The narrative of this manga taught me that a whole lot of positive build-up coupled with flashbacks usually concludes in a negative outcome coupled with a "and this is what you didn't think of" morale explained by either Takamura (most probable in this case) or someone in a similar position.
I genuinely hope my feeling is wrong and Kimura just nails the punch and drives it home. I yearn for some positive build-up with positive conclusion.
@Frozeneye - I can see that Morikawa is tying to build relatable characters, but damn, almost everyone besides Takamura has had it rough lately. Although Mashiba's been softening more and Kumi's a bit darker.
Still, I'm hoping Kimura pulls a W and finds a goal, or if he loses just retires and becomes Aoki's second. Mainly, though, I just want Ippo's comeback; that will probably come from a spontaneous need to find a last moment replacement for an important card.
@Happily_Grim - I actually appreciate Kumi being a little more sinister. I think it adds to her character and puts her closer to the personality of her brother. Her brother getting a bit more attention is fine with me as well.
Becoming Aokis second actually sends a shiver down my spine. I really don't want that to happen.
I'm also still hoping for Ippos comeback, but it gets harder and harder to imagine how and why he's supposed to come back with each passing chapter.