June 19th, 2016
The Japan Boxing Commission (JBC) Headquarters, Korakuen Area, Tokyo Dome City.
The weigh-in hall inside Korakuen feels unusually warm, not from tension but from the low polite chatter.
Unlike most pre-fight events, no one here carries any real grudges. It feels more like a small reunion than a battleground.
Aramaki stands near the back, straightening the sleeves of his track jacket. When Coach Murakami steps through the doors, still carrying that unmistakable presence, Aramaki reacts before he can think.
He bows deeply. "Coach… thank you for coming."
Murakami pauses, studying his former boxer.
For a moment Aramaki looks unsure whether the man will accept it. But Murakami's expression softens, almost warm.
"You've grown, Aramaki," he says simply. "I've watched your fights. Your balance looks better. Your shoulders don't rise anymore when you jab."
Aramaki exhales, the tension melting a little. "I've been working hard. Coach Nakahara pushed me a lot."
