Original subtitles

Fight, fight!

It's over... You're finished.

Seven! Eight! Nine! Ten!

Well done, Rikiishi.

Rikiishi, congratulations.

You've finally done it.

You surprised me, Rikiishi.

l wasn't expecting that last uppercut.

But it was to be expected of you. Well done.

Yabuki's punch on the right temple during the 6th round was very severe.

This was followed by a violent impact to the head, which caused the cerebral hemorrhage that killed him.

In remembrance of the death of boxer, Toru Rikiishi,

we will ring the bell 10 times.

I want to ask everybody to please stand.

Is something the matter, grandfather?

No, it's just that I thought Yabuki might be here.

He isn't here, I'm sure of it.

Ashita no Joe 2

It's time... to do roadwork.

Nishi, what are you doing,

tearing down the building this early?

Old man, come down here for a sec...

How is it goin', Nishi, Old Man?

Joe!

It's been almost a year, hasn't it?

Joe!

Joe!

Out of the way... Something big's happening!

Better hurry up, big brother Joe's back!

Big brother Joe... is back!

Big brother Joe...!

Brother Joe...!

A treat for you, icy mineral water.

Your favorite drink.

Just drink your heart out, Rikiishi.

You don't have to worry about weight any more.

That's life, Rikiishi.

I tell you, l am ready again.

Bye now, Rikiishi.

Are you going to fight again?

Maybe.

Where have you been this past year?

l forgot all that's in the past.

All l want is to be back in the ring again.

Stop!

Good shot, keep this up!

Joe, good strike!

Tange Gym's owner is very happy,

Yabuki hasn't let him down yet... - Look, Nishi's like an elephant!

Big brother Joe... come on...!

The "Messenger from Hell", Yabuki Joe. Victories accompany the come-back of Joe the Brawler.

They say that for a boxer, a blow to the face...

is like a window to Heaven.

But a blow to the stomach opens the gates to Hell.

Since Yabuki's return, he has won all his matches...

with blows to the stomach, resulting in K.O's.

He deals great punches,

similar to the ones that killed Rikiishi a year ago.

This kind of boxing will make future opponents tremble.

Yoko, what brings you here?

Grandfather, l'm here for you.

l finally found a successor for the gym.

It's about time to complete the process.

Since Rikiishi's gone, l feel tired too.

Joe came out and got 5 wins in a roll.

Yabuki's really good, it seems he's back on track.

Truly? Do you really think so?

What do you mean by that, Yoko?

He won in a great way.

But I feel something is different about him.

Grandpa... Please let me be in charge of Shiraki Gym.

Old Man, l think there's something wrong.

What's wrong?

His strategic body attacks are no problem.

But Joe never hits the head of his opponent.

You are right.

Old Man, what's wrong?

It can't possibly be.

What, what did you say...

l did not say anything...

You did say something, why don't you say it out loud?

l said I have nothing to say!

Wait, Rikiishi's death...

was caused by the strikes on his temple.

Just shut up, don't be stupid!

That's a coincidence, you're just speculating.

Yes, sir!

So far so good. Everything is going well.

At last, the show is on tonight.

The game everyone is looking forward to.

The Japanese Light Weight Championship, Tiger vs. Joe.

Who will win the match?

Yabuki still doesn't have a title, and everyone is wondering...

how he's going to act in the face of the champion.

Get...ready...now! Yabuki, Yabuki, Yabuki, Yabuki!

Old Man, see you later.

I'll win my first title tonight.

It will be really easy to win this match.

Joe has started his attack now!

Since the first round, they've been equal.

He has forced Tiger to the ropes.

Flawless boxing, leaving no room for his opponent!

The strategy Joe uses tonight is unique!

He only seems to hit his opponents body.

This strategy will be found fault sooner or later.

It does not seem right.

If Joe keeps like this he'll get exhausted soon.

Joe, strike his temples, don't let him fight back!

As I thought, there's no mistake.

One, two, three, four...

Why... I saw Rikiishi's face.

How can it be... Shit.

This is ridiculous.

Joe, stop, the match is over!

What did you say?

It's over now, Joe.

You've lost everything.

Joe finally lost a match.

The nick name of Forever Winner is no more.

What is this? I dared not hit his temples?

Yeah, everyone saw your fear during the match.

That's nonsense, I wasn't afraid at all!

I couldn't believe it at first, but it's true!

Last year, you kept striking Rikiishi's head and killed him.

You can't get over it.

You are afraid to hit the face of your opponent.

Shit...

What?

Let me tell you, I forgot all about Rikiishi!

I forgot about Rikiishi.

Yabuki, what are you doing?

I'm all right.

You are all right, that's good.

Rikiishi, so long.

You're a strange one.

You've come all the way from Japan just for some boxing business.

Is it common in Japan, to have women in the pro-boxing business?

I don't know.

OK... Back to the proposal you were mentioning.

Miss Yoko, does Japan even have any good boxers?

Yes, Mr. Robert.

But at the moment he is struggling with his past.

But he's a born boxer.

A boxer who'll burn up his life in the ring.

Boxing is his life.

Before we start today's 10 round match,

I'd like to introduce a renowned bantamweight fighter to you.

He's invited by the Shiraki Boxing Gym, and comes from Venezuela.

6th On the world's WBC bantamweight list... Carlos Rivera!

Carlos has gained 34 victories and only 5 defeats.

He has the stature of a world champion, but he hasn't had the chance to prove it.

Living up to his reputation, here's Carlos Rivera! - Thank you...

Thank you...

Didn't expect Shiraki to invite him here.

Carlos Rivera deserves his nickname: Champion without a belt.

It is said that the World Champion has repeatedly refused the challenges proposed by Rivera.

Really?

He's showing off again.

Maybe so, but he's good at it.

Carlos, thank you for encouraging Nango and Yabuki, who you're about to meet.

OK.

Hey, good luck. I wish you a good fight.

Yabuki, what are you doing?

What's wrong with you? Hit him back!

You are finished.

Here it comes!

Great, he managed a cross-counter!

Joe!

Let's go, Carlos.

Where are you going?

Downstairs, to work it out.

Take this.

You were in here for an hour at least.

I could do it the whole night.

Say, Old Man...

Old Man, didn't you want to tell me something?

Not now, I'm going to sleep.

No kidding, who is my next opponent?

Hey, Old Man!

What? Earthquake?

Stop pretending to sleep. Answer me!

Tell me. You went to the boxing federation, right?

Actually, I wasn't going to mention it.

But since you asked, I'll tell you.

There won't be any new opponents.

No club leader will want you to face their fighters.

A boxer that can't hit on the temple,

and your mind is always somewhere else.

Getting hit and vomiting, that doesn't attract the crowds.

All right, dismiss! Let Carlos practice.

Please, no more than 2 rounds.

Okay.

There! Light steps, just like that.

Hey, it's Yabuki, Yabuki Joe is here.

It's really him... What is he doing here?

Stop, Carlos!

Miss Yoko, are you here?

Here I am, Mr. Robert.

Miss Yoko, an unwanted person is in the training room

Please ask him to leave. He mustn't distract Carlos.

You're treating me like an intruder?

You probably know that I'm toast in the ring.

I'm a little broke.

So, I came here to ask you for a job.

How much would you pay me to be Carlos' sparring partner?

I'm not greedy.

Just give me enough for a few meals and to play pachinko.

Please accept my offer.

I want to cross gloves with him.

No, Yabuki.

Carlos has a strict training schedule.

l choose all his sparring partners.

You'd better leave.

Mr. Robert?

What if I humbly request you to reconsider?

They will use 16oz gloves.

And practice never hurt anyone.

What do you say, Mr. Robert?

OK. Since you asked, I'll agree.

Great!

I don't care about the weight, 10oz would be fine too.

Here, thanks for helping.

Let's dance!

You have a first class condition.

No wonder you're 6th on the world's WBC list.

Here it comes.

Well, how do you like my cross?

Robert, stop the music!

Joe, you idiot!

Will you never learn?

Carlos, that's all for today.

Go take your shower.

No, Robert, this isn't over. - What?

Look at him... still in a fighting pose.

Robert, he struck once, it was beautiful.

l won't just let it end.

Joe...!

I remember, that's right, that must be it.

A long time ago I was always full of energy.

A real man.

A real boxer, at that time...

Run, hurry, run as fast as you can!

Run faster... faster!

Everybody run, dash...

Although l lost once, Mr. Bigshot from Venezuela, my will is still burning!

Stop it, Carlos!

Joe...!

Get away... don't...!

That's enough, Joe...!

Don't get in the way! Forget it, stop!

Say, Joe..

You couldn't stop hitting Carlos' face.

You're warming up and suddenly you attack like crazy.

Yeah...

l think I'll sleep well tonight.

Really? That's good, that's really good, Joe.

Miss Yoko. Who is training with Joe Yabuki next time?

I don't know. Carlos, why do you ask?

No reason.

I see.

Good morning, Miss Yoko.

Good morning, Carlos.

Good morning, Robert.

News from Mexico.

The world championship will be in 4 weeks.

The location will be in Las Vegas.

Really?

Congratulations, you'll officially be the King of Boxing.

We are leaving Japan by Christmas.

Thank you.

l received a gift! Me too!

From who?

I've got a big present too!

From who?

From Santa Claus.

Merry Christmas...

This is for you.

Don't fight, everyone gets one.

Don't fight, will you?

Don't push...!

Carlos...

Merry Christmas... - Thanks.

How are you?

I'm sorry about last time.

What are you doing here? You look so happy.

You're a nice guy.

Thank you.

Well, Carlos.

You and I, we didn't get an official match.

Why don't we fight right here and now?

It's snowing.

Come on, Joe. Come on!

Master of the South-America, here I come.

You bastard!

You jerk.

Look...

Carlos...

Carlos, I was looking for you. What were you doing?

Did you forget we are leaving tomorrow?

Robert, you are my friend.

And sometimes you're just like a brother.

More than that, like a father to me.

Help me, Robert. Arrange a fight with Yabuki Joe before I leave Japan.

My honor is at stake.

Help me arrange it.

Of course, Carlos, but... what about the world championship?

All right. Why don't we postpone it?

We'll get a huge fine.

If you have no objections Shiraki Gym will take care of the fine.

It's a Christmas present for Yabuki and Carlos from me.

If we're all in agreement then I'll start the promotion for this fight.

Merry Christmas.

Joe, are you okay?

I'm okay, really. I'll not give up this opportunity.

Carlos wants to fight me and postpone the world championship.

It means so much to him.

l can not let him down.

He did it!

One! Two!

Carlos, stand up... Please!

Carlos...

Five! Six! Seven! Eight! Nine! - Carlos!

Come on, Joe!

Here I come!

Carlos, are you all right?

Joe, get up!

l just had a dream.

I dreamed that I'd beaten Carlos.

Get up... and fight! One! Two! Three! Four! Five! Six! Seven!

Come on, Joe!

Eight!

Don't you dare fall!

Nine!

Fight!

Joe.. - Carlos...

Nishi... He's started talking to himself.

Please keep me awake, Old Man, the game is not over yet.

Get up, Joe! A bit longer and Carlos will fall!

Knock him down!

Go knock him down!

Fight, fight!

The last round...

Finally, the last round!

Yabuki, you've come this far, don't lose it!

Carlos, go for it... All your fans are behind you!

Carlos, congratulations. It's really a splendid match.

Carlos! Carlos! Carlos! Carlos!

Stop, stop! Separate!

Hey, is that Yabuki Joe?

Yabuki? The one who fought Carlos last month...

That guy. Yes...

l went to the game, Joe was great.

A man from Tange Gym wants to see you.

Mr. Tange is finally here.

Old Man is busy today. He sent me instead.

Yabuki...

About the game with Carlos... half of the reward is due.

I'm here to collect my money.

Joe, want some coffee?

See you later.

Thank you so much.

Miss, we just received a wire.

So soon.

l thought the match had just started.

True, it started one minute and 33 seconds ago.

Carlos Rivera has...

Carlos has already knocked down his opponent?

No, Champion Jose Mendoza has knocked him down.

A K.O.?

Carlos Rivera has been knocked down? It can't be!

With his skills.. knocked down in one minute and 33 seconds...

Impossible!

Something must be wrong!

Listen, his manager Robert held a press conference.

Carlos apparently had taken more damage during the Tokyo match than we suspected.

It seems this match worsened that.

His head has been seriously injured.

He acts punch-drunk, and has difficulty going up stairs.

Mr. Robert, after Carlos recovers, will he come out again?

Your reaction, please! We would like to hear!

Carlos can't never fight again! Yabuki Joe made sure of that!

I'm here to announce that Carlos' boxing career is over.

Goodbye, my Carlos Rivera.

This time...

This time?

This time, it's Carlos' turn.

So long...

Yabuki?

Where have you been?

Nothing... playing pachinko... that's all. And you, Noriko?

l'm going to the Gym to cheer them up.

Old Man and the others went out, no one is there.

Really?

Why do you have an umbrella? It's dry.

The rain has stopped. I'm so foolish.

Say, do you want to take a walk in the park?

Y-yes!

I'm so happy!

Because this is the first time you asked me on a date of sorts.

You're always alone, don't you feel lonely?

People at your age...

Everyone tries their best to have fun and enjoy life.

Yabuki, you lock yourself in the gym day after day.

Hitting the sand bag, jumping ropes, lifting weights or boxing. Don't you feel tired?

You have to relax sometimes. Take a breather.

The ring is not the whole world.

All you can think about is boxing, and you always get hurt.

A healthy young man like you needs a life.

You put yourself on a strict diet to keep the ideal weight.

ls it worth it?

Yabuki... Is this the life you want?

I'm not sure about the direction of my life.

But one thing I know for sure: I like boxing. Once I'm in the ring I'm full of hope and energy.

I feel alive, Noriko.

l understand, but have you never thought about...

My life is different from most people's...

I spent most of my time in the ring.

But I have my own ambition.

I use my passion to make my dream come true.

l won't be like the rest, just wasting their lives.

My passion is living in my blood, burning forever.

Only ashes will be left behind after burning.

Everything will become ashes after burning...

Just like Rikiishi.

Rikiishi and Carlos are just like me.

His thoughts are so hard to follow.

Noriko...

That's true... there's only ashes after burning.

Just a pile of pale ashes.

You go to hell, Yabuki!

Hit me. Why don't you strike? Hit me back!

Are you done now?

Go to hell!

First, to Yabuki and the Tange chairman.

Congratulations for winning the championship title.

Joe won from his opponent in just 6 rounds.

Overcoming a powerful attack and biding your time. Winning with honor, it's not easy at all.

Being a sponsor of this match,

makes our TV station very proud!

The next goal for Yabuki is the world championship.

We are here to wish him success.

Cheers!

Cheers...!

Good evening, Yabuki.

I remember the first time l met Joe, it's a funny story.

Say Yoko, who is that man?

Who?

The one standing against the wall. He's been there for a while.

I'm not sure, he looks so familiar.

l feel the same, I've seen him before.

It's Jose! Jose Mendoza.

Look... That's the World Champion, Jose Mendoza!

Yes, it's him, Jose Mendoza!

There is no mistake! It's Carlos Rivera's opponent! World Champion, Jose Mendoza!

It's strange though. Why is he here?

Wait, please, Mr. Jose.

I'm the trainer of the champion. My name is Danpei Tange.

He didn't come here for you, Old Man.

He's here for the champion.

Of course, l know that. So I'll...

Would you excuse us, Old Man?

All right.

How can I help you? Why don't you just say it?

Good luck.

What is going on...?

Mr. World Champion, a few questions please. Hey, don't go!

That's enough for today.

Joe, on television they said that...

Joe, what's that?

You've got a hand print on your arms.

So powerful... just one touch, and leaving a mark so clearly...

What if he hits you? It would hurt very much.

Jose is quite unique. He is not just a boxer.

Whoever fights against him doesn't just walk away...

I knew it was strange he came to wish you success,

Old Man... Do you still think I'm not good enough?

That's right.

Give me some time and no one can stand up against me.

I'll leave him some marks to remember me by!

I'll beat him up thoroughly! Just wait and see!

I'm going to sleep now, Old Man, good night.

Where's the Champion? - In the practice room, training.

Hey Champion, Mr. Jose.

They say you left Hawaii and met the Japanese champion, Yabuki Joe.

Do you think he'll be a threat to you?

It's time for me to do my roadwork.

Mr. Driver, excuse me.

Is Jose Mendoza in Hawaii?

Yes, he's been here a while.

Where is he now?

I'm not sure. He frequents several training centers.

Don't take me to the hotel. Take me to him.

Joe, wait for me, I'll go with you.

Old Man, suit yourself.

He is not here.

Why are you holding me up so high? Let me down.

Carlos, it's really Carlos.

I miss him so much.

It's strange, why is Carlos on the poster?

Big guy, tell me what does the poster say?

Strange, how come Carlos' picture is on Jose's poster?

It would be great to see him on the canvas again.

Jose is a great champion.

It says that even Carlos Rivera couldn't beat him.

All the opponents who challenged his championship are listed there.

I see.

Leave. Tourists are not welcome here... Leave.

Don't you dare touch me!

You jerk!

Tell me, where is he now?!

He is with his family.

To Maui island, at once.

It's about to start.

Run, hurry... - Mom, it's my turn.

If you want to play, go tell your daddy.

Watch out.

Hello, Mr. Champion.

Hello, Mr. Yabuki.

Here you are, Mr. Yabuki, you lost your hat.

Please wait, I want to talk with you.

Why did you put Carlos' picture on your poster?

l understand the purpose of the poster.

You defeated him, but it doesn't give you the right to use his photo to show off!

Daddy, I'm thirsty... - Go ask your Mom.

All right.

Look, it's my daddy's poster.

Jessy, do you know who the other man is?

Yes. It's Carlos Rivera.

That's right, it's Carlos. A great opponent of Daddy's.

Do you mind if I interrupt?

Oh, Miss! Not at all!

Yabuki, Mr. Tange.

I have something very important to tell you both.

I just signed a contract with Jose Mendoza.

What kind of contract?

It's a sole sponsorship contract for Jose Mendoza to fight in Japan.

It's worth 150.000 USD. Including the promotion of his match in Japan.

And the sole broadcast rights in Japan.

So, to summarize, without my approval TV stations can't broadcast the match.

And he will only do one match.

This will generate a huge public interest.

The location hasn't been decided yet.

But it'll take place within one year.

My choice for his opponent is you, Joe.

The slogan will be "Yabuki Joe for Champion".

Any objections?

None from me.

It's hot in here, let's go for a walk.

OK, let's go.

I'd rather stay here and have some drinks.

Do this... this way... and then like this, right?

Yabuki, do you really know how to drive?

Get in the car, and you'll find out soon.

I didn't expect your driving to be like this.

I took one lesson and I'm already this good.

What?

Nothing.

His foot steps...

Here at Waikiki Beach Park we have an unique match today! World Champion Jose Mendoza versus the Hawaiian champion.

You can only watch it on this channel.

Remember, no tricks, no lower body attacks.

You just can't miss any opportunities, Joe.

So far his win ratio is 90%.

Not just in Hawaii, he has also won the US Cup.

I'll watch him closely.

What's the big deal anyway?

Beat him...!

Jose, wait...!

Nine, Ten!

It's raining... Let's go...

Joe, let's go now, we'll get wet.

It's finished, there's nothing to watch.

Champion, get inside and go change.

You go ahead, I'll be there soon.

Joe, I'm leaving, don't catch a cold.

You were great in this match, Mr.

It is a pity we have never fought each other before.

We will at the official match.

I'll go and practice. See you in Japan then.

See you later.

See you again.

See you again?

See you again...

See you again!

See you again!

Here I come!

Nice...

Yabuki's attack is very powerful and nonstop, like pouring rain.

His Malaysian opponent, called King of the Jungle, is famous for his wild behavior,

but he can't keep up with Yabuki.

Good hit, keep it going!

Wait a moment. - You can't go in there.

Go on, leave!

Yabuki has taken over the fight and he seems unstoppable.

Why aren't you moving? Come on, get up!

Where's the King of the Jungle now?

What are you doing there?

Get up...!

This is bad.

Yabuki's down.

The Malaysian knocked him down hard.

Five! Six!

Your attack didn't succeed.

Be prepared for my deadly strike.

Take this.

Stay still, you!

Is that all you've got?

Don't you run away.

Down! One! Two! Three!

Yabuki's getting up again. But he seems very exhausted.

Joe...!

He has to be careful. Look out!

You know, don't act so cocky.

You buster.

Great, Joe...!

K.O. in the 4th round, after 2 minutes 45 seconds.

For Yabuki the world championship will be next!

Yabuki!

You'll have to work hard. Do your best!

It can't be...

Yabuki, comments please! How do you feel?

No need for comments, just watch my expression.

That's true.

Carlos...

Carlos...

Carlos Rivera!

What?

Bravo, you are very, very strong man.

It's really him, that's Carlos.

This championship plaque is awarded to you this day in my function as head of the Japanese boxing commission.

Congratulations.

Joe, wait, the press conference.

Carlos is waiting for me. I have to go now.

Thank you for coming.

I'll carry it...

I told you not to worry.

Joe, it's him. It's really Carlos Rivera.

Although he wouldn't tell his name.

But we have checked it out.

He was not very responsive.

I didn't expect he'd become like this.

You're so silly, no need to check it out.

l can tell with one look that it's him.

No matter what he wears, l will always recognize Carlos.

Joe, Yabuki Joe.

Carlos. How are you?

You are very very strong man.

And me more very very strong man, not?

Joe, why don't we have a fight and see who wins?

No, take it easy.

Fight-on, fight-on... This is going to be so fun.

What is going on here?

His strikes used to be as fast as thunder.

There's no strength left.

He used to have a spark in his eyes, but now...

Come, take my left straight, and my right hook.

Fight-on, fight-on, Joe!

Fight-on, fight-on, Yabuki.

I see, l understand now, Carlos.

Carlos.

All right, please sit down, Carlos.

How did you get so muddy?

Did you fall in a pond?

Please, Nishi, get a new shirt from my bag.

You need to change, you're all wet.

Joe.

Carlos, how about this shirt?

Oh, very nice.

How does it look, Joe?

Looking good, perfect.

You still care so much about your look.

Hey, get out! Women are not welcome here!

I just want to let you know that starting tomorrow Shiraki Gym will take care of Carlos.

What in the world are you talking about?

Carlos is looking fine to me.

Shiraki Gym takes full responsibility in this matter.

Don't tell me what responsibility is!

Answer me...

Joe...

What's the matter... Carlos...

The buttons are not right like that.

Let me help you.

Don't worry, Carlos, I'll have it fixed in a minute.

Hold your head high, please.

Nishi, will you please help out Carlos?

World lightweight championship

Jose Mendoza v.s. Yabuki Joe

Location: Nippon Budokan arena.

Flight 701 from Hawaii has landed.

Doctor Kiniski.

Following is a report about boxer's dementia.

This resulted from years of research.

Symptoms can be tremors and a lack of coordination.

The patients themselves are not aware of it.

They usually fall due to an unsteady gait.

Patients with boxer's dementia are also called punch-drunk.

Quitting timely can delay the onset.

But once it progresses into dementia, it can cause long term damage.

First it is forgetfulness, then follows the loss of memory.

More seriously is a declining mental ability.

For example...

Not being able to use buttons.

Doctor, that's not a disease, is it?

It's an indicator.

The video you sent from Hawaii,

has been carefully analyzed.

Our conclusion is the following.

Yabuki Joe shows symptoms of being punch-drunk.

Since he falls quite often.

It is as I feared.

No matter what, l want to help him.

Senpai, telephone.

Who is it?

Someone from Shiraki, she is asking for you.

Hang up.

This is the 3rd time today.

Don't disturb me while I'm practicing.

So, he went out to do roadwork.

Joe will be Joe.

He is serious to reach his goal.

Yabuki, let me take a picture.

Just keep going.

Run faster!

Joe, go for it... go... go... go...!

Joe. - Yabuki.

It's almost time for your wedding.

Yes, the wedding takes place two days before the W.C.

We have discussed it, and the honeymoon will be postponed.

I'm your second and I won't leave you on your own.

You really don't have to do that, you know.

What are you saying, Joe?

I'm your second, we are in this together.

As long as you work hard for it.

The honeymoon is not an issue, don't worry.

Then, thanks so much, Nishi.

Joe, do your best!

Oh! Do you want me to speak on your wedding?

Thank you.

Nishi, it's late, I have to go.

Bye, Noriko.

Sorry to have kept you waiting.

Never mind, let's go, hurry!

Hey, look.

That woman is here again.

And it's pouring rain.

She calls 3 times a day and is waiting at the bridge every night.

Why don't you go and talk to her?

It's simple, the match is coming soon. I don't have time for her.

It won't take that long to have a talk.

Remember, you're my second. Don't worry so much, will you?

What do you mean by that?

I'm your trainer, and I can get rid of you anytime.

Sister, take this warmer. It'll feel good.

Hold it, that way you won't freeze.

Thank you.

So you're hiding here.

You are so cold.

You refused to talk to her, so she send a letter.

She put both our names on it, so I opened it.

I know you won't like it, but still.

What's in here will shock you.

Let me tell you straight up, and trust me on this.

These are the facts.

We didn't know about this, we were misled.

This is an X-ray taken by Dr. Kiniski to treat Carlos.

What you see is Carlos' skull.

See the fractures at his temples?

Regular boxing can't cause such complex fractures.

You blame yourself for Carlos' situation.

But only a Corkscrew-punch has this kind of power.

What is a Corkscrew-punch? It's a very special type of punch.

Turning your arm while at the same time striking.

The force of the blow is reinforced that way.

l know you would find out sooner or later.

We studied Carlos' match repeatedly.

We found your strikes were nothing like that.

Mendoza was the one using Corkscrew-punches to hit Carlos.

That's good to know.

You should stop with doubting, and go for it.

Jose is the one responsible, not you. Do you hear what I'm saying?

Corkscrew-punch?

I'm not finished yet, Joe.

There's one thing I need to tell you in private, Yabuki.

Don't worry, it won't take up too much of your time.

I only need want... A few minutes will do.

Any time you're ready, just let me know.

Senpai, Miss Shiraki is looking for you.

Hang up.

D-Day. The Japan Boxing Arena is filling up with people.

Hey, the reporters will be here soon to interview you.

What are you gong to do?

Reporters will be coming soon.

Excuse me, l need some time alone.

You'll have your time, I'll represent you.

Nishi, let's leave him alone.

Yes...!

Good evening, Yabuki.

Sorry for ambushing you like this. But you're avoiding me.

Yabuki.

Yes?

Please do not enter the ring.

Miss, are you kidding me?

l mentioned it in the letter. It's very important.

What's on your mind? Just say it.

Yabuki, I'm sorry to say you suffer from boxer's dementia.

And it's quite serious too.

This diagnosis was made by Dr. Kiniski, a well known physician.

He's an authority within the MD Association.

So what?

"So what?"

I wonder if he already knew.

It's my body, and I know it well.

Since you know it so well you should retire at once.

Rikiishi's memorial day is coming, are you going to pray for him?

Are you going to be like Carlos? Do you want to be like that?

Please don't mention Carlos, will you?

Are you worried that if you don't fight the match, your Gym has to compensate the sponsors?

But you don't have to do this, I'll help with the money, trust me.

Please leave now, l don't want to talk to you.

It's not for the money that I'm doing this, you know.

Can't you understand the reason I want to fight?

Yabuki...

I appreciate your concern, but women are not allowed here.

Yabuki...

If you don't go, then I'll leave...

Please wait.

I beg you, retire from boxing.

Don't fight the match, please...

Please, l beg you.

I'm in love with you, Yabuki.

At first l wasn't aware of it, but I've had a crush on you for a long time.

For my sake, please don't enter the ring.

Don't risk your life in there.

l couldn't bear to see my love turned into a vegetable.

Joe, it's time for the match.

What are you doing, Joe?

Any boxer's goal is to win the world championship.

That's why I have to be in there.

Yabuki...

Thank you.

What is it, something happened?

No... Let's go.

Yabuki...

How's everybody? Welcome to the World Lightweight Championship, held in Japan.

The new World Champion will be decided here.

The big question is: who will be the strongest?

We may finally have our answer to Jose Mendoza, the King of Kings.

Yabuki Joe: tonight his endless energy will serve as Japan's weapon.

He used to be known as the "Messenger from Hell".

He has been in the news continuously since his debut.

And has for the last few years been providing his fans with some great matches.

The challenger tonight: Yabuki Joe.

His fighting will is like an unstoppable fire.

In the red corner the current World Champion,

weighing 118 pounds,

Jose Mendoza, Mexico.

In the blue corner, the world's 4th placed lightweight boxer,

weighing 117.5 pounds,

from Tange Gym, Yabuki Joe, Japan!

Listen, I'll say it one more time.

Be patient and strike fast.

Hold your power back, catch the right moment, and strike.

What are you doing? You're not listening.

Yabuki is trying to get a K.O with his powerful strikes.

Jose is still unaffected by these non stop attacks.

Yabuki seems to be giving it his all.

He does not seem to be holding back.

Go for it...! Strike it...!

Joe...!

The Champion finally strikes back and Yabuki is in danger.

Joe is getting the run around, his strikes don't land.

Joe!

Hey, are you in a hurry to die?

Do you have a death wish?

You know, he is not just somebody.

Focus on bringing him into your pace and keep your stamina.

Hey, are you listening or not?

Go, go, Yabuki!

Time's up.

Nishi, mouth piece. - Coming.

Joe!

Yabuki's unable to hit Champion Jose.

Joe, listen to me!

Will we see a knock out attempt?

Yabuki is going down.

No, he gets up again.

It's a Corkscrew-punch!

Get up...!

Trouble. Yabuki's in trouble.

Jose strikes again. Yabuki is taking damage.

Let him taste your full strength.

Knock him down.

Joe... Yabuki...

Bad. This is very bad.

You deliver your most powerful strikes and he shrugs them off.

One strike from him and he knocks you out.

Are you listening or not, Joe?

Old Man, don't worry, I know what I'm doing.

It's no use, I'll take my time.

Jose, be careful.

It's so stupid. He is still doing it.

Old Man, Jose isn't attacking at all.

Because he knows Joe's moves by now. It's impossible to hit him.

Impossible?

No wonder he's the King of Kings with this kind of ability.

It's impossible for a regular boxer.

An opponent spends his energy and he's just biding his time.

It's over.

It's okay, Joe.

This opponent was in another class entirely.

It's too bad that it had to happen this way.

Still, it was a worthy attempt.

Old Man, it's too soon!

Look, Joe is getting up!

Six! Seven!

Can you really continue, Yabuki?

Don't waste your strength, Joe! You can't win! He'll kill you!

Jose, finish, finish!

Joe! Yabuki!

Jose, why did you hold back? You could've won already.

Why aren't you using your Corkscrew-punches?

I don't need them to finish this match.

If I use Corkscrew-punches, I'll likely destroy him.

Is he really the same Yabuki Joe I met in Hawaii?

What a pity he's become like this.

Joe. Yabuki. Very, very strong man.

Yabuki's hit Jose and has him cornered into the ropes.

Jose, hit him back!

That's Carlos. Why is he here?

He's strong willed, have to be careful. Need to knock him out quickly.

The end...

Two! Three! Four! Five!

Darn. Lost most of my sight from my right eye.

But I only need to get in one good punch.

Take this...

After all those hits he's still fighting back.

Yet again.

I'll let you taste my punch again. Here I go.

Yabuki, go for it... Knock him down...

Yabuki keeps landing punches on Jose's face.

Is it possible for Yabuki to win?

Stop!

Jose!

Why are you allowing this? This is a first.

Carlos' here too, standing next to the stage.

Why is he here?

OK. It doesn't matter.

Just don't look in that direction.

You need to finish him in the next round.

You shouldn't be afraid of him.

Ignore Carlos and go for it. Don't let me down.

I admit, I was distracted by Carlos.

But I can't figure out his way of boxing at all.

Yabuki's punches are so unpredictable.

No matter what I tried, I got hit anyway.

Joe Yabuki is the first opponent who gives me this much trouble.

You're great, l was right, you're great.

Be ready!

Come now... Nishi, ready to start again.

Yes, l know.

It hurts.

Joe, what are you doing?

Jose...!

Yabuki strikes!

The champion is down!

Can Jose turn the tables? Three!

Yabuki is at the top of his game and seems to be winning.

Jose, now you know how it feels to be on the other side.

Seven! Eight! The champion is getting up.

But Yabuki starts attacking again.

Nishi, did you see that?

Joe used a Corkscrew-punch!

Look at that...

The kid is good, mastering a new skill so soon.

It's the most beautiful thing to watch.

Stop!

Jose is down. Great, Jose is down again.

So, that's it. Now I know what to do.

Start!

Oh, no! Big brother Joe can't hit the King.

Stop!

What's the matter? Are you getting exhausted?

My right eye.

What?

I have little sight left in my right eye.

Eh? What happened?

Actually, because of this my punches are unpredictable to Jose.

But your eye...

But enough about that, unless Jose finds out.

He's looking for my blind spot.

What about your eye?

Please don't start, Old Man.

You always tell me to do my best.

l have my own way to deal with him.

Please, go and ask them to stop the match.

What? l could never do that, Jose. That's not very champion-like.

If I ask them to stop, we forfeit.

I see, I have no other choice then..

If I keep this up, Joe'll become another Carlos.

Joe, what are you doing, you're not even moving!

You call yourself a champion?

What did you just say? Nothing...

Eight! Nine! Yabuki, are you all right?

Stop! The bell saves Yabuki.

Amazing... Jose is perfect, he is really powerful.

Why don't you give up, Joe, please?

The whole audience is clapping for you, as you can hear.

Give it up, you have done your best.

What are you talking about, Old Man...

I've not turned white yet.

White? Why white? I don't understand, Joe.

Promise me, Old Man.

Let me fight to the end before I turn white.

Joe...

Yabuki Joe's getting beat up by Jose.

Yabuki falls on the canvas, he's collapsed.

Oh, Miss.

Please, drive away from here.

There's blood on his face.

Please turn off the radio.

Yes!

Miss, do you want to go home or to the gym?

Please turn it on again.

Yabuki still won't give up.

His face is full of blood, but he's still fighting.

The champ is using Corkscrew-punches again.

Yabuki lost his balance but he's not down yet.

Yabuki gets up, he's unstable, but still fighting back.

Please turn it off...

Yabuki's in perfect form today...

Please, take me back to the arena. I want to go back.

Please forgive me, I shouldn't run away.

I shouldn't run away, l should stay beside you.

From now on, Joe's is my everything.

I should support him.

You jerk...

What's up? He's acting strange.

Yabuki... why is he acting like this?

He seems to be going all out.

No one would feel sad should he die.

He doesn't have any family.

This is becoming scary.

I'm worried about my family, my wife and kids.

Jose, you...

I'm not like him, we're from a different world.

Joe, l can't stand it any more.

Listen to me: if you can't win the next round,

I'll throw in the towel.

What are you doing?

Miss, could you pick up the towel for me?

Sorry for the trouble.

Joe, hang on, you must go for it.

To fight the world champion is every boxer's dream.

You'll soon be recognized worldwide.

Joe, keep it up, use your full attack power.

You won't regret it for the rest of your life.

Miss, you're encouraging him? What are you doing?

Do your best! I'll support you.

Only the 13th, 14th and 15th rounds are left now.

Another 3 rounds and the match will be over.

Yabuki is up in the center again.

Fight with all you've got, don't give up!

Keep fighting!

Yabuki, use your full powered strike and become champion!

Knock him down!

Just a bit more, you can knock him out.

Jose fouls!

Separate, you foul, let go.

Break!

Boxer fouls, deducting points from Jose.

Deduct one point...

Foul, deduct point.

Jose, you're the world champion, you don't need fouls!

Jose, if you keep making fouls you might as well give up.

Champion, watch out for yourself.

Joe, how do you feel, still can't see clearly?

Who is this person... fighting with me now?

Who is that standing in front of me?

It's Yabuki Joe... no, that can't be.

I've already knocked him out, how can it be?

He should be finished. He should be less scary now.

Who is that in front of me that keeps hitting me?

It must be a bad dream.

I'm imagining things.

He's an imaginary boxer.

But if I'm dreaming, then why can't I defeat him?

Last round!

The bell rang, the last round has started.

After it finishes we will finally know who won.

Victory... I just have to defeat the dream boxer.

Because l am the King of Kings.

Jose dashes to attack powerfully.

He continues to pour on Corkscrew-punches!

Stop!

Yabuki Joe finally falls down.

Joe, get up, hurry!

Two! Three! Four!

Get up, just like before, you can do it!

Six! Seven!

That's it, Yabuki!

Good strike, that's great!

Big brother Joe, go for it!

Finally, a triple-cross counter!

Wow! Yabuki is so good!

The game is over, stop!

I'm so tired, l'm all burned out.

All of it.

Old Man...

What, Joe?

Take off the gloves for me, OK?

All right.

Yoko. Is Yoko here?

I'm here, Yabuki... l'm right here.

Take these gloves and keep them for me.

I hope you'll keep these gloves for me.

Now the announcement of the winning boxer.

Jose!

All right...

It's Jose... Jose is the winner of this match.

Yabuki Joe from Japan went all out in this fight.

How can it be... his hair is turning white.

What's going on? Huh... How is it possible?

Although you lost the game I know you're the best.

It was a worthy fight, we have no need for regret.

Joe...