Despite the depth of their conflict and the resentment they hold toward each other, Ryoma has never been particularly invested in following Shimamura's career.
Ryoma has ambitions of his own, and Shimamura has never been enough of an obstacle to his pursuit of the pinnacle of world boxing to warrant his attention. As a result, Ryoma has had little reason to keep track of his progress.
The last time he watched Shimamura fight was when he faced Elliot in Las Vegas. Even then, Ryoma's interest had less to do with Shimamura himself than with assessing his potential to become the next WBC champion. Once the belt eventually fell into Elliot's hands, Ryoma had no particular reason to keep track of Shimamura's career anymore.
Perhaps that is why the difference catches his attention so sharply now. As footage of Shimamura's fight against Mercer begins to play, the changes in the man are far more striking than Ryoma expects.
