweat poured from Hayato's body.
Each punch became sharper.
Each movement became smoother.
But Kamogawa wasn't satisfied.
"Your guard is still sloppy."
Hayato raised his gloves again.
"…Yes, Coach."
The coach pointed toward the ring.
"Sparring."
Hayato blinked.
"…Again?"
Takamura laughed loudly.
"Hahaha! Welcome to boxing!"
This time his opponent was another gym member.
A slim boxer named Kondo.
He was fast.
Very fast.
The spar began.
Kondo's jab shot forward like lightning.
Hayato barely blocked it.
Another jab followed.
Then another.
Hayato struggled to keep up.
"…This guy is fast…"
Kondo smiled slightly.
"Too slow."
Hayato stepped sideways.
Joe Yabuki's instincts flared again.
Watch.
Wait.
Counter.
Kondo threw another jab.
Hayato slipped.
Then his fist shot forward.
CRACK.
The counter punch landed.
Kondo stepped back with surprise.
Outside the ring, Takamura grinned.
"That instinct again."
Ippo clenched his fists with excitement.
"Hayato is getting stronger!"
The spar continued for several rounds.
Hayato took many punches.
But he also landed several counters.
By the time the spar ended—
Both fighters were breathing heavily.
Kondo wiped sweat from his face.
"You're tough."
Hayato smiled.
"…You're fast."
Kamogawa nodded slightly.
"Good."
Hayato leaned against the ropes.
"…That's it?"
Kamogawa pointed toward the heavy bags again.
"Training continues."
Hayato nearly collapsed.
"…You're serious."
Takamura laughed loudly.
"Hahaha!"
As Hayato returned to the heavy bag, his fists began pounding against the leather.
THUD.
THUD.
THUD.
Each punch echoed through the gym.
The fire inside his chest burned stronger.
Joe Yabuki's spirit pushed him forward.
The system appeared again.
---
[Skill Improvement Detected]
Counter Timing Enhanced
Synchronization Rate: 30%
---
Hayato smiled through his exhaustion.
His first match was approaching.
And with every day of training—
He was becoming stronger.
Faster.
More dangerous.
One day—
The stray dog who entered the Kamogawa Gym would become a true boxer.
And when that day came—
The ring would belong to him.
Chapter 8: The Fire of the Rookie
The rain fell steadily over Tokyo that morning.
Thin streams of water slid down the windows of the Kamogawa Boxing Gym, turning the outside world gray and blurry. Inside the gym, however, the atmosphere was intense.
THUD.
THUD.
THUD.
Hayato Kurogane's fists slammed into the heavy bag again and again.
Sweat mixed with rainwater dripping from his hair.
His breathing was rough.
But he didn't stop.
Across the gym, Ippo Makunouchi watched quietly while wrapping his own hands.
"You've been hitting that bag for almost thirty minutes," Ippo said.
Hayato threw another punch.
BOOM.
"…Coach told me to keep going."
Near the ring, the legendary trainer Genji Kamogawa stood with his arms crossed.
His sharp eyes followed every movement Hayato made.
"Your punches still waste energy," Kamogawa said calmly.
Hayato stopped briefly and looked at him.
"…You mean I punch too hard?"
Kamogawa shook his head.
"No."
"You punch without control."
Hayato frowned.
"…Isn't punching hard the point?"
From the side of the gym came a loud laugh.
"Hahaha!"
The giant figure of Mamoru Takamura stepped closer.
"That's exactly what beginners think."
Hayato rolled his eyes.
"…Here comes the lecture."
Takamura smirked.
"Listen carefully, rookie."
He grabbed the heavy bag and stopped it from swinging.
"Power comes from timing."
Then he threw a short punch.
THUD.
The bag swung violently.
Hayato blinked.
"…That didn't even look strong."
Takamura grinned.
"That's the point."
Kamogawa nodded.
"Your Cross Counter works because your timing is good."
"But your normal punches are sloppy."
Hayato sighed.
"…So I need to fix that."
Kamogawa pointed at the bag again.
"Two hundred more punches."
Hayato's jaw dropped.
"…Two hundred?!"
Takamura laughed loudly.
"Hahaha! Welcome to boxing!"
Hayato groaned but raised his fists again.
THUD.
THUD.
THUD.
Punch after punch struck the heavy bag.
Each one slightly more controlled than the last.
Inside his mind—
The system activated.
---
[Training Analysis]
Punch Efficiency Improving
Synchronization Rate: 31%
---
Hayato smirked slightly.
"…Not bad."
After the bag training ended, the next session began.
Footwork drills.
Hayato stepped onto the taped floor patterns while Kamogawa watched closely.
"Balance," Kamogawa said.
"Your counters depend on it."
Hayato moved through the patterns.
Step.
Slide.
Pivot.
Step again.
At first his movements were awkward.
But slowly they became smoother.
Joe Yabuki's instincts guided his body.
The reckless fighter whose spirit lived within him—
Joe Yabuki.
Hayato stopped and wiped sweat from his forehead.
"…I think I'm getting it."
Kamogawa nodded slightly.
"Better."
Then he pointed toward the ring.
"Sparring."
Hayato groaned.
"…Again?"
Takamura smirked.
"Did you expect a vacation?"
Hayato sighed and climbed into the ring.
This time his opponent was someone new.
A tall boxer with long arms.
His name was Fujita.
Ippo stood near the ropes.
"Fujita's jab is really fast," Ippo whispered.
Hayato nodded.
"…Great."
The sparring bell rang.
DING.
Fujita immediately used his reach advantage.
His jab shot forward like a spear.
Hayato barely slipped under it.
Another jab came instantly.
Then another.
Hayato stepped sideways to avoid them.
"…Long arms are annoying."
Fujita smirked.
"That's boxing."
He threw another jab.
Hayato blocked it.
But the next punch landed on his shoulder.
THUD.
Hayato winced.
Fujita moved quickly.
Another jab.
Hayato ducked.
Then the moment appeared.
Joe Yabuki's instinct flared.
Counter.
Hayato twisted his body.
His fist shot forward.
CRACK.
The counter punch struck Fujita's cheek.
Fujita stepped back in surprise.
Outside the ring, Takamura grinned.
"There it is again."
Ippo nodded excitedly.
"Hayato's counters are amazing!"
But the spar wasn't over.
Fujita adjusted his stance.
"You're dangerous."
Then he rushed forward again.
This time his punches were faster.
Hayato blocked what he could.
But several jabs slipped through.
One struck his nose.
Pain exploded across his face.
Blood trickled down his lip.
Hayato wiped it away.
"…Okay."
"Now I'm annoyed."
Fujita lunged again.
His jab shot forward.
Hayato slipped.
But instead of countering immediately—
He waited.
A second jab came.
Then a cross.
Hayato's eyes sharpened.
Now.
The system flashed inside his vision.
---
[Cross Counter Activation]
---
Hayato's punch exploded forward.
Both punches crossed paths.
CRACK.
Fujita's head snapped backward.
The impact echoed through the gym.
Fujita stumbled and fell to one knee.
Silence filled the room.
Takamura laughed loudly.
"Hahaha!"
"That Cross Counter again!"
Ippo's eyes sparkled.
"He's getting better!"
Kamogawa remained quiet.
But a small smile appeared on his face.
Inside the ring, Fujita stood up slowly.
"…That punch is crazy."
Hayato rubbed the back of his head.
"…Sorry."
Fujita shook his head.
"No."
"That was awesome."
The spar ended shortly after.
Hayato sat on the ring floor breathing heavily.
His entire body ached.
But he felt stronger than before.
The system appeared again.
---
[Sparring Completed]
Synchronization Rate: 33%
Cross Counter Skill Level Up
---
Hayato smiled.
"…Nice."
Kamogawa approached the ring.
"You are improving."
Hayato blinked.
"…That sounds like praise."
Kamogawa turned away.
"Do not get arrogant."
Hayato laughed.
"…There it is."
Takamura jumped into the ring and slapped Hayato's back.
"Your first amateur fight is coming soon!"
Hayato groaned from the impact.
"…Don't remind me."
But deep inside—
Excitement burned like fire.
The road ahead was becoming clearer.
His first official fight.
The moment when he would truly step into the boxing world.
And when that moment arrived—
The stray dog would finally show his fangs.
Chapter 9: Preparing for the Ring
The morning sun broke over the Tokyo skyline, spilling light across the quiet streets. Hayato Kurogane's legs ached from yesterday's sparring, his arms were sore from punching the heavy bag, and a dull throb lingered in his ribs from Fujita's heavy jabs.
Still, he was awake before dawn.
The Kamogawa Boxing Gym didn't forgive laziness. Not even for rookies with talent.
Hayato tied his shoelaces outside the gym, the crisp morning air biting at his skin. He could hear the distant hum of the city slowly waking, but he blocked it all out. All that mattered was today—another step closer to his first amateur fight.
From inside the gym came the rhythmic slap of a skipping rope. Ippo Makunouchi was already moving gracefully, his jump rope striking the floor in perfect rhythm. Each strike sounded like a metronome, marking the pace of the day.
"Morning," Hayato muttered, raising a hand.
Ippo smiled. "Morning! Ready for today?"
Hayato rubbed the back of his neck. "…As ready as I'll ever be."
Before they could exchange more words, a familiar loud laugh rang through the gym.
"Hahaha! That's what I like to hear!"
Mamoru Takamura strode toward them with his usual energy, cracking his knuckles. "You look like a rookie already ready to cry. Good."
Hayato raised an eyebrow. "…Am I supposed to be flattered?"
Takamura shrugged. "Doesn't matter. Pain is part of boxing. Embrace it!"
Before Hayato could argue, the sharp tapping of a cane echoed. The legendary coach Genji Kamogawa entered, and all chatter stopped. His eyes swept the gym and landed on Hayato with an intensity that made him straighten instinctively.
"Today, training isn't just about strength," Kamogawa said. "It's about control. About timing. About becoming a boxer, not just a brawler."
Hayato nodded. "…Understood."
Kamogawa gestured toward the ring. "We begin with pad work."
Ippo grabbed a pair of mitts and stepped onto the mat. "Let's start!"
Hayato raised his fists. His body was still sore, but he moved automatically, guided by the instincts of Joe Yabuki that had begun merging with his own reflexes.
The pad work was relentless. Ippo moved quickly, changing angles and rhythm, forcing Hayato to adjust constantly. Hayato's arms burned, sweat dripped from his forehead, and yet, each punch felt sharper than the last.
SMACK. Jab.
SMACK. Hook.
SMACK. Cross.
Kamogawa's eyes narrowed. "Better… but your stance is too stiff. Relax your shoulders."
Hayato exhaled sharply. "…I'll try."
Takamura wandered closer, leaning lazily against the ropes. "Relax? You've got a minute, rookie? You can't relax in the ring unless your brain is faster than your body."
Hayato wiped his sweat away. "…I guess I'll have to speed up my brain too."
Ippo smiled nervously. "You're improving so fast, Hayato-san. I hope I can keep up!"
Hayato gave a small grin. "I'll try not to leave you in the dust."
After thirty minutes of continuous pad drills, Kamogawa nodded. "Enough. Footwork drills next. A boxer's power comes from the legs, not just the arms."
Hayato stepped onto the taped floor patterns once again. Squares, lines, circles—they were guides to control his movement and balance. Kamogawa demonstrated a step-slide-pivot combination first.
"Watch carefully," the coach said. "Your counters depend on this. If your base is weak, your punches will go nowhere."
Hayato moved, at first clumsy, stumbling slightly with each step. But instinct guided him. His legs adjusted automatically. Step. Slide. Pivot. Repeat.
The system activated.
---
[Footwork Efficiency Improved]
Synchronization Rate: 35%
---
Hayato smirked slightly. "…Not bad."
Kamogawa continued. "Now sparring."
Hayato groaned. "…Again?"
Takamura laughed loudly. "Welcome to boxing. The more you fight, the better you survive."
The opponent this time was a new gym member named Sakamoto. Taller, lean, and fast. His jab was sharp and accurate, a real test for Hayato's reflexes.
DING
Sakamoto opened with a quick jab. Hayato slipped instinctively. Another jab followed. He blocked the second punch, but Sakamoto's cross caught his shoulder. Pain flared.
Hayato gritted his teeth. Joe Yabuki's instinct whispered inside him: wait… now!
Sakamoto threw a straight punch. Hayato twisted his torso, his fist shooting forward in perfect timing.
CRACK
The punch landed squarely on Sakamoto's cheek. He stumbled back, surprised.
Outside the ring, Takamura laughed. "That's it! That's the instinct I like!"
Ippo's eyes shone with admiration. "Incredible, Hayato-san!"
But Sakamoto quickly recovered and pressed forward again. He unleashed a flurry of punches, testing Hayato's defense. Each one was faster and more dangerous.
Hayato blocked, slipped, and countered where he could. Sweat poured from his brow, and his arms trembled, but the instincts of Joe Yabuki guided his body. Every movement was precise, every punch deliberate.
The system activated again.
---
[Cross Counter Level Up]
Synchronization Rate: 38%
---
Hayato exhaled sharply. "…Feels different now."
He could feel the Cross Counter forming naturally, no longer forced by thought, but by reflex.
Sakamoto lunged again. Hayato ducked, pivoted, and struck. The counter was clean. Sakamoto staggered and finally fell to one knee.
The bell rang. DING
The spar ended. Both fighters were breathing heavily. Sakamoto wiped sweat from his brow. "You're strong… really strong."
Hayato nodded. "…Thanks."
Kamogawa approached the ring, his expression unreadable. "Good. You are learning control. But remember, instinct alone isn't enough. The ring is unforgiving. You must train your mind as much as your body."
Hayato wiped sweat from his eyes. "…Understood, Coach."
Takamura patted him on the back, nearly knocking him off balance. "Hahaha! Rookie, your first fight is coming soon. Better get ready to show the world your instincts!"
Hayato nodded slowly. Deep inside, a strange fire burned. Pain, exhaustion, blood—it didn't matter anymore. This was what he lived for.
The first amateur fight loomed closer. Each day of training, each bruise, and each punch was a step closer. The stray dog, guided by the spirit of Joe Yabuki, was ready to step into the ring.
And once he did… there would be no turning back.
The road to becoming a true boxer had only just begun.
Chapter 10: Shadows Before the First Bell
The night was unusually quiet in Tokyo. Rain still lingered on the streets, leaving a glossy sheen over asphalt, reflecting the neon signs that blinked in the darkness. Hayato Kurogane sat on the edge of a bench inside the Kamogawa Boxing Gym, his body soaked in sweat from the evening's grueling session.
His arms ached from endless punches on the heavy bag. His legs screamed from footwork drills, and a dull throb radiated through his ribs from the sparring earlier with Sakamoto. Yet, despite the exhaustion, a strange anticipation stirred in his chest.
"…I'm really going to fight soon," he muttered, staring at the empty ring.
Ippo Makunouchi quietly sat across from him, wiping sweat from his forehead. "Your first amateur match… Coach says it's important that you don't just rely on instinct."
Hayato chuckled dryly. "…Easy for him to say. I don't exactly have a choice."
Ippo nodded. "True… but you're improving fast. Faster than anyone expected."
Hayato smirked faintly. "I hope so."
Before Ippo could respond, a familiar booming laugh echoed through the gym.
"Hahaha! Talking about fighting while sitting around? Rookie, you should be punching!"
Mamoru Takamura appeared like a storm, his grin wider than ever, cracking his knuckles.
"…Do you ever stop yelling?" Hayato groaned.
Takamura shrugged. "Why would I? Energy is contagious!"
Just then, the familiar tapping of a cane sounded, drawing immediate silence. Coach Genji Kamogawa had arrived. His piercing gaze scanned the gym before finally resting on Hayato.
"You will fight soon," Kamogawa said simply. "Today, you train not as a beginner, but as someone about to enter the ring."
Hayato's pulse quickened. "…So what does that mean?"
Kamogawa's eyes narrowed. "Real sparring. No mercy."
Hayato blinked. "…Already?"
Takamura clapped him on the back. "Hahaha! That's boxing for you!"
Ippo's eyes widened nervously. "Are you sure, Coach?"
Kamogawa didn't answer. He simply pointed toward the ring.
Hayato sighed and climbed in, gloves raised. Across the ring stood his opponent: a tall, lean boxer named Mori. He had long, precise arms and eyes that reflected sharp intelligence. Kamogawa had picked him specifically for this session. Mori wasn't the strongest, but he was fast, disciplined, and relentless—everything a fighter entering a real match would face.
DING
The spar began.
Mori opened with a jab, lightning-fast, aiming directly for Hayato's head. He followed with another jab, and then a quick cross.
Hayato's body moved on instinct, slipping the first jab and ducking under the cross. Pain shot up his shoulder when the second jab grazed him, but he kept his focus.
Joe Yabuki's instincts stirred within him, guiding his movements. Watch. Wait. Counter.
Mori threw another cross. Hayato twisted and unleashed his first counter.
CRACK.
Mori's cheek snapped back. He stumbled slightly but quickly regained his stance.
Takamura whistled. "There it is. Rookie instinct in action!"
Ippo's fists clenched with excitement. "That punch… amazing!"
But Mori wasn't finished. He adjusted, pressing forward with a flurry of jabs and hooks. Hayato blocked and dodged where he could, but the pressure was relentless. One punch grazed his cheek, another caught his shoulder, and a sharp hook thudded into his ribs.
Hayato gritted his teeth. Pain exploded through his body, but a fire ignited in his chest.
Now.
The Cross Counter came naturally, no longer forced. His body twisted, and his fist struck perfectly timed as Mori's punch brushed past his face.
CRACK.
Mori staggered back, surprise flashing across his eyes.
Outside the ring, Kamogawa's eyes narrowed. "Good. That's instinct… sharpened by control."
Takamura clapped loudly. "Hahaha! This is getting fun!"
Hayato's breathing was ragged. Sweat dripped from his hair and mixed with the small cut above his brow. His fists shook, but the thrill of the spar filled him with energy.
DING
End of the round.
Mori stepped back, wiping sweat from his face. "…You're fast… unpredictable."
Hayato exhaled. "…Thanks."
Kamogawa gestured toward him. "Do not underestimate the ring. Every opponent tests more than your body—they test your mind. Learn to read them."
The second round began immediately.
Mori opened with a feint, baiting Hayato. His footwork was precise, a shadow of control and rhythm. Hayato reacted instinctively, slipping the punch—but his eyes caught the minor shift in Mori's shoulders. Another feint. Another opportunity.
Hayato's body moved faster than thought. A Cross Counter. CRACK. Another clean hit.
The system alerted him.
---
[Cross Counter Mastery Level Up]
Synchronization Rate: 42%
---
Hayato's heart raced. He could feel the technique solidifying in his muscles. Timing, precision, and instinct all aligning.
Mori, realizing his own rhythm had been read, pressed harder. Hooks, jabs, and crosses flew faster than ever. Hayato blocked and slipped, but fatigue was creeping in. His arms trembled. Every muscle screamed in protest.
Then—pain shot up his ribs from a well-placed body shot.
Hayato gasped, doubling over slightly. For a moment, the fire in his chest flickered.
Joe Yabuki's voice within him roared. Don't stop. Don't retreat. Counter now!
Hayato steadied himself, remembering Kamogawa's words: instinct alone isn't enough. Control, precision, timing.
The opening came. Mori threw a hook, overextending slightly. Hayato twisted his torso and fired a perfect Cross Counter.
CRACK.
Mori staggered and fell to one knee.
Outside the ring, Takamura's grin was feral. "Hahaha! That's it, rookie!"
Ippo clapped excitedly. "Hayato-san… amazing!"
Kamogawa's sharp eyes softened slightly. "You are ready for the next step. But never forget—this is just the beginning. The ring will test everything: your body, your spirit, your mind."
Hayato leaned against the ropes, chest heaving, sweat soaking his hair and clothes. His first amateur fight loomed ever closer, and the anticipation sent shivers down his spine.
The system activated again.
---
[Sparring Completed]
Synchronization Rate: 45%
New Skill Unlocked: Reflexive Counter Chain
---
Hayato sat on the ring floor, feeling the aches from head to toe, but inside him, a fire burned brighter than ever. The path ahead was clear. Every punch, every step, every drop of blood was preparing him for the fight to come.
Outside, Kamogawa watched silently, as if predicting the boy's future. Takamura jumped into the ring, slapping Hayato on the back so hard he nearly fell.
"Hahaha! The first fight! Can't wait to see you tear it up in the ring!"
Hayato smiled faintly through the exhaustion, tightening his gloves. Deep down, he knew the real battle wasn't just about the opponent—it was about himself, his limits, and the spirit of the fighter he had inherited from Joe Yabuki.
The first bell of his boxing career was coming, and when it rang, there would be no turning back.
The stray dog was ready.