Ep 17. TKO

Babylon 5 season 1 episode 17, titled "TKO," is an emotional episode that explores the personal struggles of several of the show's characters. The episode centers around a boxing match that is being held on the space station, but the boxing matches are only a backdrop for the character-driven drama that unfolds.

The episode begins with Garibaldi (Jerry Doyle) and Ivanova (Claudia Christian) discussing the upcoming boxing match. Garibaldi is excited about the match, but Ivanova is less enthusiastic. Shortly after their conversation, a man named Walker Smith (Biff Yeager) arrives on the station. Walker is a former boxing champion who has come to Babylon 5 to fight in the match.

As the episode progresses, we learn more about the motivations of the characters. Walker is fighting in the match because he is looking for redemption after being forced to retire from boxing due to a severe injury. Garibaldi is enthusiastic about the match because he sees it as a chance to make some extra money for the station. But Ivanova is opposed to the match because she has a personal stake in it.

It is revealed that Ivanova's father was a boxer who died in the ring when she was younger. As a result, Ivanova is deeply opposed to the sport of boxing. She is unable to watch the match, and spends much of the episode wrestling with her emotions.

Meanwhile, another character, Dr. Franklin (Richard Biggs), is dealing with his own personal struggles. He is visited by an old friend, a fighter named Walker Smith who is dying of a mysterious illness. Franklin is desperate to find a cure for his friend, but his search proves fruitless. In the end, Walker dies in Franklin's care.

The episode concludes with Ivanova reconciling with her past and coming to terms with her feelings about boxing. She attends the funeral for Walker Smith and lays a wreath in his memory. The final scene of the episode is a poignant one, as Ivanova watches the wreath float through space and reflects on her experiences.

Overall, "TKO" is a touching and introspective episode that focuses more on character development than on action or plot. The themes of redemption, loss, and personal growth are explored in a nuanced and thoughtful way. While it may not be the most exciting or action-packed episode of Babylon 5, it is a powerful one that leaves a lasting impression on the viewer.