The Boxing System: I Became the King of the Ring

Javier sits in his corner with Miguel after he had rushed into the boxing ring to meet him. They sat still waiting for the judges while the Marcus Garvey people also stood outside the ring.

The three judges huddle around their scorecards at ringside, comparing notes and adding final scores. The fight was close enough that any result seems possible. Conversations buzz throughout the venue as people debate who won. But that wasn’t his main concern, it was the judgement and also assessment of the fight. Vicente also was his concern as he didn’t know why he dissapeared to before.

Just before the judges finish their assessment and the announcement, Vicente appears one final time beside Javier, his ghostly form solid with pride. He doesn’t speak, just nods once with deep satisfaction. His companion has become a real fighter. Then he fades away.

The announcer takes the microphone as both fighters stand in the center ring, arms around each other’s shoulders. "Ladies and gentlemen, after three rounds of entertaining boxing, we have a decision..."

The pause feels eternal. Dr. Vasquez grips Tommy’s arm so tight he winces. The Marcus Garvey kids hold their breath.

"Judge Martinez scores the bout 29-28. Judge Williams scores the bout 28-29. Judge Thompson scores the bout 29-28. By majority decision... the winner and advancing to Monday’s quarterfinals... Javier Restrepo!"

The Marcus Garvey section explodes with deafening celebration. Dr. Vasquez bursts into tears of pride and relief. Tommy leaps over the barrier and rushes toward the ring. The upset is complete - the novice has beaten the veteran.

Javier raises his gloves to the crowd, barely able to believe what just happened, although it was not out of his expectation but it was still shocking. His legs wobble with exhaustion but his smile could light up the entire venue. Miguel wraps him in a bear hug that lifts him off his feet.

Despite his disappointment, Wells embraces Javier genuinely at center ring. "You earned that win. Keep working hard." His sportsmanship in defeat shows the character that boxing builds.

The tournament medical officer checks both fighters thoroughly. Javier shows no serious damage beyond the swelling in his hands and minor facial puffiness that’ll need ice overnight. The satisfied exhaustion of a fighter who left everything in the ring.