Ep. 56: Ippo doubts his hits but regains confidence to counter Date's head movement technique in the third round.

During the break, Ippo worries about lacking his usual impact against Date, but his coach restores his confidence. The third round begins similarly to the second, with exchanges where Date initially gains the upper hand. However, Ippo counters with a Liver Blow that connects effectively. Despite this, Ippo feels he is still touching Date without causing damage. He realizes Date Eiji is using a technique to dissipate blow power by swinging his head in the direction of the impact. This defensive maneuver allows Date to neutralize Ippo's attacks, leaving the boxer confused about why his strikes are not landing with their usual force. The match continues with Ippo struggling to break through this specific defensive strategy while trying to maintain his offensive rhythm against his opponent's calculated movements.
Episodes
- Ep. 52 · Date Ippo's journey to the featherweight title match against Makunouchi Ippo
- Ep. 53 · Background episode focusing on Date Eiji's personal development and self-discovery journey
- Ep. 54 · Takamura faces Tamaki in title defense despite sauna-induced weakness
- Ep. 55 · Ippo trains before his Japan Featherweight Title Match while his coach falls ill.
- Ep. 56 · Ippo doubts his hits but regains confidence to counter Date's head movement technique in the third round.
- Ep. 57 · Ippo Date faces a critical moment in his fight against the champion Takamura Mamoru.
- Ep. 58 · Ippo receives applause after victory while Sendo rages and seeks revenge on Makunouchi with Vorg.
- Ep. 59 · Sendou Takeshi and Volg Zangief begin their determined match
- Ep. 60 · Sendou secures victory against Volg in a decisive match outcome.