Tomorrow's Joe 2 (Original Japanese Audio) Season 1 Episode 1 And Then, He Returned...

(Cue opening theme song) Tomorrow's Joe 2 (Original Japanese Audio) season 1 episode 1, titled "And Then, He Returned..." introduces us to a vastly different version of the protagonist we knew in the previous season. Joe Yabuki, the rebellious and brash boxer who once fought his way from the bottom to the top, has returned to Tokyo after seven long years of exile. This time around, he has renounced his tumultuous past and aims to regain his place in the boxing world with his newly acquired techniques.

However, the world of boxing has not stopped and waited for Joe during his absence. Upon his arrival, he discovers that the landscape of the sport has shifted significantly, with new rules and regulations in place that directly impact his boxing style. Nevertheless, Joe remains determined to reclaim his spot as a top boxer, no matter what challenges may come his way.

We see glimpses of Joe's past through flashbacks, which reveal the depth of his personal turmoil and struggles. He had been involved in a heated rivalry with a fellow boxer, Rikiishi, which had ultimately resulted in Rikiishi's death. This experience had a profound impact on Joe, leading him to leave the boxing world behind. But now, he has returned with a renewed sense of purpose and an unbreakable will to succeed.

In this first episode, we are introduced to several new characters who will undoubtedly play pivotal roles in Joe's journey. One such character is Danpei Tange, a former boxer turned trainer who discovers Joe's potential and offers to help him navigate the new rules and regulations. In contrast to the fiery, stubborn Joe, Tange possesses a calm and patient demeanor, which proves to be a perfect complement to Joe's brash personality.

Another character who makes an appearance is Carlos Rivera, a skilled boxer from Mexico who is known for his impressive footwork and agility in the ring. Joe has his eyes set on fighting Rivera, seeing him as a formidable opponent who can help him prove his worth to the boxing world. However, there's a catch – Rivera has already agreed to fight a Japanese boxer named Kim Yong-bi, and whoever wins will go on to fight Joe. This subplot sets the stage for some intense boxing matches that we can expect to see in the coming episodes.

Overall, "And Then, He Returned..." sets the stage for an exciting and emotionally charged season of Tomorrow's Joe 2. With Joe's turbulent history and personal demons to confront, coupled with the new challenges he faces as a boxer, we can expect a thrilling journey ahead. Will Joe be able to overcome the obstacles in his path, including formidable opponents, technical rules, and his own inner demons? Only time will tell, but it's clear that Joe's comeback story promises to be one for the ages.