Alpha and Omega Arc

Alpha and Omega Arc
Information
Volumes	135-138, (4 Volumes)
Manga Rounds	1376-1413, (38 Chapters)
Chronology
Previous	Grim Reaper to the World Arc
Next	Judgement Day Arc

The Alpha and Omega Arc is the fifty-third story arc in the series and the seventh in the Bold Retirement Saga.

The alpha, former Indonesian featherweight champion Wally is going to face the omega, the WBA featherweight champion Ricardo. For the semi-finals, IBF junior lightweight champion Volg is fighting in his second title defence. The match is set at the Arena México in Mexico. Ippo and Sendō go to Mexico once again, where they help Wally and Volg by being their sparring partner. Ippo is requested to be Wally's second, letting him learn and witness a match at the highest peak from up close.

Summary

Ippo and Takamura's Challenge

Ippo hitting the mitts with Takamura.

Takamura wakes up near the area where Ippo does roadwork with Taihei and Kintarō and attempts to scare him, however, Ippo ran too far ahead of his students, making Takamura only scare Taihei and Kintarō. As Ippo ran back over, Takamura asks him if he is fired up from seeing his friends have world title matches, which Ippo admitted that he is excited. Takamura asks if Ippo is jealous of them since he defeated them and should have been the one going where they're going instead, but Ippo declines, as he is even rooting for them. Hearing Ippo's answer, Takamura suddenly dashes as Ippo follows, keeping up with the world champion even when he went full speed. Takamura is shocked as he notices that Ippo is keeping up with him while wearing his weights. Taihei and Kintarō are left behind, surprised that they can't even see Ippo and Takamura. Ippo keeps up with Takamura as they dash until they both stop by a shrine. Ippo begins to leave since he has work to do, while a hungry Takamura eats the offerings that Ippo warns are for the gods, commenting that he will get smote. Later in the day at the Kamogawa gym, Shinoda hears sounds of punches hitting the mitts, and learns from Aoki, Kimura, and Itagaki that due to unfinished business in the morning, that they are doing mitt practice until one of them quits. Watching Ippo hit Takamura's mitts, Shinoda notices how they are in sync with Kamogawa's rhythm, and that their punches seemingly reject anyone else holding for them. In the gym's office, Kamogawa and Yagi listen to the sounds of the punches hitting the mitts, with the former instinctively moving his hands as if he is the one holding the mitts for Ippo, smiling in nostalgia. After Ippo lands a body blow punch on the mitt, Takamura rushes to the bathroom to defecate, ending the practise session with Ippo thinking that he must have gotten smote.

Chances

Dankichi and Miguel talking about Wally fighting Ricardo.

At the Marvelous gym, Volg and Wally get heated during a spar, making Miguel and Dankichi have to hold their boxers back as they have a heated argument, since Wally is irritated that Volg keeps telling him he can't do what he requests. As Wally mentions that Volg was criticising Miguel, Volg asks Miguel what he teaches Wally, noting his various unique fouls. Frustrated that Volg calls his attacks fouls, Wally runs out of the gym as Volg follows him. Dankichi tells Miguel that he understands that he wants to take a fighter rooted in freedom and push his strengths to the limit, but, remembering Bryan Hawk, warns that even the most gifted geniuses fall eventually if they get too wild. Miguel claims that he does not restrict his boxer's freedom, since he only gives them strategies and teaches them techniques, being driven to see how bright his raw material he polishes shines. Dankichi mentions how it is arrogant to compare their boxer to a work of art or call them masterpieces since they are just lucky enough to encounter the most beautiful of material, referencing what Kamogawa told him. Agreeing that he was lucky, Miguel notes that he has nothing to give Wally but boxing, and that he is not holding back nor will he have any regrets as his fight against Ricardo approaches. Miguel asks Dankichi what he thinks Wally's chances are. Dankichi asks Miguel what he thinks Wally's chances are against Ricardo. Miguel laughs at the thought of thinking of chances, questioning why they should quantify their excitement and a young person's future. Miguel tells Dankichi how Wally is his sun, and will shine brighter and hotter when he goes against Ricardo, wanting that radiance to illuminate the rest of his years.

Wally and Volg talking about the former wanting to repay Miguel.

Outside the Marvelous Gym, Wally reveals to Volg that he wants to be a zoologist, wanting to be close to animals and to know why animals are dying out by topics such as deforestation, environmental pollution, and global warming. Wally claims that Miguel taught him many things outside of boxing, wanting to repay him by becoming the world champion. Volg thinks Wally is incredible for thinking about environmental issues, but believes that he has no chance of winning against Ricardo, however, the chances of him shaking off the darkness aren't zero.

The Sun

Kumi thinking how the sun will always rise again.

Elsewhere, Ippo learns from Kumi while fishing that Mashiba broke his jaw, specifically the lower jawbone which has a clean break, making it possible to heal quickly so he can come back to boxing in three to four months. Ippo informs her that he is going to Mexico to see Ricardo and Wally's match, planning to watch it for research. Kumi asks Ippo what Miyata means to him. Ippo answers that he is his goal, before adding that "was" his goal is more correct. Kumi is glad to hear Ippo say that Miyata was his goal in past tense, but is worried about Ricardo being the one he admired. Ippo mentions that he has a different goal now: to make Taihei and Kintarō win as professional boxers. Seeing Ippo laugh with his students, Kumi thinks about how Ippo's smile is strong and he warms everyone around him like the sun. Walking away from the fishing spot, Kumi tells Ippo how she was scared and worried as usual when watching her brother fight against Juan, however, thanks to Ippo staying next to her and explaining things to her, she was able to watch and cheer. She thanks Ippo for helping her realise of how much she is proud of her brother. Thinking about how Wally, Mashiba, and potentially Sendō having world title matches, and Ippo looking up at those he once fought while he is sinking, she wonders what kind of feelings will stir up. Wanting to think what she is thinking is impossible, she remembers that she compared him to the sun, and no matter how far he sinks, the sun will rise again.

Taihei and Kintarō excited about getting stronger.

Later outside the Kamogawa gym, Itagaki tells Aoki and Kimura that Ippo is flying to Mexico. The three don't believe Wally will defeat Ricardo. Once they enter the gym, they hear Shinoda frantically requesting for Taihei to stop punching his mitts. Aoki is surprised that Taihei and Kintarō have punches that can hurt the wrists of the veteran trainer. Shinoda comments how it is more their speed than power that gave him trouble, as their combinations flowed together nicely. Itagaki claims that the two students hit with all their strength because since Ippo's wrists are strong, instead of absorbing the punches that hit the mitts, he pushes them back. Taihei and Kintarō explain how it is like punching concrete, so they have to stay focused and only punching when their fists are hard and straight. They add how at first, they would hit where the mitts are placed, however, Ippo has started to knock every punch they throw down. Shinoda is shocked to hear that, as it is just like using counters, something that he was poor at as an active boxer, having to rely on dual exchanges. Shinoda wonders how many weapons are at Ippo's disposal now in his new environment, as he is thinking and acting on his own, overcoming his weaknesses.

The Return to Mexico

Wally meeting Ippo in Mexico.

Ippo arrives to Mexico and meets Sendō and Yanaoka at the airport. Yanaoka claims that Wally defeated most of the sparring partners from Volg's crew, so he is counting on Ippo and Sendō on being their sparring partners. Outside, they meet up with the Marakas Brothers, who begins to drive them to their gym where Volg and Wally are. Along the way, Milo states that Dankichi has been his acquaintance ever since he visited Mexico. Ippo asked Milo of Volg and Wally's condition, which Milo answered that their fine, but the lack of sparring partners is troublesome. Sendō asks why Volg and Wally can't spar each other, but Yanaoka explains that while Volg would be useful to spar against, Wally is too wild to spar with. As Ippo notes that Volg's opponent is a short fighter type, Sendō decides that Ippo will spar with Volg while he fights Wally, wanting to put him down since he is the reason he can't fight Ricardo. As Milo says that they are almost to the gym, he is about to hit someone with his vehicle. Everyone in the vehicle is shocked as they think they hit someone crossing the road, however, it is revealed to be Wally, who jumped backwards onto the vehicle to greet them.

Ippo meeting Volg at the Lucha Lucha gym.

When they arrive to the Lucha Lucha Gym, Ippo and Sendō meet with Volg. After Ippo shakes hands with Wally, the latter tries to shake hands with Sendō, but Sendō knocked his hand away, wanting to trade knuckles instead. Since Sendō closed his fist while saying that, Wally bit his fist, confusing Sendō. Miguel explains to Sendō that since the Japanese word for "knuckles" sounds the same as "food" in Indonesian, Wally responded reflexively by biting his fist due to his weight control. Dankichi asks Ippo if Kamogawa is in good health. Ippo answers that he is, which Dankichi is glad to hear, as it means that their match can still continue.

Wally and Volg's Sparring Matches

Wally sparring against Sendō.

Everyone begins watching Sendō and Wally spar without headgear. Sendō is surprised by how Wally is dodging his punches. After multiple missed jabs while both boxers moved, Sendō cuts in front of Wally and begins charging up a left Smash. Sendō throws a Smash that only grazes Wally's face since the latter turned his head to avoid a direct hit. Volg notices that Sendō trapped Wally even though it is his first time seeing him. Wally sends out quick jabs that he pulls back before it can hit Sendō before moving away with footwork. Miguel explains to Dankichi that due to his activities in Indonesia of climbing trees and catching fruit, the speed of Wally's pullback is extremely fast, making it have almost no wasted movement in setting up his next punch and that there will be nothing to there at the end of his punch to aim at. He adds that his curiosity and adaptability allows him do anything he sees. Wally throws the Smash that he saw Sendō do, which hit the shocked Sendō's guard. Volg tells Ippo how Wally has copied Sendō just like he did with him. Wally feints with the Hien and moves away from Sendō to get on the ring's ropes. Sendō, irritated, tries to attack Wally as the latter runs on the ropes. Ippo yells out to Sendō, advising him to hit his body, as body blows worked last time he fought Wally. Wally gets off the ropes and dodges Sendō's punches, however, he gets trapped at a corner. Sendō throws a left and right body blow, but Wally blocks the left and moves out of the way of the right. Wally runs on the ropes again while Sendō yells at him to come back down.

Volg hands Ippo headgear to prepare for their spar. Ippo tries to explain that he retired, but Sendō yells from the ring that Ippo did crazy things when they sparred, leaving Volg to feel that it will be great practise. As Ippo puts the headgear on, Volg requests to take the weight straps off as well, which Ippo does. As Volg motions to Sendō and Wally to leave the ring as his spar against Ippo is about to start, Ippo wonders if he can even help Volg. Sendō left the ring, while Wally sits on top of one of the ring's corner posts. Dankichi requests to Ippo to do what he always do, since Volg's opponent is an in-fighter. Ippo wants to pay Volg back as he remembers what the retired Volg helped him by sparring before his match against Sawamura.

Ippo using the Dempsey Roll against Volg.

When the spar begins, Ippo rushes towards Volg, following him while punching his guard repeatedly. Volg is unable to escape as Ippo keeps closing in on him, punching his guard while dodging his punches. As Volg steps back and Ippo continues charging at him again, Volg launches the White Fang. Ippo catches both hits of the technique, which made Volg feel like he hit brick wall. Ippo and Volg throw left and right jabs while moving along the side of the ring at close range. Volg, surprised about Ippo's footwork and punches, sends out a strong right straight. Ippo ducks to the left under the punch and lands a Liver Blow. Volg throws a left uppercut that grazes Ippo's face and then steps back to throw a Hien that Ippo catches. Ippo blocks a barrage of punches coming at his face before realising that Volg will strike from below where he isn't guarding. As Ippo moves his guard to protect his body, he is hit by a left uppercut that went between his arms, and then a right hook, directly getting hit by the White Fang. While Ippo is stunned from the attack, Volg moves away with footwork and lands a Hien. Ippo follows Volg and, after getting hit again by a left jab, he ducks under another one while pressing his right fist on the middle of Volg's outstretched arm, and then slides his right fist to Volg's face. The shocked Volg recognises the technique as the Parry Counter, something Ippo never had. Volg retaliates with a left uppercut that lands before remembering that he can't hit Ippo anymore since he is retired, wondering why Ippo even retired in the first place. Ippo crouches down and throws a Gazelle Punch that Volg blocks, however, it pushes him to a corner. Volg becomes shocked as he sees Ippo motion the Dempsey Roll, however, he prepares for it as he remembers countering the technique before. Waiting for a moment to strike, he is surprised to see that the Dempsey Roll's first hit is coming from below. Sendō gets in the ring and stops Ippo, scolding both of the boxers as it was suppose to only be a "touch spar".

Trigger

Sendō arguing with Volg about Ippo.

As Dankichi thinks about how Ippo's weight straps strengthen his arms and legs, his gained experience as a trainer, catching punches like he is holding mitts, as well as mastering the Parry Counter, he wonders what Kamogawa is brewing. Sitting inside the ring, Sendō scolds Volg for hitting the retired Ippo at full strength. Volg claims that he snapped after Ippo caught his best punch. Sendō believes that he caught it because Volg's weight control and exhaustion is at its peak right before a match, but Volg notes that he was beaten by Ippo who is on a long hiatus, and explained about how he was at a disadvantage. Volg and Sendō were confused about the Dempsey Roll going vertical before the spar stopped, theorising that it is the new form. Volg gets irritated, wondering why Ippo is upgrading himself and wanting more strength if he isn't coming back, arguing with Sendō about him not knowing why Ippo retired and won't come back. Dankichi stops Volg and Sendō's arguing about why Ippo is learning a new form of the Dempsey Roll by telling them that there is nothing they can do about it. Dankichi mentions that the thing clinging to Ippo is the betting on a small flickering light that has been buried and waiting for a long time, but without a trigger, nothing will happen. He adds the trigger that may form is close, and there may be more than one, but if Ippo and Kamogawa keeps their finger off the trigger, the seed will be buried forever. Dankichi tells Sendō and Volg to worry about them selves, reminding Volg of his title defence and advising Sendō that in order to defeat the greatest champion in history is to rewrite history itself, which is not something he can do alone. Sendō and Volg comment how they are confused by Dankichi's way with words.

Wally wanting Ippo to be excited for the world's greatest and his win.

In a room upstairs, Ippo wakes up with Miguel and Wally in the room. Miguel asks how Ippo is feeling, as they may need take him to the hospital. Ippo answers that it is only painful where Volg hit him and he was just tired from the flight. Wally asks Ippo, since he retired, if he no longer likes boxing, something Ippo taught him was fun and why he won't come back. Ippo answers that he still loves boxing, and, while he doesn't answer why he quit, he claims that he is giving it his all to show everyone the greatness of boxing now. Wally expresses his excitement for his match against Ricardo, wanting Ippo to watch and be excited for the world's best and his win.

Desire for a Fun Match

Ippo telling Sendō that Wally will be a challenger that is unlike anything they have seen before just the way he is.

Volg and Wally are running while Ippo and Sendō follows. Volg gets irritated at Wally for his careless actions that could get him injured before his match. Nearby, Dankichi mentions to Miguel about the pressure in Mexico that may affect Wally, which Miguel acknowledges, knowing that he has to prepare for different problems due to Wally having to fight at lower oxygen than he is used to. Dankichi points out that Ricardo is used to it, having lived and worked in the mountains since he was a child and asks Miguel if he realises that everything is set against him. Miguel claims that Ricardo was the one who sent the invitation, and since Miguel thought logic and courtesy dictated it, he made Ricardo their highest priority. Miguel adds that he has never forgotten and has always respected the spirit of the Japanese he once learned before, something he notes that Ippo taught Wally with his fists since Wally's natural raw talent allowed him to easily accept it, thinking that he has a way to win against Ricardo because he has rules that only apply to him. Sendō tells Ippo that Volg and Wally got to Mexico early to adjust their bodies to the high altitude. Ippo hopes the two win, however, Sendō thinks it won't happen because Wally lacks bloodlust. Ippo, remembering Date's amount of bloodlust couldn't stop Ricardo, thinks that Wally will be a challenger that is unlike anything they have seen before just the way he is.

Wally and Ricardo at their press conference.

At the Arena México, during the press conference for Ricardo and Wally's match, Ricardo tells the press that while Wally is an unknown variable and he has no prediction of how the match will go, he claims that the belt will not change hands. Wally, after sticking his tongue out at Ricardo, confesses that he doesn't care about the belt, only excited to fight the strongest man in the world. Wally comments that Ricardo seems strong and that the match will be fun. Ricardo tells him that there is not one boxer who says a match with him was "fun". Wally joyously claims that he will be the first, as he will be the winner. Volg stops Wally and carries him out, telling him that he is being rude to the world champion. Outside the venue, Miguel tells Ippo that he is counting on him being a second, shocking the latter.

Ippo agrees to be a second for Wally.

At the Mexican Restaurante Chávez, Ippo argues that it is too much responsibility to be a second in a world title match, however, Miguel reveals to him that he has permission from Kamogawa. Miguel notes that while he will be the chief second, Ippo will handle the chair and water as a sub, Dankichi will be the cutman, and Milo and Marascas will do the entrance and exit. Miguel adds that since Ippo is familiar with Ricardo, he hopes to get advice from him as well. Miguel and Wally guilts Ippo into helping them, with Wally noting that he has something to show Ippo and Miguel in the match.

Semi-Final - IBF Junior Lightweight Title Match - Champion Alexander Volg Zangief (Second Defence) VS. Challenger

Volg defeating his second IBF title defence opponent.

The next day, at the Arena México, the semi-final match is about to begin, with Volg and Dankichi in the ring for the former's second IBF junior lightweight world title defence match. Ippo has trouble thinking of whether he should leave his weight straps on or not, and is worried that he might make a mistake while placing his corner's chair down. Miguel asks if Ippo is going to watch Volg's match as it is about to begin. Ippo is sure Volg will be fine. In the ring, Dankichi comments to Volg that his opponent resembles Ippo, making it the right call to spar with Ippo. When the match begins, Volg is still feeling the pain in his ribs from when Ippo hit him with a body blow during their spar, causing sharp pain when he throws a right and feels that there is no guarantee he can take a hit there again. As his opponent charges towards him, Volg baits with a left jab, and throws a White Fang after his opponent ducks down. However, he is unable to throw the right overhand due to the pain in his ribs, letting his opponent retaliate with punches that get dodged. Volg knows that it is Ippo's fault, while Ippo watches and wonders why Volg is moving stiff. Volg has trouble keeping his opponent away due to not being able to use his right because of his spar against Ippo. When Volg blocks a liver blow, he feels extreme pain, cursing Ippo. The challenger continues chasing Volg, while the latter repeatedly lands precise lefts when given the opportunity to prevent getting hit on the body. When the challenger ducks under a left jab and begins throwing a liver blow from below, Volg lands a left uppercut that downs the challenger. The referee decides to end the match without a count, resulting in Volg's victory. Dankichi runs into the ring, praising Volg for his victory and forcing the match into having exchanges that left him surprised. Watching the match on TV, Ippo is shocked that it already ended, wanting more time to prepare to be Wally's second.

Main Event - WBA Featherweight Title Match - Champion Ricardo Martínez (Twenty-Third Defence) VS. Challenge Wally (WBA Rank 1)

Wally and Ricardo face off in the ring.

Dankichi goes to Wally's waiting room, thinking that it will have a serious atmosphere. However, when he opens the door, he is shocked to Miguel and Wally so calm, with the latter rolling around and doing flips. Ippo, however, seems extremely stressed. At the audience area, Volg goes to sit with Sendō and Yanaoka. Volg asks Sendō, since the match will decide who he will fight next, who he wants to fight. Sendō answers with Ricardo, as he is the strongest and beating him will prove he is the strongest in the world. As Wally and Ricardo's match is about to begin, both enter the ring. As the national anthems play, Wally tells Miguel that he will give him the champion belt, as he just wants to end the match, remembering when Ricardo told him that no one said matches with him were deemed "fun". While Bill and Ricardo are surprised to see Ippo as one of Wally's seconds, Bill mentions to Ricardo to just focus on the match. Sendō asks Volg about the three sparring partners that were world rankers, which Volg explained how they couldn't see his punches coming and were unable to continue when Wally made cuts above their eyes. Volg adds it wasn't the first time he has seen it, and Sendō thinks that it is a type of surprise attack. Dankichi asks Ippo about how Ricardo fights, and Ippo claims that he uses the first round to scope things out, stays at middle range while not throwing a lot of punches, and skilled at reading opponents' habits and strategies. Miguel tells Ippo and Dankichi that Wally will be going full throttle from the start.

Wally landing the first blow on Ricardo.

As soon as the match begins, Wally dashes towards Ricardo at full speed. Ricardo moves away, while Wally doesn't change course, running straight towards the corner post, doing a flip, and using his hands to bounce off the post and turn around to face Ricardo again, leaving everyone shocked. Wally chases Ricardo around the ring by running in a straight line and bouncing off the ropes when he runs pass him too far. Sendō tells Volg how Ricardo is unfazed by the weirdness, since boxers have come at him with all they have, but no cheap tricks or have worked, nor has Ricardo ever got a good punch to the face. Wally ducks low and runs even faster. Ricardo sidesteps out of the way, but as Wally is passing him by, a right overhand whizzes pass his face, hitting his face. The whole venue is shocked by the event, including Ricardo. Ricardo is confused as he is unable to find Wally in the ring. Wally, who is hiding behind the referee, throws a punch at Ricardo, and was disappointed when he missed. As the audience jeers at Wally, one of Ricardo's seconds claim that they can overlook it since it has only just began, however, Miguel states that they have only just started. Both boxers face each other again, with Ricardo holding both fists up in a high guard to observe, and Wally wide open as he puts his hands behind his back. With both arms behind his back, Wally feints a right overhand before throwing a left uppercut which changes trajectory mid-way into a hook. Ricardo blocks the hook, and Wally quickly retreats. Sendō notices that the way he threw the hook was like a vertical Hien. Volg knows that he wouldn't be able to do that himself, and that Wally's unbelievably flexible joints give him great range of motion. Wally throws quick left jabs at Ricardo's guard, bounces himself off the ropes, and goes behind the referee to limit Ricardo's sight on him before throwing more left jabs at his guard. As Wally continues running around the ring, Ippo wonders how Ricardo or anyone can adjust to against that type of boxing.

Ricardo feeling like he is put in uncharted territory.

The first round ends, and, at the Kamogawa gym, Itagaki, Taihei, and Kintarō are watching the match on TV, but Taihei and Kintarō are more focused on Ippo as a second. Itagaki tells them how watching Wally is a good reference to him since Wally's style is like a scaled--up version of his. Taihei and Kintarō note how Ricardo couldn't move at all due to dealing with someone that fast, but Itagaki mentions that there are downsides to moving fast like that since one can't make precise punches nor put much power to them. Itagaki wonders if Wally isn't planning on knocking out Ricardo, and instead beating him by points, but thinks that Ricardo won't let that happen. Walking away from his corner, Ricardo admits to himself that he is having trouble and has never encountered a style like Wally's before, putting him in uncharted territory.

Round two begins with Ricardo with his guard up and Wally jumping ready to go. Wally approaches Ricardo and throws punches at Ricardo's high guard before landing a left body blow and taking a distance once more. Wally continues attacking Ricardo's guard with a barrage of punches before retreating with a body blow. As the second round ends with Ricardo not throwing a single punch again, Ippo notices that Ricardo still hasn't grasped Wally yet. At Ricardo's corner, Bill asks Ricardo what he thinks of the boxer he ordered, to which Ricardo answers that he is exactly what he ordered and, as of now, a bit too much for him. Ricardo adds that Wally has the best natural talents he has ever seen, and has someone giving him the devil's teachings.

Ricardo realising Wally is going for his eyes.

Round three begins with Ricardo having his guard up again, making Sendō jeer. Volg tells him how it is not that Ricardo doesn't like trading punches, but he also doesn't like get beat on one-sidedly, predicting that if he tries to punch, it will turn back on him. Ricardo thinks of how Wally's punches use flexibility and bending, as well as speed to make the impact feel like a getting pierced by the tip of a blade, which is being aimed at his eyes, as he is trying to blind him. As Ricardo and many others realise Wally is aiming for his eyes, Volg tells Sendō how Wally's sparring partners had to drop out due to injuries to or around their eyes. Ricardo tries to throw a left when Wally goes in to hit his body, but Wally was taught how to prepare for such a situation, which let Wally dodge the left and throw his punch towards Ricardo's face. Ricardo blocks the punch, and the third round ends shortly after. At the corner, Miguel tells Wally to go harder and not lose focus, while Bill advises Ricardo to use the data he gathered the past three rounds to trap the challenger.

As round four begins, Ricardo thinks he can determine where Wally will go by the shift of his body weight. Ricardo tries to cut him off as he sees he is going to the right, however, Wally hangs onto the ropes with both feet off the canvas, shocking Ricardo. Wally leaves the ropes and throws jabs at Ricardo's guard before going back to the ropes. Ricardo sees that Wally is about to bounce off the ropes again and prepares to catch him, however, Wally throws a right uppercut from a low angle and with both feet coming off the canvas, missing Ricardo. Ricardo tries to take the opportunity to attack Wally while he is open, however, Wally uses the ropes to bounce off to the side to avoid Ricardo's attack before his feet touched the canvas. Ricardo wonders how he will be able to trap him, realising that if this goes on, it is highly likely Wally will win by decision. Wally motions his hand, telling Ricardo to come on. Bill feels as if he ordered something wild, as his match against Wally is being used for him to keep his fight sense sharp and prepare for a strategy against Sendō that got postponed. Bill remembers when he told Ricardo about how he would be fighting Wally next, as the fighter who pushed the Dempsey boy with just three matches in his record and wildness that may surpass Sendō. Ricardo decides to accept Wally's invitation as he rushes towards him.

Wally countering Ricardo's body blow attempt.

Ricardo and Wally enter an in-fight, with Ricardo throwing left jabs, and Wally using unorthodox punches. Both boxers do not land a hit, and the in-fight ends when Wally throws a left Cross Counter that Ricardo barely blocks with one hand. Miguel tells Ippo that since his lost to him, Wally has been fighting across the world, and has become a warrior that knows great oceans. Dankichi adds that it means that if he can't push against those waves, he will be swallowed up. Volg informs Sendō that Wally was decided to be Ricardo's opponent as an experiment to get an anti-tiger strategy. Volg explains how it is like when he sparred Wally, he came out nearly unscathed because he experienced wildness from Sendō already, so Ricardo is doing the same with Wally to get the experience of wildness to face Sendō. Sendō and Volg begin cheering for Wally loudly since he is being treated like a tester for Sendō. With Ricardo on the attack, he sends out a left jab that Wally counters, however, Ricardo blocks the counter one-handed. Ricardo thought that if his straight punches get sent out while Wally throws long arching punches, his own should be hitting first, but with Wally's fast hand speed, he deduces that Wally is the fastest boxer he has faced by far. Ricardo also notes how Wally's ability to move around as if he is hopping treetop to treetop with such high speed makes him wonder how he will catch him. Ricardo decides to use body blows to slow him down, but, when he goes for one, Wally knocks his fist down, and hits Ricardo's face with a right hook. The audience is in shock by how powerful Wally is as the fourth round comes to a close.

Bill realising the greatest weakness of his camp is that they let Ricardo isolate himself.

As Ricardo walks to his corner, he thinks how Wally has already took prevention measures against body blows, as if someone has already used them against him before. Ricardo can't think of anything to approach him with, and decides to just use theories until one works. Bill calls the referee over to tell him to warn Wally's side about using the ropes too much. At Wally's corner, Ippo wonders why Wally and his seconds look happy all of a sudden, since he noticed that Ricardo was able to close the distance, hurting their goal to win by points. The referee warns Wally that if continues to use the ropes too much, he will deduct points. Dankichi argues that Wally is not using them unfairly, only to move around, and questions if it is because of the enemy side or a hometown advantage. The referee claims that it is a grey area that leans more to it being illegal. Miguel decides to not argue and believes it is time for Wally's feet to stay on the ground. At Ricardo's side, Bill stresses how Wally's side has exposed the weakness of the champion's seconds, as they have let Ricardo isolate as he believes that there is no one that can advise him. Ricardo tells Bill that maybe it is because he respects his decisions he makes, and that he has nothing but gratitude for his seconds.

Ricardo and Wally exchanging punches at close range.

As the fifth round begins, Ricardo and Wally enter an exchange where neither one lands a blow on each other. Dankichi tells Ippo how Miguel and Wally set this scenario up by having Wally go full speed and get ahead in points to make Ricardo have no choice but to go into the offensive in time for Wally to do the same. As Ricardo notes to himself how against a genius, he will still choose the basics, he lands a fast left jab on Wally's face. After having hit Wally with a fast left jab, Ricardo attempts to press forward, but Wally keeps him at bay with a barrage of punches coming from many different angles hitting his guard and getting dodged. Ricardo lands three left jab on Wally's face in between the barrage surprising everyone in the audience. Wally uses footwork to get away and runs into the referee accidentally due to losing control. Ricardo ponders that he has no special abilities, only moving like a normal man, so he can only elevate the fundamentals by polishing the basics no one chooses to use. Ippo notices that Wally's breathing is getting ragged and suggests for Miguel to give advice. While Dankichi believes that is was expected for Wally to be exhausted by now, Miguel claims that it actually isn't. Miguel explains that once Wally showed the difference between his speed and Ricardo's he was supposed to step back and view his whole body from afar and use the opened space of the ring, however, Ricardo has placed himself in the middle of the ring, releasing silent pressure. Miguel informs Ippo and Dankichi that if Wally survives the round, he will tell him to use the final trump card. While Ricardo is throwing left jabs at Wally who is moving around him, Wally dodges and throws unorthodox punches that also get blocked. Ricardo deduces that no matter what strange angle the punch is coming from there is one rule that must be followed: punches have to be aimed at the upper half of the body, so he just has to protect his vitals and avoid critical blows. As Ricardo presses forward while hitting Wally's face with three more left jabs, Bill reflects that Ricardo possesses the utmost limits of the fundamentals, which is the ultimate final goal of boxing. Ricardo traps Wally at the corner and lands a one-two on his face, causing him to go down.

Miguel revealing the final trump card.

Wally gets up at the count of eight and the match continues. Ricardo keeps Wally at the corner despite Wally's Corner Work as Ricardo blocks his escape routes and hits Wally's face with quick jabs. Wally begins throwing a barrage of punches to try and get out by using force. Ricardo hits Wally with a fast jab. Miguel describes Ricardo as a textbook, as he uses the fundamentals to the utmost limit unlike anyone else and is like a machine with an unshakeable will. Ricardo lands another left and follows up with a right, however, Wally dodges the right. Ricardo decides to eliminate Wally's mobility by throwing a left body blow. After it lands, Wally immediately responds with a left uppercut that Ricardo blocks. Wally escapes the corner as the fifth round ends. Wally arrives to his corner. Sendō realises that the punch Wally threw at the end was a Smash. Wally mentions to Ippo how it is thanks to him that he withstood Ricardo's body blows, as he trained his body ever since his fight with him, thanking him. Miguel requests for Ippo to tell Sendō something. Miguel tells Wally the final trump card: to be free and just have fun. At Ricardo's corner, Bill, predicting that Wally will be gambling it all in the next round, advises Ricardo to prepare himself and when he comes, ambush him. Ricardo declines the advice, as he plans to take the initiative, refusing to let Wally take the pace a second time. Ippo goes to the audience area where Sendō is to give him Miguel's message.

As the sixth round begins, Wally goes to the centre of the ring and stomps his feet to signal an exchange with Ricardo. The audience gets loud and stomps their feet in excitement. Ricardo thinks how the crowd has expectations for him and Wally, but more than anyone, Ricardo has expectations, wondering if Wally can test him and see how strong he has become. Ricardo and Wally have a close range exchange at the centre of the ring. At first, Ricardo's punches land precisely on their target, and Wally misses his punches, however, both boxers land a straight on each other's face in a dual exchange, which Bill has not remembered ever seeing Ricardo get a direct right to the face before. Wally spun his neck to nullify the damage, letting him regain his footing faster than Ricardo. Wally goes toward Ricardo and sends out a right, however, he loses his balance and rolls on the canvas all the way to the ropes, causing a slip to be declared. Wally gets up immediately. Bill orders Ricardo to get away, as he thinks it is dangerous, however, Ricardo stomps his foot down, signalling for Wally to continue fighting him as the centre of the ring. Bill remembers how a young Ricardo came to him and asked how it feels to be strong, thinking how Ricardo has never changed.

Another exchange happens between Ricardo and Wally at the centre of the ring, with both boxers landing hits on each other. Their punches miss each other until Ricardo throws a few high punches to make Wally's body open, letting Ricardo land a liver blow. Thanks to fighting Ippo, Wally is able to continue, throwing and missing another punch. Ricardo feints a left jab and lands a right straight on Wally, sending him down. Wally gets up immediately and the match continues. Miguel remembers his meeting with Wally, where he asked Wally if he wanted to try boxing. Wally joined him after hearing that he would love it. Miguel remembered how they travelled around the world and on the final page, were hopes, dreams, and spirit like the morning sun illuminating everything in its path. As Wally and Ricardo's close range exchange that Ricardo is dominating in continues, Wally thinks how Miguel has let him go to many new places, meeting new people, letting him have this fun match, and is thankful to him for everything. Wally hits his legs to prevent them from sleeping before going out and attacking Ricardo's guard with more punches that makes Ricardo get pushed back. Ricardo believes that Wally has reached the heights that he and other boxers have reached.

Ricardo defeating Wally.

As Ricardo begins hitting him with counters, Miguel wishes for everyone to see his last sun and how brightly he shines. In the audience, Volg asks Ippo what he wanted to say. Ippo reveals that Wally wanted to tell Sendō that the rest is up to him. Wally begins throwing Smashes, barely missing Ricardo. As Wally throws a Smash, Ricardo dodges and grins while throwing a right counter that lands cleanly on Wally's face. Wally stays standing, and both boxers move their fist at the same time getting ready to attack, however, Ricardo is faster, hitting Wally with another right straight before Wally could finish throwing another Smash. Wally falls, and the referee stops the match, ending the match in Ricardo's victory. Ippo carries Miguel into the ring with him as Dankichi follows to check on Wally as Ricardo's side celebrates in the ring.

The other winner.

As Ricardo wears his WBA featherweight champion belt, his challenger, Wally is laying on the canvas not moving. Bill tells Ricardo he did a good job, but sees that he is bothered about Wally not moving. Ricardo walks over to Wally, remembering how it was the first time someone stood with him at the same peak as him, thinking that Wally is amazing, but guesses that he won't be able to tell him that. Wally regains consciousness and sticks his tongue out at Ricardo and proclaims that he won. Miguel helps him up, and Wally tells Miguel that he is satisfied, but knows he can't do that again. Ricardo sees that Wally's value in a match is whether he has fun or not, and wins if he did have fun, but he thinks that he himself didn't lose in that category either. As Wally leaves with his seconds, Ricardo hears sounds of fists cracking, and sees Sendō glaring at him next to the ring. Sendō thinks how Wally left the rest to him as Ricardo walks away.

Fire

Wanpo getting hit by Sarate.

Three days later, outside, Taihei and Kintarō asks Itagaki when Ippo will be coming back. Itagaki claims that Wally was hospitalised after the match and is still unconscious, so nobody is leaving his side. Kumi approaches the three, as she heard that Ippo would be there, but learns that he isn't back yet. Taihei and Kintarō talks about how great Ippo was being a second for a world title match, and thinks that Ippo may say that he wants to have a match again. Kumi gets irritated hearing them suggest that Ippo may want to fight again, and decides to play with Wanpo. She notices Wanpo about to shake paws with a black cat, thinking that Wanpo is about to make a new friend, however, as Wanpo reaches he left paw towards the cat, the cat throws a right counter, hitting Wanpo on the face. Wanpo playfully chases Sarate around. The annoyed Sarate attacks Wanpo to make him leave him alone. Taihei and Kintarō tells Kumi that the cat has been coming to the area at some point and Wanpo likes him, but the cat just finds him annoying, wondering why the cat keeps coming back. Taihei and Kintarō notes that Wanpo has more destructive power, so he only needs to get one hit in, but he is too nice just like his owner. After the cat leaves, Kumi decides to go fishing while waiting for Ippo to get back, while Taihei, Kintarō, Itagaki, and Wanpo follows. Seeing how Kumi even got her own fishing gear, Itagaki hopes for Ippo to see Kumi first when he gets back.

Ippo hitting the mitts with Kamogawa.

When Ippo gets back, he goes to the Kamogawa gym to see Kamogawa. Ippo informs Kamogawa that he has learned a lot and had many feelings from his trip to Mexico. He adds that he noticed that there wasn't enough time for Wally to prepare for a world title match, and that Sendō claimed that he didn't have enough bloodlust, and he thought that the atmosphere was too relaxed. Ippo believes that Miguel is a great trainer and second, as he saw that he made the best of Wally's abilities and personality, and prepared the perfect training environment and advice. Kamogawa states that Wally is retiring, as he right eye may never fully recover. Ippo thinks that the result of the match wasn't a priority, as being challenged by the strongest opponent, they just wanted to throw everything at him. Ippo believes that everything about Miguel, Wally, and Ricardo was spectacular. Ippo tells Kamogawa that when he thinks back on his memories of his time in Mexico, he gets all itchy. Kamogawa suggests for him to do mitt practice with him, as it has been awhile. After doing mitt practice with Ippo, Kamogawa, looking at his throbbing left hand, realises that Miguel and Wally gave it everything they had, however, he wonders about himself.

While running back home, Ippo comes across Kumi, Wanpo, Itagaki, Taihei, and Kintarō, who were all waiting for his return. Ippo feels like he is finally back in Japan now.