Series & First Appearance
Tatsuya Kimura is a character from the sports anime and manga series Hajime no Ippo, created by George Morikawa. He first appeared in Chapter 155 of the manga and Episode 53 of the anime adaptation.
Profile at a Glance
Tatsuya Kimura, a junior lightweight boxer hailing from Tokyo, Japan, is a supporting character within the story. He is notable for being a member of the Kamogawa Boxing Gym alongside iconic characters like Makunouchi Ippo and Aoki Masaru. With a height of 171 cm (5’7") and a reach of 171 cm (67"), his boxing style is characterized as an out boxer utilizing an orthodox stance.
Personality & Motivations
Kimura exemplifies a blend of determination and insecurity. Initially, he became a delinquent due to bullying, leading to a path of violence and conflict. As a character, he is smooth and collected yet carries a romantic side, illustrating emotional complexity. His primary motivations include attaining strength in boxing to forge his identity and redeem himself in the eyes of his family, particularly after feeling he disappointed his mother.
Abilities / Powers
As an out boxer, Kimura exhibits impressive speed and footwork. His boxing ability has often been downplayed, yet he has demonstrated solid all-around abilities and resilience. Notable skills include:
- Speed: Quick on his feet, allowing him to evade attacks and counter effectively.
- Stamina: Enduring in long matches, capable of drawing with opponents such as Eleki Battery.
- Skill Level: Ranked third nationally at one point, demonstrating talent that often exceeded his ranking, noted by characters like Miyata.
However, his style does not emphasize overwhelming strength, reflecting his balanced yet somewhat unspectacular approach to fights.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Kimura’s development is significantly influenced by pivotal moments in the series, such as:
- Delinquency and Bullying: His troubled youth shaped his aggressive persona and led him to boxing.
- Joining Kamogawa Gym: After losing to Takamura Mamoru, Kimura and his long-time friend Aoki join the Kamogawa Boxing Gym, marking a significant turning point as they aim to develop their skills.
- Matches Against Rivals: Noteworthy fights include those against Mashiba Ryou and Eleki Battery, which tested his resolve and boxing talent before his temporary retirement after the loss to Mashiba.
- Return to Boxing: Following his retirement, Kimura adopts the katakana version of his name (タツヤ) instead of kanji (達也), marking a personal evolution in his identity as he attempts to reinstate himself in the boxing world.
Notable Relationships
- Aoki Masaru: Best friends since early childhood, their camaraderie is evident throughout the series, as they support and challenge each other.
- Kamogawa Boxing Gym Members: His relationships with Ippo, Takamura, and Itagaki highlight the community aspect of the gym, fostering camaraderie and competitive spirit.
- Family Dynamics: Kimura’s relationship with his mother serves as motivation throughout his boxing journey, particularly when reflecting on his past failures.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
- Moment of Reflection: After losing to Mashiba, Kimura’s introspective moment emphasizes his growth: “I tried my best, but was it enough?” This line captures his inner struggle and battle with self-doubt.
- Return to Boxing: His announcement to return and the change of his name is a pivotal scene that resonates with fans, symbolizing his determination to redefine himself.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
- Popularity: Tatsuya Kimura is a well-received character with 258 member favorites in various polls, showcasing his appeal within the community.
- Voice Actors: In the original Japanese version, Kimura is voiced by Tomokazu Seki, while the English dubbed version features Christopher Sabat, both of whom have contributed to bringing depth to his character.
- Cultural References: Kimura, like many characters in Hajime no Ippo, highlights themes of perseverance and self-discovery found commonly in sports-themed media, resonating with audiences that enjoy narratives around overcoming adversity.
Tatsuya Kimura stands out as a well-rounded character embodying struggle, friendship, and passion for boxing, making him a memorable part of the Hajime no Ippo series. His journey through personal and boxing challenges enriches the narrative and offers relatable themes for fans.
