Ep 27. Death Match

In Hajime no Ippo season 1 episode 27, titled "Death Match," the viewers witness a crucial turning point in Ippo's career. After winning his first 10 professional matches, he is about to enter the ring with his toughest opponent to date - Mashiba Ryo, the number one junior lightweight in Japan.

Mashiba is renowned for his devastating finishing move - the "Dragonfish Blow" - that has left many of his opponents unconscious. Ippo, on the other hand, has been training relentlessly to master his signature move, the Dempsey Roll. However, he soon discovers that his opponent has done a thorough research on him, and knows about his strengths and weaknesses.

As the fight begins, both Ippo and Mashiba are in their respective corners, ready to unleash their best moves. With his lightning-fast jabs and precise footwork, Mashiba quickly gains the upper hand, leaving Ippo struggling to block his punches. However, Ippo soon realizes that Mashiba's punches are only effective when they land on the right side of his face, and begins to protect that area with all his might.

As the fight progresses, Ippo starts to gather momentum, dodging Mashiba's punches and landing some of his own. With his legs quivering and his hair hanging over his face, Ippo seems to be morphing into a beast, determined to see the fight through to the end. Mashiba, meanwhile, is sweating profusely and starting to lose his cool, realizing that he has underestimated his opponent.

The tension in the arena is palpable as the fighters go back and forth, exchanging powerful blows and landing devastating uppercuts. The audience can't help but be impressed by Ippo's resilience and determination - qualities that have brought him this far in his career. Even though Mashiba is a formidable opponent, Ippo refuses to give up, constantly getting back up when he is knocked down.

As the rounds tick by and the fighters continue their grueling battle, it becomes clearer and clearer that this match is going to be a real test of skill and endurance. With Mashiba's unrelenting punches and Ippo's never-give-up attitude, it's impossible to predict who will come out on top.

Finally, in a dramatic climax, the fighters exchange one last flurry of punches before collapsing to the ground. The audience holds its breath as the referee begins the countdown - who will be able to get back on their feet before the final bell rings?

Hajime no Ippo season 1 episode 27, "Death Match," is an intense and exciting episode that showcases the best of this anime series. With its gritty realism and dynamic fight scenes, this is a must-watch episode for any fans of boxing or sports anime in general.