Netflix Just Made Watching Hajime no Ippo a Total Game Changer for Anime Fans!

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Prepare to slip on your boxing gloves and adjust your mouthguard, as Netflix has introduced the two sequel anime TV series of “Hajime no Ippo.” This popular boxing anime is derived from the cherished and enduring manga by George Morikawa – a work that boasts 37 more chapters than the famously extensive “One Piece.” The original series, titled “Hajime no Ippo: The Fighting,” debuted in 2000 and spanned 76 episodes before concluding in 2002 (the show ranks as IMDb’s 159th best TV series of all time).

Watching the entire Hajime no Ippo series can be quite fragmented for fans due to the presence of not only the original series but also two sequel series and three OVAs. Unfortunately, none of the streaming platforms have managed to gather them all in one place yet. However, it seems that Netflix might take on this challenge, as they’ve recently added the two sequels to their collection, hinting at a possible addition of more content from the franchise.

Hajime no Ippo: New Challenger and Rising Are Streaming on Netflix

According to Anime News Network, Netflix has added the initial sequels, “Hajime no Ippo: New Challenger” and “Rising,” to its streaming collection. However, you won’t find these titles listed under their full names on Netflix. Instead, they are categorized as new seasons within the original series.

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After the original series concluded, a sequel titled “New Challenger” debuted in 2009. This spin-off series focused on Maknouchi Ippo as he embarked on his boxing journey following his title win. With the championship belt now around his waist, Maknonouchi is determined to defeat his longstanding rival, Ichiro Miyata. In parallel, the acclaimed middleweight fighter Takamura prepares to challenge the current world champion, Brian Hawk. The season spanned 26 episodes.

Four years after its initial release, Hajime no Ippo: Rising made its debut in 2013. Lasting for 25 episodes, this second sequel showcased Maknouchi Ippo defending his Japanese Featherweight title against a diverse group of contenders. Meanwhile, Takamura continued to excel in his career, striving for a second WBC title. Additionally, Aoki joined the fray, competing for the lightweight championship belt.

Hajime no Ippo Is the Most Realistic Fighting Anime Around

The animated version of “Hajime no Ippo” stands out among the best sports anime ever made, thanks to its captivating and amusing cast of characters. Makinochi represents a relatable underdog, Takemura portrays a complex yet confident leader, while every opponent of Ippo is given depth and complexity, making them feel real. Besides the compelling narrative and emotional storytelling, “Hajime no Ippo” keeps viewers hooked due to its authenticity.

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In my opinion, diving headfirst into the world of Hajime no Ippo isn’t just a casual pastime; it’s a hidden gem that offers valuable insights into the art of boxing. The moves and strategies depicted in this series, though they may sometimes seem exaggerated in animation, are all authentic boxing techniques and strategies.

Ippo starts his journey mastering the fundamental jab, cross, and hook, eventually refining his unique Dempsey Roll – a technique inspired by the real-life boxer, Jack Dempsey. The authenticity of these moves is a testament to George Morikawa, who not only creates this captivating story but also owns and manages a boxing gym in Japan.

Amazingly, the creator of Hajime no Ippo runs the JB Sports Gym in Tokyo, a place that even boasts a statue of Takamura on its rooftop and bears a striking resemblance to Kamogawa Boxing Gym, where Ippo trains in the show.

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2025-01-20 20:40