The gym was alive with noise when Mikey walked in. Fighters sparred in the ring, the air filled with the sound of gloves striking pads and feet hitting mats.
Marcus was waiting, leaning against the ropes.
"Today's different. I've got someone I want you to meet."
Mikey frowned. "Who?"
From the corner, a tall boy stepped forward. His black hair was tied back, his build lean and sharp. He wasn't wearing boxing gloves—instead, his hands were bare, and his stance was unlike anyone Mikey had seen before.
"This is Jin Park," Marcus said. "National-level Taekwondo competitor. He trains here sometimes."
Jin smirked, his eyes locking onto Mikey. "So you're the boxer's nephew? Doesn't look like much."
Mikey's jaw tightened. "I'm not here to impress you."
Jin chuckled, cracking his neck. "Then get in the ring and prove you're not a waste of space."
[Scene: First Sparring Match]
The bell rang.
Mikey stepped forward, fists high, just like Marcus drilled into him.
But Jin didn't move like a boxer. He slid sideways, light on his feet, eyes calm. Then—
WHAM!
A lightning-fast kick slammed into Mikey's ribs, sending him stumbling back.
He gasped for air. What was that speed?!
"Your guard's good against punches," Jin taunted. "But against kicks? You're wide open."
Mikey charged forward, throwing jabs. Jin weaved, his movements fluid, then snapped another kick—this time grazing Mikey's jaw.
The crowd of fighters roared in excitement.
Marcus didn't flinch. He just crossed his arms and watched.
"Adapt, Mikey," he muttered under his breath. "Or get crushed."
Mikey staggered but forced himself upright. His fists shook, but his eyes blazed.
I can't let him humiliate me. Not here. Not again.
He lunged, closing the distance, firing hooks at Jin's torso. Jin blocked one, but the second grazed his stomach, forcing him back.
For the first time, Jin's smirk faded.
"Not bad, boxer. Maybe you're worth my time after all."
The bell rang again—end of the round.
Mikey collapsed on the stool, panting, sweat dripping into his eyes. His ribs throbbed where the kick had landed.
Marcus leaned down, his voice firm.
"Good. You survived. But if you want to win, you'll have to learn how to deal with fighters who don't play your game."
Mikey nodded weakly, but inside, something stirred.
Jin… I'll catch up to you. No matter what.
And from across the ring, Jin smirked again, wiping sweat from his brow.
"This is gonna be fun."