Ep. 4: Aoki seeks Tomiko's comfort after Imae focuses on his boxing title defense
Aired on October 27, 2013

Following a frustrating confrontation with Imae, Aoki turns to his girlfriend Tomiko for emotional support. In contrast, Imae dedicates himself entirely to his boxing career and his upcoming title defense, rejecting his former girlfriend Sachiko’s efforts to restart their romantic relationship. The narrative explores whether Tomiko’s encouragement will help Aoki achieve success or if Imae’s unwavering concentration will allow him to retain his championship belt. This episode highlights the diverging paths of the two characters as they navigate personal relationships and professional ambitions within the boxing world.
Episodes
- Ep. 1 · Ippo Reflects on Father and Title Defenses After Beating Sendou
- Ep. 2 · Ippo fights for his title against Shimabukuro as the Dempsey Roll faces destruction
- Ep. 3 · Ippo's Victory and Aoki's Title Match Preparation
- Ep. 4 · Aoki seeks Tomiko's comfort after Imae focuses on his boxing title defense
- Ep. 5 · Imae defeats Aoki with research, shocking the crowd with an unexpected move.
- Ep. 6 · Imae confronts Aoki's new technique while fighting to keep his title
- Ep. 7 · Sendou Takeshi Returns as Sawamura Ryuuhei Critiques the Dempsey Roll
- Ep. 8 · Ippo faces Sawamura Ryuuhei and must evolve his Dempsey Roll to survive