Ep. 31: Joe faces intense pressure as a top contender while Danpei welcomes new trainees to the completed Tange Gym.
Aired on May 11, 1981

With his status as the OPBF Champion and a hopeful for the world title, Joe finds himself the target of numerous opponents eager to challenge him. Simultaneously, the construction of the new Tange Gym reaches completion. Following this milestone, Danpei agrees to take on several aspiring boxers as apprentices, expanding the gym's roster. The narrative highlights the growing attention surrounding Joe's career advancements alongside the structural and personnel developments at the training facility, marking a period of significant transition and increased competition for the protagonist.
Episodes
- Ep. 27 · Joe Meets Former Boxer Wolf Kanagushi at Pachinko Parlor
- Ep. 28 · Joe travels to Hawaii for his first OPBF title defense against Jose
- Ep. 29 · Joe anticipates a swift two round knockout against Jose while defending his title.
- Ep. 30 · Joe Seeks Answers From Jose During a Visit to His Family Ranch
- Ep. 31 · Joe faces intense pressure as a top contender while Danpei welcomes new trainees to the completed Tange Gym.
- Ep. 32 · WBC Champion Jose faces WBA Champion Harold Gomez in unification bout while Joe fights Leon Smiley.
- Ep. 33 · Leon's aggressive tactics force Joe into a defensive stance during their intense match.
- Ep. 34 · The WBC and WBA World Champions face off in Las Vegas for the Bantamweight title
- Ep. 35 · Yoko Proposes Joe's Final Bout Before Jose Title Match