The Hajime no Ippo manga stands tall as one of the most revered sports manga of all time, enchanting readers with its gripping storyline and well-crafted characters.
Created by George Morikawa and first released in 1989, the Hajime no Ippo manga has garnered immense acclaim, boasting over 100 million copies in circulation by its 138th volume.
Its popularity extends beyond manga, spurring multiple anime adaptations. The series’ first season aired in 2000, followed by Hajime no Ippo: New Challenger in 2009 and Hajime no Ippo Rising in 2013.
These adaptations, alongside special episodes and original video animations, have solidified Hajime no Ippo’s status as a beloved classic, captivating audiences with its compelling narrative and well-developed characters.
If you’re eager to dive into the world of boxing with Ippo Makunouchi, here’s a comprehensive guide on where to read the Hajime no Ippo manga and what to expect from this iconic series.
What is the story of Hajime no Ippo?
The Hajime no Ippo manga chronicles Ippo Makunouchi’s transformation from a bullied high schooler to a formidable boxer. Encountering professional boxer Mamoru Takamura ignites Ippo’s dormant strength, leading him to join the Kamogawa Boxing Gym.
Readers will witness Ippo’s evolution as he navigates challenges in and out of the ring, delving into themes of determination, friendship, and self-discovery.
Expect electrifying boxing matches, emotional depth, and moments of triumphant inspiration as Ippo pursues his dream alongside Takamura.
Where to read the Hajime no Ippo manga?
For English-speaking fans eager to follow Ippo’s journey, Kodansha’s K manga platform is the go-to destination.
Officially titled Hajime no Ippo: Fighting Spirit!, this release brings George Morikawa’s exhilarating series to a global audience. Currently, readers can access the first 87 chapters, equivalent to 10 volumes, with new chapters arriving weekly.
This launch is a monumental step, marking the first official English publication of this long-standing series for Western readers.
While the initial 87 chapters are available in English, not all chapters have been officially translated. As the story continues beyond these chapters, fans may need to exercise patience while awaiting further translations.
In terms of physical copies, versions of the manga in other languages, such as Japanese, French, and Spanish, can be found on various shopping sites like eBay and Amazon.
There is also no licensed English publisher, so acquiring a physical copy of the English version is not possible at the moment. The manga is currently ongoing and has already 140 volumes.
