Series & First Appearance
Takeshi Sendo first appears in the anime and manga series Hajime no Ippo, created by George Morikawa. His debut occurs in Chapter 345 of the manga and Episode 55 of the anime, where he is introduced as a formidable featherweight boxer and a primary antagonist during the championship arc.
Profile at a Glance
Born on May 5, 1972, in Osaka, Japan, Takeshi Sendo is a professional boxer and the main rival of Makunouchi Ippo. He is affiliated with Naniwa Kentou-kai and is known for his exceptional strength and brawling style in the Featherweight division, typically battling at a weight limit of 126 pounds. His signature techniques include the powerful Smash, notably the Three Quarter Uppercut, along with other devastating blows like the Knuckle Drop and the Clenched Fist.
Personality & Motivations
Sendo exhibits a complex personality characterized by raw intensity and determination, driven significantly by the memory of his deceased father, a hero who died saving a child. This loss fuels his ambition to become strong and respected in the boxing community. Despite his initial reputation as a delinquent, known for leading a gang to protect innocents, he is ultimately shown to have a deep sense of honor and loyalty, especially towards his friends and fans. A notable quirk of his is his exceptional admiration for Rocky Marciano, which reflects his boxing philosophy. He often expresses a strong sense of pride in his roots and strives to prove himself as a worthy champion.
Abilities / Powers
Takeshi Sendo is renowned for his powerful punches, particularly his Smash technique, which can incapacitate opponents with its sheer strength. His combat style is classified as an In-Fighter with a brawling stance, enabling him to fight effectively at close range. Sendo showcases incredible resilience and raw strength, often matching or exceeding that of rival Ippo. However, a limitation is his occasionally reckless approach to combat, which may leave him vulnerable to strategically skilled opponents. As the series progresses, Sendo learns to refine his techniques and approaches to training, especially driven by his rivalry with Ippo.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Sendo’s character arc primarily revolves around his rivalry with Makunouchi Ippo, where he acts as a significant stepping stone in Ippo’s journey to the championship. Notably, during the Championship Road arc, Sendo faces Ippo multiple times, pushing each other to greater heights as they both strive for the title. Initially, he grapples with his motivations and training, often being disheartened until rekindled by the hope of facing Ippo again. His semi-final match against Jose Nargo showcases his toughness and ability to grow through adversity, as he learns to strategize better in the ring while defending his rank.
Notable Relationships
Sendo’s most crucial relationship is with Makunouchi Ippo, characterized by a blend of rivalry and mutual respect. He also shares a significant bond with his grandmother, who runs a marketplace with him, serving as a source of support and upbringing. His admiration for fellow boxers, especially Takamura Mamoru, further highlights his ambition and determination in the boxing world. His interactions with other boxers, like Mashiba Ryou, also impact his development and personal growth throughout the series.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of the iconic moments in Sendo’s journey occurs when he first expresses his goal to become a champion after viewing Ippo’s victory against Mashiba Ryou. His declaration that he is waiting for Ippo in Osaka following learning of Ippo’s injury showcases his determination and sets the stage for their rivalry. A memorable quote from him is: "I’ll become a boxer stronger than my father!", a statement that encapsulates his driving motivation and resonates deeply with fans.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Sendo is modeled after real-life boxer and actor Akai Hidekazu, nicknamed "Naniwa Rocky." He has gained a dedicated fan base, as reflected in the member favorites list, where he ranks with over 1,148 fans. In terms of popularity, he has consistently performed well in character polls, often being favored for his tenacity and character depth. In the Japanese dub, Sendo is voiced by Kazuya Nakai, while Liam O’Brien provides his English voice in localized adaptations, both of whom deliver a performance that captures his spirit and complexity.
Takeshi Sendo’s character is a fundamental component of Hajime no Ippo, embodying the struggle and tenacity inherent in the sport of boxing and the dream of achieving greatness against all odds. His journey not only enriches his own character but also significantly contributes to the overall narrative, providing depth and tension that drives the series forward.
