Ippo is eager to return to the ring., but Chief Kamogawa"s training emphasizes solely on defense. Facing his tough opponent from Thailand, Ippo develops his own fighting style that combines both offense and defense. The bell rings, determined to win, his opponent absorbs Ippo"s hard punches and launches fierce blows. When Chief Kamogawa advises Ippo to go slowly at the end of round 1, Ippo replies, "I will K.O. him in the next round." Can Ippo live up to his word that seems totally out of character?!