Renji charges forward. Ryoma pumps out jabs, trying to hold the distance, but his pace falters and the clash inevitably dissolves into another slugfest. He slips past Renji's hooks and sneaks in a few head shots.
But the moment Renji starts mixing high and low, Ryoma's guard begins to sink. His output dwindles, each punch stolen by the need to shield his ribs and gut.
Eventually…
Dsh!
A short hook cracks against the corner of Ryoma's mouth. He actually saw it coming, managed to pull away, but it's still snapping his entire body sideways.
For the first time this round, Renji's glove hits Ryoma's pretty face.
"It's time for you to take a nap!" Renji snarls, cocking back a heavy straight.
Swssh!
This time, Ryoma's sharp eyes can only see the incoming disaster. He grits his teeth, bracing for the impact.
But before it lands, the bell splits the air and the referee steps in.