Boxing enthusiasts and anime fans alike have reason to celebrate as Netflix has expanded its library with Hajime no Ippo: New Challenger and Hajime no Ippo Rising. These sequels to the beloved anime adaptation of George Morikawa's iconic manga are now available for streaming in the United States. Offering audio in Japanese with English subtitles, as well as options in other languages, this marks the first official U.S. release for New Challenger, the first television sequel to the original series.

Previously, Hajime no Ippo Rising, the second sequel, was available on Crunchyroll but was eventually removed. Netflix has also been home to all 75 episodes of the original Hajime no Ippo anime since June, complete with English subtitles and the original English dub. Notably, the extra 76th episode is also streaming in Japanese with English subtitles, making Netflix a comprehensive hub for the series.

The anime adaptation traces the journey of Ippo Makunouchi, a young man inspired to take up boxing after being rescued from bullies by professional boxer Mamoru Takamura. Since its manga debut in 1989, Hajime no Ippo has achieved legendary status, boasting over 100 million copies in circulation as of 2023.

This move by Netflix not only revitalizes interest in one of anime's most enduring series but also provides fans new and old with the opportunity to experience Ippo’s electrifying quest for strength and self-discovery. Whether revisiting the story or diving in for the first time, now is the perfect time to lace up for this knockout saga.