The WBC pays tribute to George Morikawa, creator of “Hajime no Ippo,” following hospital discharge

In an emotional gesture that strengthens the bonds between manga art and professional boxing, WBC President Mauricio Sulaimán announced a special recognition for the legendary George Morikawa, author of the iconic masterpiece “Hajime no Ippo.”

Following the excellent news of Morikawa’s discharge from the hospital, the organization’s leader expressed his joy and admiration for the author, whose work has inspired millions of fans and boxers worldwide.

As a symbol of support and celebration for his recovery, Mauricio Sulaimán will present Morikawa with a special edition Green and Gold mini-belt. This belt is more than a collector’s item; it is a testament to the boxing community’s unity, featuring the signatures of historic Japanese World Champion Shinsuke Yamanaka, legendary Hall of Fame announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr., and other great WBC champions.

“I am ever so happy that George Morikawa has been discharged from the hospital,” said Mauricio Sulaimán. “He is a very important figure for our sport, and we want to gift him this mini-belt, signed by warriors and great friends of the WBC like Yamanaka and Jimmy Lennon Jr., as a token of our affection and respect.”

George Morikawa began his career in the late ’80s, but it was in 1989 when he launched the story that would define his life in Weekly Shōnen Magazine. What makes Morikawa special is his authentic knowledge of the sport; in addition to being a mangaka, he owns a boxing gym in Japan (JB Sports Gym), allowing him to imprint unparalleled technical realism onto his pages.

Hajime no Ippo: Over 35 Years of Glory

The series chronicles the evolution of Ippo Makunouchi, a shy youth who suffered from bullying and discovered his life’s purpose through the gloves.

Realism as a Hallmark

Unlike other sports manga that resort to fantasy, Morikawa relies on real physics and technique. He popularized moves such as the Dempsey Roll (Jack Dempsey), the Gazelle Punch (Floyd Patterson), and the Flicker Jab (Thomas Hearns). Readers learn about the importance of footwork, weight cutting, and psychological strategy.

With over 140 volumes published, it is one of the longest-running manga in history. Morikawa has sustained interest for three decades through deep character development, where even Ippo’s rivals have motivations and backstories that allow the reader to empathize with them.

George Morikawa doesn’t just write about boxing; he lives it. His recovery is celebrated by the entire boxing family, as his pen remains the strongest bridge between the art of drawing and the sacrifice of the ring.