Isekai in Hajime no Ippo with Gaolang’s Template

The gym wasn't as packed as usual. The steady rhythm of gloves hitting heavy bags echoed faintly, and the occasional squeak of shoes on the ring canvas added to the atmosphere. Alex sat on the bench, towel draped over his shoulders, watching Ippo practice his footwork in the corner.

Coach Kamogawa strode into the gym, clipboard in hand, his expression as sharp as always. He scanned the room before locking eyes with Alex. "Alex, we need to talk."

Alex stood, rolling his shoulders as he walked over. "What's on your mind, Coach?"

Kamogawa didn't respond immediately. Instead, he motioned toward the ring, where he laid the clipboard down. "You've been making waves, no doubt about it. But boxing isn't just about making noise. If you want to reach the top, you need to follow the steps."

Alex leaned on the ropes, his usual confidence tempered by curiosity. "Alright, Coach. What's step one?"

Kamogawa adjusted his glasses, his tone steady. "The Japan Lightweight Title. That's your next goal. Win that belt, and you'll be eligible to challenge for the OPBF title. After that, we can start looking at the WBC rankings."

Alex nodded, his expression thoughtful. "So, Japan first, then Asia, and then the world. Makes sense."

Kamogawa's eyes narrowed slightly. "It's not going to be easy. The competition in Japan is fierce, and the ones at the top have experience you don't."

Alex grinned, his confidence shining through but not overpowering. "I get it, Coach. I'm not taking this lightly. If you say that's the path, then that's the path."

Kamogawa's stern expression softened a fraction. "Good. Stay focused. Your talent is one thing, but discipline and strategy will get you to the top."

Alex gave him a firm nod, respecting the advice. "Got it. I'll do my part."

A Slower Path for IppoKamogawa turned his attention to Ippo, who had paused his training to listen. "Ippo, you've been improving, but you're not ready to challenge the top 15 yet."

Ippo's brows furrowed. "Why not, Coach? I feel like I've gotten stronger."

Kamogawa sighed, his arms crossing over his chest. "You have. But it's not just about strength. It's about experience. You need more fights before you're ready to face ranked opponents. We'll keep building your skills for now."

Ippo hesitated, his gaze dropping. "Alright, Coach. I'll trust you."

Kamogawa gave him a small, approving nod. "Good. Trust the process."

The Business of BoxingLater, Alex sat across from Kamogawa in the coach's small, cluttered office. Papers detailing sponsor offers and fight challenges were spread across the desk.

Kamogawa leaned back in his chair, rubbing his temple. "We've sent out your challenge to the top 15. No responses yet. Either they're hesitant, or they think you're not worth their time."

Alex leaned forward, resting his arms on his knees. "They'll bite eventually. No one can ignore the hype forever."

Kamogawa raised an eyebrow. "You're confident."

Alex smiled, but there was no arrogance in it. "Confident, yeah. But I also know this isn't just about me. I trust your plan, Coach. If you think there's a better way, I'm listening."

Kamogawa grunted in approval. "Good to hear. Now, about these sponsors. A few brands are interested in backing you. They see your potential—not just as a boxer, but as a personality. But we need to be careful. The right deal can boost your career; the wrong one can drag it down."

Alex nodded thoughtfully. "I'll follow your lead on this. You've got the experience, and I'm not about to mess up my future for a quick check."

Kamogawa smirked. "You've got a good head on your shoulders. Let's keep it that way."

A Hidden ProgressAs Kamogawa shuffled through the papers, Alex glanced at the system interface only he could see. The faint glow of the progress bar caught his eye: 25% completion of the Gaolang Wongsawat template.

The hours of training, the endless drills, the sparring—it was all coming together. He could feel the refinement in his movements and the precision in his strikes. But he knew this was just the beginning.

"Step by step," he thought, determination settling in his eyes. "I'll get there."

To Be Continued...