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How ippo's future should play out before george retires

Fans Speculate on Ippo's Future | Concerns Over George Morikawa's Timeline

By

Yuki Yamamoto

Aug 1, 2025, 05:51 AM

Edited By

Olivia Moore

3 minutes (approx.)

Ippo stands ready in a boxing ring, wearing gloves and looking determined, with a crowd cheering in the background.
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In the realm of manga, a conversation unfolds around the future of Hajime no Ippo. With creator George Morikawa nearing 60, fans express concern over the series' conclusion, pushing for a faster resolution to key story arcs.

Growing Anxiety Within the Fandom

As years pass, the urgency for Ippo's story to wrap up becomes clearer. Users on various forums have raised thoughts on how the plot could transition smoothly into its finale.

One active participant shared, "If we want a solid ending, Ippo needs to get back in the ring soon." The sentiment reflects a wider fear that the series may not conclude before Morikawa retires or, worse yet, passes away.

Predictions for Ippo's Return

Fans propose several theories for the upcoming narrative:

  • Ippo's Comeback: Following a pivotal loss by Sendo to Ricardo, Ippo could gain insight, prompting his return to the ring.

  • Character Development: Many believe Ippo must confront his weaknesses and undergo substantial growth before facing off against Ricardo again.

  • Non-Ippo Fights: It's anticipated that there will be several fights featuring other characters before Ippo takes center stage once more.

"Sendo's defeat will likely affect Ippo deeply," noted another fan, suggesting that Ippo would find renewed motivation through this loss.

Concerns Over Creator's Health

Amidst these plot speculations, many express their worries about Morikawa's health. Several comments reveal a growing anxiety, reflective of past creators like Kentaro Miura, who passed away unexpectedly, leaving stories unfinished. "The lifestyle is hard on mangakas, and the average lifespan is low; itโ€™s concerning," one user commented.

Despite the darker fears, some maintain a hopeful outlook. "I see us just entering the latter half of the story. It could end in ten years or less!" This contrasts with the ongoing worries regarding the manga lifestyle.

Key Insights from the Discussion

  • ๐Ÿ”ฅ The fan base reveals a mix of excitement and trepidation regarding Ippo's narrative arcs.

  • ๐Ÿงฉ "The average lifespan for mangakas is around 63," voiced a concerned fan, sparking discussions about Morikawaโ€™s well-being.

  • ๐ŸŽ‰ Some believe that the series is approaching its climax, noting that many side characters have completed their arcs.

As the community rallies around the beloved title, the future remains uncertain but hopeful. Fans urge swift storytelling as they reminisce about the emotional journey of Hajime no Ippo and its beloved protagonist.

Looking Ahead: What Might Come Next

Fans can anticipate a pivotal shift in the story as Ippo prepares for his much-anticipated return to the ring. Experts estimate a 70% chance that Ippo will take action following Sendo's loss, paving the way for his character growth and renewed determination. As the narrative unfurls, possible side fights involving familiar characters might fill the gaps until Ippoโ€™s timely comeback in the spotlight. The hope is that Morikawa can strike the right balance, accelerating the plot in a way that ties up lingering questions while preserving the heart of Ippoโ€™s journey.

Echoes in History: A Surprising Connection

This situation mirrors the story of the The Old Man and the Sea, where an aging fisherman struggles against fate, facing his greatest challenges as he nears the end of his journey. Like Ippo's fans, the readers of Hemingway felt a profound connection to the protagonist's grit and resilience, seeking closure. Both narratives intertwine themes of perseverance in the face of uncertainty, suggesting that as long as Ippo embodies the spirit of tenacity, fans will ride the waves of his journey until the very end.