: Mashiba intentionally steps on Miyata's foot, causing a severe injury that leaves Miyata unable to move his lower body effectively.
: It establishes the long-standing rivalry between Ippo and Miyata , as Miyata’s injury here ultimately prevents their scheduled match in the finals—a plot thread that remains a central motivator for the characters for hundreds of chapters afterward.
For viewers of the anime, these events are covered in ("The Struggle for the Counter"). Note that Episode 70 of the anime (titled "The Young Punk" ) covers much later events, specifically Ippo's "date" with Kumi Mashiba at the zoo before his match with Sendo. Chapter 70 | Wiki Ippo | Fandom
: Despite being essentially immobile, Miyata relies solely on his upper body to dodge Mashiba's "Flicker Jabs." He manages to land a desperate counter-punch, which briefly halts Mashiba's onslaught until the round ends.
: This chapter is often cited as a turning point in the series’ early arcs, showcasing the high stakes and ruthless nature of professional boxing. Fans on Reddit recall it as an emotional peak, highlighting Miyata's determination against a "villainous" opponent.