"A-Ah--Well, I..." It was hard to argue the man's logic. Looking down at his hands, both covered in his brass knuckles he had received as part of his reward for being a desperate and gullible sap, Ippo watched him wring his fingers together in indecision and worry. He certainly wasn't all that good under pressure when it came to monsters over men, but the alternatives weren't looking any better.

"I understand that, but... I'd rather go with someone than be by myself--Besides! You're... Ah, that is... You're helping other people, right? Then... s-someone should be helping you!" It took awhile to get it all out, but the boxer was proud of his conviction! Yes, he would dare to even compliment himself tonight for actually saying it all!