Chapter 61: The Ranked Wall
The morning air outside Kamogawa Boxing Gym felt colder than usual.
Hayato Kurogane jogged through the quiet streets, his breath forming faint clouds in the early light. His shoes struck the pavement in a steady rhythm.
Step.
Step.
Step.
The city was barely awake, but Hayato had already been running for nearly an hour.
Sweat ran down his neck.
His lungs burned.
But he didn't slow down.
Inside his mind, the system flickered.
[Training Log Updated]
Stamina Training Progress: 78%
Body Endurance Growth Detected.
Recommended Training: Increase sprint intervals.
Hayato increased his pace.
Step.
Step.
Step.
He sprinted forward.
His muscles screamed in protest, but he ignored the pain.
The image of his next opponent stayed in his mind.
A ranked boxer.
A wall standing between him and the national rankings.
Hayato clenched his jaw and kept running.
---
When he arrived at Kamogawa Boxing Gym, the doors were already open.
The sound of punching echoed from inside.
Hayato stepped in.
Ippo Makunouchi was already hitting the mitts with Kamogawa.
CRACK
CRACK
CRACK
Kamogawa lowered the pads.
"Good."
Ippo breathed heavily.
"Thank you, Coach."
Hayato walked toward the lockers.
Ippo noticed him.
"Hayato-san! You already finished your run?"
Hayato nodded.
"Yeah."
Takamura's voice suddenly echoed across the gym.
"Oi! Rookie!"
Hayato looked up.
Takamura sat lazily on the ring ropes, drinking a sports drink.
"You ready to fight a ranked monster?"
Hayato calmly wrapped his hands.
"I'm ready to train."
Takamura grinned.
"Hahaha! Same thing."
Kamogawa stepped forward.
"Hayato."
Hayato looked up.
"Yes, Coach."
Kamogawa's expression remained serious.
"Your opponent's name is Kazuki Hayama."
Ippo blinked.
"Hayama?!"
Hayato noticed his reaction.
"You know him?"
Ippo nodded nervously.
"He's ranked seventh in the featherweight division…"
Takamura smirked.
"And he's fast."
Kamogawa continued.
"Hayama's fighting style focuses on speed and counter attacks."
Hayato stayed silent.
Kamogawa tapped his cane on the floor.
"If you rush blindly, he will destroy you."
Hayato nodded slowly.
"Understood."
---
Training Begins
Hayato stepped in front of the heavy bag.
He raised his guard.
Then he punched.
THUD
The bag swung violently.
Hayato continued.
Jab.
Cross.
Hook.
THUD. THUD. THUD.
Kamogawa watched carefully.
"Faster."
Hayato increased his speed.
THUD THUD THUD THUD
The bag shook violently.
Sweat flew through the air.
Hayato's breathing grew heavier.
But he didn't stop.
Across the gym, Ippo whispered.
"He's pushing himself really hard…"
Takamura crossed his arms.
"He has to."
Kamogawa suddenly spoke.
"Hayato."
Hayato stopped punching.
"Get in the ring."
Hayato climbed through the ropes.
Fujimoto stood waiting.
"Another spar?"
Hayato nodded.
The bell rang.
DING
Fujimoto attacked immediately.
Jab.
Jab.
Cross.
Hayato slipped the punches.
Then countered.
CRACK
Fujimoto stepped back.
But he quickly moved forward again.
Hook.
Straight.
Uppercut.
Hayato ducked under the hook.
Pivoted.
Then struck.
CRACK
The punch landed clean.
Fujimoto grunted.
But he kept fighting.
The pace increased.
Punches flew across the ring.
Hayato moved faster than before.
But Kamogawa frowned slightly.
"Too aggressive…"
Hayato stepped forward again.
Jab.
Cross.
Hook.
Fujimoto slipped the hook.
Then countered.
CRACK
Hayato's head snapped back slightly.
The bell rang.
DING
---
Lesson
Hayato wiped sweat from his face.
Kamogawa stepped into the ring.
"You felt that?"
Hayato nodded.
"Yes."
Kamogawa continued.
"That is what Hayama does."
Hayato listened silently.
Kamogawa pointed at the ring floor.
"He waits for openings."
Hayato clenched his fists.
"Then I'll stop giving him openings."
Kamogawa shook his head.
"No."
Hayato looked confused.
Kamogawa continued calmly.
"You must create traps."
Takamura laughed from outside the ring.
"Now that sounds fun."
Kamogawa ignored him.
"Hayama is fast."
"Faster than most fighters you've faced."
Hayato nodded.
"So I'll become faster."
Kamogawa shook his head again.
"Speed alone will not win."
Hayato listened carefully.
"You must control the rhythm of the fight."
Hayato thought about it.
Control.
Timing.
Pressure.
The system flickered again.
[Combat Strategy Update]
New Tactical Focus: Trap-Based Counter Strategy.
Recommended Training: Reaction Control and Rhythm Manipulation.
Synchronization with Joe Yabuki Template: 64%.
---
Evening Training
Hours passed.
Hayato continued training.
Heavy bag.
Speed bag.
Footwork drills.
Shadowboxing.
His body felt like it was on fire.
But he continued.
Punch.
Step.
Slip.
Pivot.
Every movement sharpened his instincts.
Across the gym, Ippo watched in amazement.
"He hasn't stopped all day…"
Takamura smirked.
"That's the kind of guy who becomes dangerous."
Kamogawa quietly observed.
Hayato finished one last combination.
Jab.
Cross.
Hook.
THUD
The heavy bag swung violently.
Hayato finally lowered his gloves.
His chest rose and fell rapidly.
Sweat dripped onto the floor.
Inside his mind, the system updated again.
[Progress Updated]
Joe Yabuki Template Synchronization: 65%
Next Evolution Requirement: Victory Over Ranked Opponent.
Hayato closed his eyes for a moment.
Then opened them again.
His gaze hardened.
Kazuki Hayama.
Ranked seventh.
A wall standing before him.
Hayato tightened his fists.
He would break through it.
Chapter 62: Speed Against Instinct
The rain fell quietly outside Kamogawa Boxing Gym that morning.
Gray clouds covered the sky, and the sound of raindrops hitting the windows created a steady rhythm throughout the building. Inside the gym, however, the atmosphere was intense.
Hayato Kurogane stood in the center of the ring.
Across from him was Ippo Makunouchi.
Both fighters wore sparring gloves and headgear.
Kamogawa stood nearby with his arms crossed.
"Today's sparring will focus on speed and reaction," the old coach said.
Hayato raised his guard.
Ippo nodded.
The bell rang.
DING
Ippo stepped forward carefully.
His movement was calm and controlled, but his eyes were focused.
Hayato knew Ippo's boxing style was different from the fighters he had faced recently. Ippo specialized in pressure, body shots, and relentless forward movement.
Hayato stepped lightly to the side.
Testing distance.
Ippo suddenly rushed forward.
Jab.
Hook.
Hayato slipped the jab and pivoted away from the hook.
But Ippo continued chasing him.
Left hook.
Right body shot.
Hayato blocked the body shot and stepped back.
The pressure was immediate.
Ippo didn't stop moving.
Punches came like waves.
Hayato slipped another jab and countered.
CRACK
The straight punch landed on Ippo's guard.
Ippo barely flinched.
Instead, he stepped closer.
Hayato's eyes sharpened.
This was the kind of pressure he would face against stronger opponents.
He needed to stay calm.
Ippo attacked again.
Hook.
Body shot.
Uppercut.
Hayato ducked under the hook and pivoted to the side.
Then he countered.
CRACK
The punch hit Ippo's shoulder.
Not clean enough.
Ippo kept moving.
Kamogawa watched silently.
"Too predictable," he muttered.
Hayato circled the ring.
His mind analyzed every movement.
Speed.
Pressure.
Openings.
He remembered what Kamogawa had said.
Create traps.
Ippo stepped forward again.
Hayato moved slightly slower this time.
He deliberately left a small opening.
Ippo saw it immediately.
He threw a straight punch.
But Hayato moved first.
Slip.
Pivot.
Counter.
CRACK
The punch landed clean.
Ippo stepped back in surprise.
Takamura whistled from outside the ring.
"Oho."
Hayato didn't chase.
He returned to his stance calmly.
The round continued.
Ippo attacked again, but this time Hayato moved differently.
He controlled the pace.
Slow.
Then fast.
Step.
Pause.
Punch.
The rhythm kept changing.
Ippo struggled to predict the timing.
Hayato slipped another punch.
Then countered again.
CRACK
The bell rang.
DING
---
Between Rounds
Both fighters returned to their corners.
Ippo wiped sweat from his face.
"You're getting really hard to read."
Hayato drank water quietly.
Kamogawa stepped closer.
"That last counter was good."
Hayato nodded.
"I set the trap."
Kamogawa tapped the floor with his cane.
"Again."
---
Second Round
The bell rang again.
DING
This time Ippo attacked even more aggressively.
Jab.
Hook.
Body shot.
Hayato slipped the jab.
But the hook grazed his guard.
Ippo stepped closer.
Hayato felt the pressure building again.
He stepped back.
Then sideways.
His footwork became sharper.
Faster.
Ippo chased him.
Hayato waited.
Then suddenly stepped forward.
Jab.
Cross.
Hook.
CRACK. CRACK. CRACK.
Ippo blocked most of them, but the pressure pushed him backward.
Takamura laughed loudly.
"Look at the rookie go!"
Hayato stopped advancing.
He waited again.
Ippo attacked.
Hayato slipped the punch.
Then countered.
CRACK
Another clean hit.
The bell rang again.
DING
---
After Sparring
Both fighters removed their gloves.
Ippo smiled tiredly.
"That was intense."
Hayato nodded.
"You're strong."
Ippo laughed nervously.
"You too."
Takamura walked over.
He looked at Hayato with interest.
"You're starting to understand boxing."
Hayato looked at him.
"I'm still learning."
Takamura grinned.
"Hahaha! Keep saying that after you beat the ranked guy."
Kamogawa approached slowly.
His expression was calm.
"Your rhythm control improved."
Hayato nodded.
"But not enough yet."
Kamogawa agreed.
"Correct."
The old coach looked directly at him.
"Hayama's speed is much higher than Ippo's."
Hayato tightened his fists slightly.
"I'll adapt."
Kamogawa nodded.
"That is the only way."
---
Night Training
The gym was almost empty by evening.
Hayato stood in front of the speed bag.
TAP TAP TAP TAP TAP
His fists moved rapidly.
The bag rattled loudly.
Sweat ran down his face.
His shoulders burned from exhaustion.
But he continued.
Faster.
Faster.
Faster.
The system flickered again.
[Training Progress Updated]
Reaction Speed Increased.
Joe Yabuki Template Synchronization: 66%
Next Evolution Requirement: Defeat Ranked Opponent.
Hayato stopped punching.
His breathing was heavy.
But his eyes remained focused.
Kazuki Hayama.
Ranked seventh.
Fast.
Dangerous.
A counter specialist.
Hayato clenched his fists.
The fight was getting closer.
And he would be ready.
Chapter 63: The Man Called Hayama
Two weeks before the match, Kamogawa Gym received a visitor.
It was late afternoon. The sun shone through the windows, illuminating the ring where Hayato Kurogane was practicing footwork. His steps were light and controlled, sliding across the canvas like flowing water.
Step.
Pivot.
Step.
Punch.
Across the gym, Ippo Makunouchi held the stopwatch while watching.
"Three minutes!"
Hayato threw a fast combination.
Jab.
Cross.
Hook.
His punches sliced through the air.
Then the gym door opened.
Everyone instinctively looked toward the entrance.
A tall, lean boxer stepped inside.
His hair was short and slightly messy, and his posture looked relaxed, but his eyes were sharp.
Kamogawa immediately recognized him.
"Kazuki Hayama."
The gym grew quiet.
Hayato slowly lowered his fists and turned toward the door.
So this was him.
Ranked seventh.
The man he needed to defeat.
Hayama walked inside casually, stretching his neck.
"Coach Kamogawa. Long time."
Kamogawa's expression didn't change.
"What are you doing here?"
Hayama shrugged.
"I was in the neighborhood."
Takamura burst out laughing.
"Hahaha! Nobody 'just visits' another gym before a fight!"
Hayama smiled slightly.
"Maybe I was curious."
His eyes moved toward the ring.
And stopped on Hayato.
"So that's him."
Hayato climbed out of the ring calmly.
The two fighters stood a few meters apart.
Hayama looked him up and down.
"You're smaller than I expected."
Hayato replied calmly.
"You're slower than I expected."
Takamura laughed even louder.
"OHHHH!"
Hayama chuckled.
"I like him."
Kamogawa stepped forward.
"If you're here to talk, talk. If you're here to cause trouble, leave."
Hayama raised his hands.
"Relax. I'm not here to fight."
He looked at Hayato again.
"But I wanted to see my opponent."
Hayato said nothing.
Hayama tilted his head slightly.
"You've been winning fast lately."
Hayato nodded once.
"I train."
Hayama smirked.
"Good."
Then he pointed toward the ring.
"Mind if I borrow it?"
Takamura grinned.
"This should be good."
Kamogawa thought for a moment.
Then nodded.
"One round."
Hayato looked at him.
"Coach?"
Kamogawa spoke calmly.
"This is not a match."
Hayama climbed into the ring.
Hayato followed.
They both wore only light sparring gloves.
No headgear.
The gym fell silent.
Even Takamura stopped joking.
Hayama rolled his shoulders.
"Just a feel for your rhythm."
Hayato raised his guard.
"I was thinking the same thing."
Ippo stood outside the ring nervously.
Kamogawa raised his hand.
"Begin."
---
The First Exchange
Hayama moved first.
His speed was incredible.
Jab.
Hayato barely slipped it.
Another jab came immediately.
Faster.
Hayato stepped back.
Hayama smiled.
"Good reflexes."
Then he attacked again.
Jab.
Cross.
Hook.
Hayato blocked the cross and ducked under the hook.
Then he countered.
CRACK
Hayama leaned his head sideways at the last second.
The punch barely grazed him.
"So that's your counter timing."
Hayato didn't respond.
Instead, he moved forward.
Jab.
Cross.
Hook.
Hayama slipped every punch.
Effortlessly.
His movements were smooth and light.
Almost lazy.
Then he struck.
CRACK
A fast jab landed on Hayato's guard.
The impact still pushed him back slightly.
Takamura whistled.
"That speed is real."
Hayato adjusted his stance.
Hayama circled him.
"You're trying to control rhythm."
Hayato threw another jab.
Hayama slipped it again.
Then countered instantly.
CRACK
This punch landed on Hayato's shoulder.
Hayama stepped back calmly.
"You're good."
Hayato stepped forward again.
But this time his movement changed.
Slower.
Careful.
He deliberately left an opening.
Hayama's eyes flashed.
He attacked.
But Hayato moved first.
Slip.
Pivot.
Counter.
CRACK
The punch landed clean on Hayama's cheek.
The gym gasped.
Hayama touched his cheek and smiled.
"Nice trap."
Hayato stayed silent.
The two fighters stared at each other.
Hayama suddenly rushed forward.
Jab.
Cross.
Hook.
Hayato slipped two punches.
But the hook grazed his guard.
Hayama stepped away again.
"Your instincts are interesting."
Hayato answered calmly.
"You're fast."
Hayama laughed.
"Not fast enough."
Then he raised his guard again.
"Next time we meet…"
His eyes sharpened.
"It won't be practice."
Kamogawa raised his hand.
"Enough."
The round ended.
---
Aftermath
Hayama climbed out of the ring.
He stretched his neck again.
Takamura walked closer.
"So?"
Hayama smiled.
"That kid is dangerous."
Ippo blinked.
"Really?"
Hayama looked back at Hayato.
"But he's still inexperienced."
Hayato wiped sweat from his face.
Hayama pointed at him.
"Two weeks."
"Use them well."
Then he walked toward the door.
Before leaving, he spoke one last time.
"Because when we fight…"
His voice was calm.
"I won't hold back."
The door closed.
Silence filled the gym.
Takamura cracked his knuckles.
"Oh man."
Ippo looked worried.
"That guy is really strong."
Kamogawa turned to Hayato.
"What did you learn?"
Hayato answered immediately.
"He's faster than I thought."
Kamogawa nodded.
"And?"
Hayato clenched his fists.
"But not unbeatable."
Kamogawa's eyes narrowed slightly.
"Good."
Hayato looked toward the ring.
The real fight would come soon.
And when it did…
Only one of them would leave the ring standing.
Chapter 64: Forging the Counter
The atmosphere inside Kamogawa Boxing Gym felt heavier after Kazuki Hayama's visit.
Even though it had only been a short exchange, everyone had seen it.
The speed.
The control.
The confidence of a ranked boxer.
Hayato Kurogane stood in front of the mirror early the next morning, wrapping his hands slowly. The white cloth tightened around his knuckles with each turn.
His eyes were calm.
But inside his mind, the fight replayed again and again.
Hayama's jab.
His footwork.
His counters.
The way he slipped punches like they were nothing.
Hayato finished wrapping his hands.
Then he stood up.
Today's training would be different.
He needed to break through Hayama's speed.
---
The Coach's Plan
Kamogawa stood in the center of the gym, his cane resting against his shoulder.
"Hayato."
"Yes, Coach."
"You noticed Hayama's biggest strength."
Hayato nodded.
"Speed and counters."
Kamogawa shook his head.
"No."
Hayato looked surprised.
Kamogawa continued.
"His real strength is control."
Hayato stayed silent.
Kamogawa tapped the floor with his cane.
"He controls distance. He controls rhythm. And he forces his opponent to make mistakes."
Takamura leaned against the ropes nearby.
"In other words, he makes people fight his fight."
Ippo nodded nervously.
"I felt that when I sparred him once…"
Hayato looked toward the ring.
"So I have to break his control."
Kamogawa nodded.
"Exactly."
---
Trap Training
Hayato stepped into the ring.
Fujimoto stood across from him again.
Kamogawa raised his cane.
"Today you will not attack first."
Hayato blinked.
"…What?"
"Your goal is to force your opponent to attack."
Fujimoto grinned.
"Well, that's easy for me."
The bell rang.
DING
Fujimoto rushed forward.
Jab.
Hook.
Hayato stepped back calmly.
He blocked the hook and moved sideways.
Kamogawa watched carefully.
"Don't run."
Hayato slowed his movement.
Fujimoto attacked again.
Jab.
Cross.
Hayato slipped the jab.
But didn't counter.
Instead, he waited.
Fujimoto frowned.
"Why aren't you attacking?"
Hayato stayed silent.
Fujimoto attacked again.
Hook.
Straight.
Hayato slipped the hook.
Then moved forward suddenly.
Fujimoto reacted instinctively.
He threw a punch.
Exactly what Hayato wanted.
Slip.
Pivot.
Counter.
CRACK
The punch landed clean.
Fujimoto stumbled back.
Takamura grinned.
"There it is."
Hayato didn't chase.
He returned to his stance.
Fujimoto attacked again.
Hayato waited again.
This time he baited with a small jab.
Fujimoto reacted.
Hayato countered instantly.
CRACK
Another clean punch.
The bell rang.
DING
---
Kamogawa's Lesson
Kamogawa stepped into the ring.
"That is the idea."
Hayato wiped sweat from his face.
"But Hayama won't fall for simple traps."
Kamogawa nodded.
"Correct."
He pointed his cane at Hayato's chest.
"That's why you must improve your reaction speed."
Hayato tightened his fists.
"I understand."
Kamogawa continued.
"Hayama counters instinctively."
"Your instincts must become faster than his."
The system flickered inside Hayato's mind.
---
[Training Analysis Updated]
New Combat Focus: Reactive Counter Evolution
Required Skill Development:
Advanced Reaction Timing
Feint Manipulation
High-Speed Counter Chains
Joe Yabuki Template Synchronization: 67%
---
Hayato exhaled slowly.
He could feel the change already.
His instincts were sharpening.
---
Speed Drills
Later that afternoon, Hayato stood in front of the speed bag.
TAP TAP TAP TAP TAP
His fists moved rapidly.
Faster.
Sharper.
Sweat flew off his arms.
The rhythm grew faster and faster.
Takamura watched from nearby.
"That kid is obsessed."
Ippo smiled nervously.
"He wants to win."
Takamura crossed his arms.
"Good."
Hayato increased his speed again.
TAPTAPTAPTAPTAPTAP
His shoulders burned.
His arms felt heavy.
But he didn't stop.
His mind imagined Hayama's jab.
Over and over.
Slip.
Counter.
Slip.
Counter.
Slip.
Counter.
---
Night Sparring
The gym was quiet by evening.
Hayato climbed back into the ring.
This time his sparring partner was Nakahara, a heavier boxer.
Nakahara cracked his knuckles.
"Ready?"
Hayato nodded.
The bell rang.
DING
Nakahara attacked with power.
Hook.
Straight.
Hayato slipped the hook.
But the straight punch hit his guard hard.
The impact pushed him back.
Nakahara grinned.
"You're not fighting back?"
Hayato waited.
Nakahara attacked again.
Hayato stepped forward.
A small feint.
Nakahara reacted.
Hayato countered instantly.
CRACK
Nakahara's head snapped back.
Hayato continued.
Jab.
Cross.
Hook.
CRACK CRACK CRACK
The pressure forced Nakahara backward.
The bell rang.
DING
---
After Training
Hayato sat on the bench breathing heavily.
His body felt completely exhausted.
But his mind felt sharper than ever.
Kamogawa walked toward him.
"You're improving."
Hayato nodded.
"But it's still not enough."
Kamogawa looked directly into his eyes.
"Two weeks."
Hayato clenched his fists.
"That's enough."
Kamogawa nodded once.
Takamura laughed from across the gym.
"Hahaha! I want to see that fight already!"
Ippo smiled nervously.
"Hayama is really strong though…"
Hayato stood up slowly.
His muscles ached.
But his eyes burned with determination.
Inside his mind, the system flickered again.
---
[Progress Update]
Joe Yabuki Template Synchronization: 68%
New Skill Approaching Unlock Condition.
Requirement: Extreme Combat Pressure.
---
Hayato looked toward the ring.
Kazuki Hayama.
Ranked seventh.
Fast.
Precise.
A counter specialist.
Hayato tightened his fists.
The day of the fight was getting closer.
And when it came…
He would shatter the ranked wall.
Chapter 65: The Calm Before the Storm
Three days before the match, Kamogawa Boxing Gym felt quieter than usual.
The usual noise of constant training had slowed. The fighters still practiced, but the atmosphere carried a certain tension. Everyone knew a big match was approaching.
Hayato Kurogane stood inside the ring, shadowboxing in silence.
Step.
Pivot.
Jab.
Cross.
Hook.
His movements were smooth and controlled. Each punch was precise, cutting through the air with sharp speed.
Sweat dripped from his chin onto the canvas.
Across the gym, Ippo Makunouchi watched carefully while holding a towel.
"He's even more focused than usual."
Takamura leaned against the ropes with a grin.
"That's what happens when a rookie is about to fight a ranked guy."
Kamogawa stood nearby, watching Hayato's footwork.
His expression remained serious.
Hayato stopped shadowboxing and wiped sweat from his face.
"Coach."
Kamogawa stepped forward.
"You've improved your trap timing."
Hayato nodded.
"But Hayama is still faster."
Kamogawa tapped his cane on the floor.
"Yes."
Hayato clenched his fists slightly.
"Then I'll make him slower."
Takamura laughed loudly.
"Hahaha! Now that's interesting!"
Ippo tilted his head.
"How do you slow someone faster than you?"
Hayato answered calmly.
"By controlling where they move."
Kamogawa nodded slightly.
"You're starting to understand."
---
Strategy Training
Kamogawa called Hayato into the ring again.
Fujimoto joined him for another sparring session.
"Last heavy spar before the match," Fujimoto said.
Hayato raised his guard.
The bell rang.
DING
Fujimoto attacked immediately.
Jab.
Cross.
Hook.
Hayato slipped the jab and stepped to the side.
Instead of countering immediately, he moved forward slightly.
Fujimoto attacked again.
Hayato retreated.
Then circled.
His footwork forced Fujimoto to turn constantly.
Kamogawa watched carefully.
Hayato wasn't simply avoiding attacks.
He was controlling space.
Fujimoto rushed forward again.
Hayato feinted a jab.
Fujimoto reacted.
Hayato slipped and countered instantly.
CRACK
The punch landed clean.
Fujimoto stepped back.
"Damn…"
Hayato didn't chase.
Instead, he changed direction again.
Fujimoto tried attacking from another angle.
Hayato moved sideways.
Then forward.
Then backward.
Each movement forced Fujimoto to adjust.
After a few exchanges, Fujimoto's rhythm broke.
Hayato attacked.
Jab.
Cross.
Hook.
CRACK CRACK CRACK
Fujimoto stumbled backward.
The bell rang.
DING
---
Kamogawa's Observation
Kamogawa stepped into the ring.
"That was good."
Hayato breathed heavily.
"But Hayama won't break that easily."
Kamogawa nodded.
"No."
He pointed his cane toward Hayato's chest.
"But you're learning something important."
Hayato waited.
Kamogawa spoke slowly.
"You're not chasing speed anymore."
Hayato nodded.
"I'm controlling movement."
Kamogawa smiled faintly.
"Exactly."
Takamura crossed his arms.
"Hayama's speed won't mean much if he's forced to move the way you want."
Ippo looked impressed.
"That's really advanced strategy…"
Hayato stepped out of the ring.
His body felt exhausted.
But his mind was clear.
---
Night Thoughts
Later that night, Hayato sat alone on the gym steps outside.
The city lights flickered in the distance.
He stared at his wrapped hands.
Inside his mind, the system appeared again.
[System Update]
Joe Yabuki Template Synchronization: 69%
Combat Style Evolution Approaching.
Condition Required: High-Level Match.
Hayato exhaled slowly.
His entire journey had led to this moment.
Every fight.
Every training session.
Every drop of sweat.
They all built toward the next step.
The gym door opened behind him.
Ippo walked outside.
"You're still here."
Hayato nodded.
"Just thinking."
Ippo sat beside him.
"Are you nervous?"
Hayato thought for a moment.
Then shook his head.
"No."
Ippo smiled.
"That's good."
Hayato looked toward the dark street ahead.
"I'm excited."
Ippo blinked.
"Huh?"
Hayato stood up slowly.
"I want to see how far I can go."
Inside the gym, Takamura watched through the window.
"Haha… that kid is dangerous."
Kamogawa stood behind him.
"Yes."
Takamura glanced at the old coach.
"You think he can win?"
Kamogawa looked toward Hayato.
"If he breaks through his limits…"
He paused.
"…then Hayama will lose."
---
Final Preparation
The next morning, Hayato finished his final training session.
No sparring.
Just shadowboxing.
Step.
Pivot.
Punch.
His movements were calm.
Controlled.
Like a storm waiting to erupt.
Inside his mind, the system flickered one more time.
[Final Preparation Complete]
Joe Yabuki Template Synchronization: 70%
Skill Evolution Locked.
Activation Condition: Official Match Combat.
Hayato lowered his fists.
The fight was tomorrow.
Kazuki Hayama.
Ranked seventh.
Fast.
Precise.
A master of counters.
Hayato clenched his fists tightly.
Tomorrow…
The ranked wall would finally be tested.
Chapter 66: The Opening Bell
The arena lights shone brightly over the boxing ring.
Rows of spectators filled the seats, their voices blending into a constant roar of excitement. Cameras flashed from different directions, and the sound of commentators echoed faintly through the stadium.
Tonight was fight night.
Hayato Kurogane stood in the locker room of the arena, quietly wrapping his hands.
The cloth tightened around his knuckles as he pulled each layer firmly into place.
His breathing was calm.
Slow.
Controlled.
Across the room, Ippo Makunouchi stood watching nervously.
"This is a big stage…"
Hayato nodded.
"I know."
Takamura leaned against the wall with his arms crossed.
"Relax, rookie."
He grinned widely.
"You've fought tougher sparring sessions than this."
Hayato finished wrapping his hands.
"Maybe."
Kamogawa stood silently nearby.
His sharp eyes observed Hayato carefully.
"You remember the strategy."
Hayato stood up.
"Control the rhythm."
Kamogawa nodded once.
"Good."
A knock came from the locker room door.
"Five minutes!"
The announcer's voice echoed from the hallway.
Hayato exhaled slowly.
The time had come.
---
The Walk to the Ring
The crowd roared loudly as Hayato walked toward the ring.
Bright lights blinded his vision for a moment.
But he didn't hesitate.
Each step was steady.
Each breath calm.
The ropes opened, and he stepped inside.
Across the ring stood Kazuki Hayama.
Hayama looked completely relaxed.
He rolled his shoulders while staring calmly at his opponent.
The announcer's voice echoed across the arena.
"Introducing first… the rising challenger! Hayato Kurogane!"
The crowd cheered loudly.
Hayato raised one glove briefly.
Then the announcer continued.
"And in the blue corner… ranked seventh in the featherweight division… Kazuki Hayama!"
The cheers grew even louder.
Hayama raised his glove casually.
Then the referee stepped between them.
"Protect yourselves at all times."
Hayato and Hayama moved toward the center.
Their eyes locked.
Hayama smiled slightly.
"You made it."
Hayato answered calmly.
"I said I would."
Hayama chuckled.
"Good."
They touched gloves.
Then returned to their corners.
The bell rang.
DING
---
Round One
Hayama moved first.
His footwork was light and effortless.
He circled the ring slowly.
Hayato stayed in the center.
Guard high.
Eyes sharp.
Hayama suddenly attacked.
Jab.
The punch shot forward like lightning.
Hayato slipped it by a fraction.
The crowd gasped.
Hayama smiled.
"Nice reflex."
Then he attacked again.
Jab.
Cross.
Hayato blocked the cross and stepped back.
Hayama didn't chase.
Instead, he circled again.
Testing distance.
Testing rhythm.
Hayato remembered Kamogawa's words.
Control the fight.
He stepped forward.
Hayama instantly reacted.
Jab.
Hayato slipped it.
Then countered.
CRACK
The punch grazed Hayama's guard.
Hayama stepped back slightly.
His eyes sharpened.
"So you're setting traps already."
Hayato didn't respond.
Hayama attacked again.
Jab.
Hook.
Cross.
Hayato slipped the jab.
Blocked the hook.
But the cross hit his guard hard.
The impact pushed him back a step.
The crowd reacted loudly.
Hayama stepped away calmly.
"You're tough."
Hayato steadied his stance.
He moved sideways.
Then forward.
Changing rhythm.
Hayama followed.
The pace of the fight slowly increased.
Punches snapped through the air.
Hayama's speed was incredible.
His jabs were almost invisible.
Hayato barely slipped another one.
Then he baited with a small opening.
Hayama reacted instantly.
Exactly what Hayato wanted.
Slip.
Pivot.
Counter.
CRACK
The punch landed clean on Hayama's cheek.
The crowd exploded with noise.
Hayama stepped back.
Then touched his cheek.
He smiled.
"Good trap."
Hayato stayed calm.
Hayama raised his guard again.
"Let's see how many more you have."
The fight continued.
Hayama attacked faster now.
Jab.
Jab.
Cross.
Hayato slipped two punches.
But the third grazed his head.
The speed was overwhelming.
Still, Hayato didn't panic.
He adjusted his movement.
Controlled his breathing.
Waited.
Hayama attacked again.
Hayato slipped.
Then countered.
CRACK
Another clean hit.
The crowd roared again.
Hayama's smile widened.
"Interesting."
The bell rang.
DING
---
Between Rounds
Hayato returned to his corner.
Ippo immediately handed him water.
"That was amazing!"
Hayato wiped sweat from his face.
"He's faster than I thought."
Kamogawa leaned forward.
"But you landed two clean counters."
Hayato nodded.
"He's testing me."
Kamogawa's voice was calm.
"He hasn't shown his full speed yet."
Hayato took a deep breath.
"I know."
Across the ring, Hayama sat quietly in his corner.
His coach spoke quickly.
But Hayama simply smiled.
Then he looked across the ring at Hayato.
His eyes were sharper now.
The bell rang again.
DING
Round two had begun.
And the real fight was about to start.
Chapter 67: Speed Unleashed
The bell for the second round echoed through the arena.
DING
The crowd's roar grew louder as both fighters stepped forward again.
Hayato Kurogane raised his guard, eyes focused on the man in front of him. His breathing remained calm, but his mind was fully alert.
Across the ring, Kazuki Hayama rolled his shoulders lightly.
Then he smiled.
"Warm-up's over."
Before Hayato could react—
Hayama moved.
A blur shot forward.
JAB
The punch snapped against Hayato's guard before he could slip it.
The speed was completely different from the first round.
Hayato's eyes widened slightly.
Hayama attacked again.
Jab.
Jab.
Cross.
The punches came like bullets.
Hayato slipped the first jab but barely blocked the second. The cross slammed against his gloves with heavy force.
The impact pushed him back.
The crowd gasped.
Takamura leaned forward from the audience seats.
"There it is…"
Ippo clenched his fists nervously.
"That's his real speed…"
Back in the ring, Hayato adjusted his footing.
Hayama circled smoothly.
"You handled the first round well."
His eyes sharpened.
"But this is my pace."
He rushed forward again.
Jab.
Hook.
Cross.
Hayato slipped the jab.
But the hook clipped his guard.
The cross slammed into his ribs.
THUD
Pain spread through Hayato's side.
Hayama stepped away again.
"Your traps won't work if you can't keep up."
Hayato exhaled slowly.
The difference in speed was obvious now.
But he didn't panic.
Instead, he stepped forward again.
Hayama's eyes flashed.
"Still coming?"
Hayato feinted a jab.
Hayama reacted instantly with a counter.
But Hayato moved first.
Slip.
Pivot.
Counter.
CRACK
The punch landed on Hayama's chin.
The crowd exploded with cheers.
Hayama staggered half a step back.
Then laughed.
"Nice."
He wiped a bit of sweat from his chin.
"You're stubborn."
Hayato didn't answer.
Instead, he adjusted his stance again.
His instincts sharpened.
The system flickered inside his mind.
[Combat Pressure Detected]
Opponent Speed Advantage: High
Instinct Response Adaptation: Increasing
Joe Yabuki Template Synchronization: 71%
Hayama rushed forward again.
This time even faster.
Jab.
Jab.
Hook.
Hayato slipped the first jab.
But the second grazed his forehead.
The hook struck his guard.
The impact rattled his arms.
Hayama stepped inside.
Body shot.
THUD
Hayato's ribs screamed in pain.
The crowd gasped.
Hayama stepped away again.
"Feel that?"
Hayato clenched his teeth.
But his eyes remained calm.
He stepped forward again.
Hayama laughed.
"You're crazy."
Hayato threw a jab.
Hayama slipped it easily.
Then countered.
But Hayato predicted it.
Slip.
Pivot.
Counter.
CRACK
The punch landed clean again.
Hayama's head snapped slightly.
The crowd roared.
Takamura grinned from the stands.
"Hahaha! That rookie's instincts are insane!"
Ippo leaned forward nervously.
"But Hayama's still controlling the fight…"
Inside the ring, Hayama's smile faded slightly.
Now his eyes looked serious.
"You're adapting."
Hayato answered calmly.
"I learn fast."
Hayama cracked his neck.
"Then keep learning."
He rushed forward again.
This time his punches came like a storm.
Jab.
Cross.
Hook.
Uppercut.
Hayato slipped two punches.
Blocked another.
But the uppercut grazed his chin.
The impact shook his head.
The crowd gasped loudly.
Hayama stepped forward aggressively.
Body shot.
Hook.
Cross.
Hayato's guard barely held.
The pressure was overwhelming.
But then—
Hayato changed rhythm.
Instead of retreating…
He stepped forward.
Hayama's eyes widened slightly.
Hayato threw a feint.
Hayama countered instinctively.
Exactly what Hayato wanted.
Slip.
Pivot.
Counter.
CRACK
The punch landed square on Hayama's jaw.
The arena erupted.
Hayama stepped back quickly.
For the first time in the fight…
His balance shifted.
Hayato stood calmly in front of him.
Hayama touched his jaw slowly.
Then smiled again.
But this time…
The smile carried excitement.
"You're fun."
Hayato raised his guard again.
Hayama nodded slightly.
"Let's turn it up."
The bell rang.
DING
Round two ended.
Both fighters returned to their corners.
Hayato sat on the stool, breathing heavier now.
Sweat poured down his face.
Ippo immediately handed him water.
"You landed amazing counters!"
Hayato nodded slightly.
"But he's still faster."
Kamogawa leaned forward.
"Yes."
Hayato looked up.
Kamogawa's eyes were sharp.
"But you're beginning to read him."
Across the ring, Hayama sat calmly in his corner.
His coach spoke urgently.
But Hayama only smiled.
He looked across the ring at Hayato.
Then he whispered quietly to himself.
"Interesting challenger…"
The bell rang again.
DING
Round three began.
And the fight was about to reach its turning point.
Chapter 68: Breaking the Wall
Round three began with a deafening roar from the crowd.
DING
Hayato Kurogane adjusted his stance, feeling every bead of sweat sliding down his back. His muscles screamed from the previous rounds, but his focus was razor-sharp. Every sense was tuned to Hayama's next movement.
Across the ring, Kazuki Hayama moved like a shadow. His footwork was lightning-fast, almost too quick for the eye to follow. He circled Hayato, analyzing every shift, every micro-step, every blink.
Hayama struck first.
JAB—JAB—CROSS
Hayato slipped the first jab, ducked under the second, and blocked the cross. The force of the punch rattled his guard. The impact was heavier than before.
Hayama smiled.
"You're reading me… but not enough."
He pressed forward relentlessly.
HOOK—UPPERCUT—BODY SHOT
Hayato blocked the hook and uppercut, but the body shot connected. His ribs screamed. Pain shot through his torso, but he forced himself to stay balanced. Every step he took was measured. Every counter he threw had to be perfect.
The crowd was on their feet. The sound of gloves colliding with flesh echoed like thunder through the arena. Commentators shouted about the rising challenger and the ranked fighter, their voices barely audible over the audience's cheer.
Hayato's eyes narrowed.
This was it. This was the wall he had been training for.
He recalled Kamogawa's words: "Control the rhythm. Create traps. Force him to fight your fight."
Hayato stepped back slightly, baiting Hayama. He moved in a pattern designed to tempt the faster fighter into attacking instinctively.
Hayama's eyes flicked at the subtle opening.
CROSS
Hayato slipped the punch and pivoted, stepping forward simultaneously.
COUNTER HOOK—CRACK!
The punch landed clean on Hayama's cheek. The crowd erupted into a frenzy. Hayama staggered back, a flash of surprise crossing his face.
Takamura cheered wildly from the audience.
"Hahaha! That's it! Keep it up, rookie!"
Hayato didn't chase immediately. He held his stance, breathing evenly. This was the moment he had prepared for—testing the limits of Hayama's speed and control.
Hayama recovered almost instantly, circling cautiously now. His attacks became less reckless, more calculated. The smile on his face remained, but his eyes were sharper, more focused.
"You're adapting… faster than I expected," Hayama muttered under his breath.
Hayato's fists tightened.
"I've trained for this," he said quietly to himself.
Hayama struck again.
JAB—JAB—HOOK—CROSS
Hayato slipped the jabs and the hook, blocked the cross, and countered immediately.
STRAIGHT—CRACK!
The punch hit Hayama's shoulder hard, pushing him back again. Sweat flew, the ring canvas squeaked under their footwork, and the arena shook with excitement.
Hayato's eyes scanned every micro-movement. He noticed how Hayama shifted his weight slightly before throwing a counter. That was the key. That tiny weight transfer meant that if Hayato feinted correctly, he could exploit it.
He feinted a left jab.
Hayama reacted instinctively with a cross.
Hayato slipped under the punch, pivoted, and delivered a sharp uppercut.
CRACK!
Hayama's head snapped back. The crowd screamed louder than ever. Even Takamura was on his feet, cheering.
Hayama touched his jaw slowly, then smiled—a genuine smile this time.
"You've improved," he said.
Hayato's breathing was heavy, but his eyes were still steady.
"I will keep improving," he replied firmly.
The bell rang.
DING
Both fighters returned to their corners. Hayato's chest rose and fell rapidly. Sweat poured from his body. Pain shot through his ribs, arms, and shoulders, but his mind was clearer than ever.
Kamogawa leaned in close.
"You've broken part of the wall. But he's far from done. He will test you harder next round."
Hayato clenched his fists.
"I understand, Coach. I'm ready."
Hayama, sitting calmly in his corner, exhaled slowly.
"That was… fun," he whispered, almost to himself.
The crowd's roar echoed through the arena as the announcer called for the fourth round.
DING
The next stage of the battle had begun. And Hayato knew that if he wanted to climb past the ranked wall, he would have to unleash everything he had trained for.
Chapter 69: Rhythm of the Storm
Round four began with the crowd's excitement reaching a fever pitch.
DING
Hayato Kurogane raised his guard, feeling the tension in the air like a physical force. Every muscle in his body screamed from fatigue, but his mind remained razor-sharp. He had trained for this, anticipated this, and now it was time to execute.
Across the ring, Kazuki Hayama moved with uncanny speed. His footwork was a blur, and his eyes scanned Hayato for even the tiniest opening. He circled confidently, the calm before the storm.
Hayama struck first.
JAB—CROSS—HOOK
Hayato slipped the jab, blocked the cross, and ducked under the hook. Each punch grazed his guard with explosive force, rattling his arms and shoulders. His breathing was controlled, steady, though his muscles burned like fire.
Hayama didn't relent.
JAB—JAB—BODY SHOT
The second jab snapped against Hayato's cheek, the body shot thudding into his ribs. Pain shot through his side, sharp and fiery, but he stayed upright. He had endured worse in training.
The crowd roared as they watched the duel. Every movement, every feint, every counter was magnified under the arena lights. Commentators shouted, barely audible over the cheers, analyzing the rapid exchanges.
Hayato exhaled, focusing on the subtle shifts in Hayama's weight. Each tiny motion revealed instinctual patterns—how he distributed his weight before throwing a punch, how his eyes flicked before he attacked, and how his rhythm changed when he sensed a trap.
Hayato moved strategically, not rushing. Step forward, step back, slip, pivot.
Then he feinted a left hook.
Hayama reacted instantly with a cross.
Hayato slipped under it, pivoted, and delivered a sharp counter.
CRACK!
The punch landed clean on Hayama's jaw. The crowd erupted, sensing a pivotal moment in the fight.
Hayama staggered slightly, adjusting his stance. His eyes narrowed—not in anger, but in excitement.
"You've improved," Hayama said under his breath.
Hayato wiped sweat from his brow.
"I've trained for this," he replied quietly.
Hayama's next attack was a storm. Jab, hook, cross, uppercut, body shot—a relentless barrage designed to overwhelm. Hayato ducked and slipped where possible, absorbing what he couldn't avoid, and gradually began to control the pace. He baited Hayama, forcing him to overextend, then countered precisely.
CRACK—CRACK—CRACK
Each punch landed with impact, each counter breaking the rhythm Hayama tried to impose.
The crowd was on their feet, cheering, screaming, and gasping with every blow.
Hayato's vision narrowed. He was in the flow of combat, every muscle, every neuron, tuned to reading Hayama's speed, every shift in rhythm. This was more than instinct now—it was training, strategy, and raw adaptation fused together.
Hayama feinted a jab. Hayato anticipated it instinctively, slipped, and countered with a clean uppercut.
CRACK!
Hayama's head snapped back slightly, his balance disturbed for the first time.
Takamura yelled from the stands.
"Hahaha! That's it! Keep it going, rookie!"
Hayato held his stance, breathing heavily but remaining composed.
Hayama smiled faintly, brushing sweat from his face.
"You're fun," he said.
Hayato's eyes glimmered.
"And you're fast," he replied.
The bell rang.
DING
Both fighters returned to their corners. Hayato's body ached, his ribs burned, but his mind was sharper than ever. Kamogawa stepped forward, cane tapping the canvas.
"You've begun to break through his control," Kamogawa said.
Hayato nodded, determination burning in his eyes.
"I'll break it completely," he said.
Hayama, calm and poised, looked across the ring.
"This is getting interesting," he whispered.
The crowd's cheers intensified as they awaited round five. The storm was only beginning, and Hayato knew the real test of the ranked wall was about to come.
Chapter 70: The Pressure Builds
Round five began with a deafening roar from the crowd.
DING
Hayato Kurogane stood in the center of the ring, his breathing steady despite the pounding fatigue in his limbs. Sweat soaked his trunks and gloves, but his focus remained unshakable. This was the stage he had trained for, the moment he had envisioned countless times in Kamogawa's gym.
Across from him, Kazuki Hayama moved with fluid precision. His footwork was nearly imperceptible, a blur as he circled Hayato. Every slight shift of his weight, every flicker of his eyes, was designed to probe for weaknesses.
Hayama struck first.
JAB—CROSS—HOOK
Hayato slipped the jab, blocked the cross, and pivoted under the hook. The force of the blows rattled his arms, his shoulders burning from repeated impact. Yet, he remained centered, watching, analyzing.
Hayama's strikes grew faster, each punch a test of Hayato's speed, endurance, and mental focus.
JAB—HOOK—BODY SHOT—UPPERCUT
Hayato absorbed what he couldn't evade, feeling the pain radiate through his ribs and shoulders. But instead of panicking, he began subtly controlling distance, adjusting his footwork to draw Hayama into predictable patterns.
The crowd's roar intensified, sensing the tension of the fight. Commentators shouted about the challenger's daring, the ranked fighter's speed, and the shifting momentum of the battle.
Hayato feinted a jab.
Hayama reacted instinctively with a cross.
Hayato slipped under it, pivoted, and delivered a sharp counter.
CRACK!
The punch landed clean on Hayama's jaw, and for a split second, his balance faltered. The audience gasped.
Hayama straightened instantly, eyes narrowing in challenge.
"You're fast… but can you maintain it?" he asked under his breath.
Hayato's mind raced. He adjusted his strategy, combining his growing instinct with the timing and rhythm he had trained tirelessly to master. Step, pivot, feint, counter. Each movement was calculated, each punch a precise response to Hayama's aggression.
Hayama unleashed a relentless combination: jab, cross, hook, body shot, uppercut, jab.
Hayato dodged, blocked, and countered where possible. With each successful counter, he chipped away at Hayama's control, forcing the faster fighter to hesitate, to rethink, to react.
CRACK—CRACK—CRACK
The sound of impact echoed like thunder through the arena. Hayato's counters began to find openings in Hayama's defense. For the first time, the ranked fighter's attacks were not entirely dictating the flow.
Hayama's eyes flickered with recognition.
"You're adapting… too quickly," he muttered.
Hayato steadied himself, feeling his body screaming in protest from the previous rounds. Pain cut through his ribs, his shoulders ached, yet his mind remained clear. This was the culmination of every drop of sweat in training, every sparring session, every correction Kamogawa had drilled into him.
He feinted a cross. Hayama reacted instinctively with a hook.
Hayato slipped under the punch and countered with a crisp uppercut.
CRACK!
Hayama staggered back slightly, a rare sign of imbalance. The crowd erupted. Takamura shouted wildly from the audience.
"Hahaha! That's it! Show him what you've got!"
Hayato didn't press recklessly. He maintained his stance, breathing controlled, watching, calculating. He had begun to take control of the fight's rhythm.
Hayama, usually calm and composed, took a brief step back. For the first time, a flicker of uncertainty appeared in his eyes.
"You're… impressive," he whispered, a hint of respect threading his words.
The bell rang.
DING
Round five ended. Both fighters returned to their corners, bodies drenched, muscles screaming in protest. Hayato's mind, however, felt sharper than ever. He had survived the storm of Hayama's speed and begun to impose his own rhythm on the fight.
Kamogawa leaned in, cane tapping the canvas.
"You're breaking through his wall," he said.
Hayato's fists clenched, determination blazing.
"I'll break it completely," he vowed.
Hayama, still in his corner, wiped sweat from his face and looked across the ring with narrowed eyes.
"This fight… is getting real," he muttered.
The arena buzzed with excitement. Round six promised to push both fighters to the limits, and Hayato knew that the turning point of the battle was about to arrive.