“Every boxing fan is raring to see the matchup between Yu and Qasim, the two inhumanly strong rookies setting fire to the professional scene. And Qasim himself won't be satisfied until he's crowned champion a top a throne of pummeled opponents-Yu included! But Qasim's not the only one with his sights set on K's new prodigy. The number one light weight boxer, Jean Pierre Manuel, is enamored by the perfection he sees in Yu. Just how far is he willing to go to reach that same height…?” (Ize Press)
At three volumes in, JH's “The Boxer” maintains the same explosive energy, sharp visual direction, and engaging story that made the manhwa series a true standout. At the same time, the third release clarifies a degree of uncertainty as to JH's intent with the series and further defines the book's tone within these revelations. These choices, unfortunately, push the series from a must-read for all sports comic fans into a series that should be approached with a modicum of consideration.
With Yu past his introduction to the sport and taking marquee matches, there is still a lack of utilizing technical breakdowns of the fights. Consequently, the story becomes about the personalities in the ring, leaning towards sensationalism as opposed to a purist interpretation of the sport. This may still change in future editions, but at three volumes in, the quick pace at which fights conclude seems to be the norm. Still, Yu's quick, violent outbursts are a spectacle that will appease sports manga fans, but some readers may feel deterred by the lack of technical depth in the matches.
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Moreover, the third entry solidifies that Yu will remain a blank slate, a tool for other fighters to measure up against instead of a fully fleshed-out protagonist. It is an intriguing angle, as Yu's indifference and godlike power make him a daunting figure that turns into a monster in the ring, and the way others act to this imposing ‘force' drives the tension in the story quite brilliantly. However, this affects the flow of the manhwa to the point where anytime spent with Yu outside of the ring feels unremarkable in comparison.
Alternatively, the visual presentation as JH embraces the more frenetic pace and electrifying quick beatdowns improves with each volume. Yu's primary opponent in this entry, Jean Pierre Manuel, undergoes training through meditation and puts his life at risk by fighting armed thugs in the streets. The visuals around the French fighter as he explores the extent of his mental and physical abilities are astounding in presenting the boxer pushing himself past his limits. Each volume seems to improve in its visual presentation and ability to convey the brutality of the sport and the limits of the human body.
“The Boxer” remains a fantastic entry in the sports genre and a true testament to the versatility and talent of its creator, JH. However, as the series continues, its tone seems to lessen its broader appeal, and the absence of technical breakdowns of the fights feels amiss in a series that otherwise exudes passion for the sport. Moreover, the main character being relegated to being an effigy for other fighters to measure themselves against is not an approach that will be appreciated by all.
Regardless, “The Boxer” is still one of, if not the most exciting manhwa series in print and is certainly worth checking out. The third volume ends on such a cliffhanger that readers will chomping at the bit for the next volume.
