One of the longest-running and most beloved sports manga, Hajime no Ippo, announced an indefinite hiatus in early 2026. The news came through the combined issue of Weekly Shōnen Magazine, published last Wednesday in Japan, with no forecast for the return of boxer Ippo Makunouchi’s stories. With over three decades of uninterrupted publication since its launch in 1989, this is a significant decision by author George Morikawa, who dedicates his career exclusively to this work. The relevance is enormous, as the series has reached the historic milestone of over 100 million copies in circulation worldwide, establishing itself as a cultural icon.
The hiatus comes at a crucial moment, right after the release of the 144th compiled volume in August last year and with the 145th volume expected to arrive in mid-January this month. The magazine did not detail the reasons behind the decision, leaving a legion of Brazilian and global fans in suspense. As a result, the immediate future of the protagonist’s adventures in the ring is left open, generating speculation about the direction of the narrative after so many years of continuous struggle.
A franchise that goes far beyond the pages
The impact of Hajime no Ippo transcends the world of comics, thanks to a successful anime adaptation that premiered in 2000. Since then, the franchise has gained two television sequels, as well as OVAs and even a stage play in 2020. In Brazil and internationally, platforms like Crunchyroll keep the original series available for streaming, while Discotek handles physical media releases. Additionally, K MANGA offers the official digital version in English, and publisher Kodansha began digital distribution of chapters in 2021, expanding its access. Thus, even with the manga hiatus, Ippo’s legacy remains alive and accessible to fans of all generations, ensuring that the flame of the fighting spirit does not go out.
Now, the community eagerly awaits more information. Is Morikawa planning an epic final arc or simply needing a well-deserved rest? The hiatus, although surprising, serves to highlight the incredible consistency of the work so far. Meanwhile, fans can revisit classic anime moments or reread the over 140 volumes already published, keeping alive the hope for the return of our favorite champion to the rings of Weekly Shōnen Magazine’s pages.
