Makunouchi Ippo, a high school student, has been plagued by bullies throughout his life. His lack of confidence and passion for change have held him back, but everything changes when he is saved by Takamura Mamoru, a skilled boxer. Introduced to the Kamogawa boxing gym, Ippo is struck by the atmosphere and the opportunity to learn from Takamura. Initially hesitant, Ippo is motivated by the challenge of surpassing his classmate, who has been placed on a punching bag. With a newfound desire to improve himself and support his hardworking mother, Ippo trains tirelessly to achieve the impossible task set by Takamura, marking the beginning of his journey to the top of the boxing world.