Tokyo, Japan – George Morikawa’s long-running boxing manga, Hajime no Ippo, has announced an indefinite hiatus, as revealed in the combined fourth and fifth issue of Kodansha’s Weekly Shōnen Magazine for 2026. This break follows a year (2025) of irregular releases and short pauses, leading to speculation among fans regarding the future of the beloved series.
The popular boxing series, which has captivated readers since its inception in 1989, will be taking a break that has been described by Weekly Shōnen Magazine as “indefinite,” a departure from the typical short, planned breaks the author usually takes. This announcement has fueled discussion within the Hajime no Ippo community, especially given the lack of a clear, explicit reason for the extended pause.
Reasons Behind the Hiatus and Past Trends
While an official statement detailing the precise reasons for the indefinite hiatus has not yet been released, many fans believe it may be related to author George Morikawa’s health. Morikawa was reportedly hospitalized last month after suffering from a severe flu. The well-being of manga artists has become an increasing concern in the industry, and fans often prioritize the author’s health over consistent weekly releases.
Throughout 2025, Hajime no Ippo saw a significant number of breaks and irregular publishing schedules. Out of approximately 48 issues of Weekly Shōnen Magazine, only 32 chapters of Hajime no Ippo were published, meaning there were roughly 16 weeks without a new chapter. This resulted in a lower average page count per week, leading to the perception that the manga’s story progression had slowed considerably.
Prioritizing Author Health
Morikawa himself has previously stated that no one’s life should become worse because of work, emphasizing that his health is more important than weekly releases. This sentiment is echoed by many readers who prefer the author to take necessary breaks to maintain his health and ensure the quality and completion of the story. Some breaks in the past were also taken for research purposes, indicating Morikawa’s commitment to the accuracy and depth of his boxing narrative.
The Legacy of Hajime no Ippo
Hajime no Ippo follows the journey of Ippo Makunouchi, a high school student who discovers the world of professional boxing after a chance encounter with pro boxer Mamoru Takamura. The series explores Ippo’s quest for true strength, both inside and outside the ring, as he trains at the Kamogawa Boxing Gym.
The manga has achieved monumental success, surpassing 100 million copies in circulation by July. It stands as Morikawa’s sole manga endeavor and has spawned multiple adaptations, including a television anime series that first premiered in 2000, followed by sequels Hajime no Ippo: New Challenger (2009) and Hajime no Ippo Rising (2013). The series also inspired a stage play adaptation in 2020 and saw a digital release in 2021, making it more accessible to a global audience.
Enduring Popularity and Fan Dedication
Despite occasional breaks and the current indefinite hiatus, Hajime no Ippo has maintained a dedicated fanbase. Its intricate storylines, productive character development, and realistic depiction of the boxing world have ensured its lasting appeal. The manga’s ability to explore themes of perseverance, self-discovery, and the intense realities of combat sports has resonated with readers for decades.
Fans eagerly await further announcements regarding the return of Hajime no Ippo as the boxing world created by Morikawa remains an influential and beloved work in manga history.
