After being interrupted by Raúl, Pedro finally snapped out of his intense training focus. It was then he realized that Jason Luo was nothing more than a green rookie. With a self-deprecating smile, he motioned for Jason to take a break.
Raúl stepped forward and asked quietly, "What do you think of this kid?"
Pedro slowly shook his head. "Physically, he's not bad. But right now, he doesn't seem suited for a technical boxing style. I'll need more time to observe. Let him train like this for a few days, and then I'll check his progress. We'll discuss things in detail then."
"Understood. I'll make sure to keep a close eye on him," Raúl nodded quickly.
After sending Pedro off, Raúl turned to Jason Luo with a serious expression. "Jason, this is your chance. If Coach Pedro decides to take you on, your skills will advance by leaps and bounds. He's famous for his technical expertise. Work harder these next few days—try to earn his approval."
Jason hesitated. "Sir, Coach Pedro is really skilled. Just those few moves earlier were incredibly insightful! But he's too strict. Having him watching me makes me even more nervous than being in the ring. It's like he wants to hit me..."
Raúl laughed. "What did you expect? He's called the 'Devil Coach' for a reason. But he genuinely has your best interests at heart. You should be glad he's already old. If you'd met him ten years ago… well, let's just say you'd really have suffered!"
Jason Luo couldn't help but shiver at the thought...
With the new training methods, Jason threw himself into practice with even greater enthusiasm, no longer needing Raúl's supervision.
Treating the heavy bag as his opponent, he charged forward, retreated, and moved side to side… Jason immersed himself completely. The bag swung in a predictable pattern, and gradually, he found his rhythm. His punches flowed more smoothly, and he began to sense the right moments to strike. The sound of his gloves thudding against the bag grew sharper and louder!
As always, time slipped away when he was focused. Before he realized it, it was already past 5 PM. Raúl called out, "That's enough for today. Go home, take a shower, and focus on healing your injuries first."
"Oh, right!"
Raúl pulled a wad of cash from his pocket. "Here's the $3,000 prize for your win today. Take it. Tomorrow I'll draft a contract for you to review. Don't worry—even if Pedro's conditions are too demanding, I'll introduce you to another coach. What matters most is that you believe in yourself."
This time, Jason Luo didn't refuse. Carrying the $3,000 home, he felt a deep sense of satisfaction.
He never imagined winning a boxing match could bring such a big payoff. It was far easier than breaking his back doing labor work!
But the risk was high. If he lost, not only would he face humiliation, but he'd also have to pay back the $3,000. Mr. Raúl was right—this really was like gambling.
Tomorrow he would sign the contract, officially becoming an amateur boxer. But after Pedro's guidance today, Jason realized just how weak he still was. He had only just stepped onto the path of boxing. The road ahead was long, and maybe only by reaching Kamman's level could he truly call himself a real boxer.
That night, alone at home, Jason practiced boxing again, trying to recall and mimic Pedro's footwork. But while his steps matched the rhythm, his punches lacked strength, feeling awkward and forced. He tried again and again until he was completely exhausted. Suddenly, a pleasant chime echoed in his ears:
"Ding! After rigorous training, your Footwork has improved. Footwork attribute +1. Keep up the effort!"
A familiar cool sensation surged through his body. His fatigue vanished, and he felt refreshed and energized. Perfect! His Footwork had improved, proving that Coach Pedro's training methods were comprehensive and effective.
Then he remembered—he hadn't yet claimed the reward from earlier. Quickly opening the system panel, he tapped "Start Draw." The interface spun rapidly before settling on:
"Reaction attribute +1."
Jason let out a sigh of relief. Compared to last time's minor talent, he preferred these straightforward attribute boosts. That so-called "Robust Build" talent had no practical use at all—in fact, it had only caused him unexpected trouble. It was downright frustrating!
...
System-Bound Individual: Jason Luo
Age: 18
Height: 183 cm
Reach: 185 cm
Weight: 75.8 kg
Occupation: Boxing Sparring Partner
Reputation: Rising Star
System Talent: Greedy Wolf Power (Beginner)
After defeating an opponent, permanently absorb 15% of their excellent Free Attribute Points.
Minor Talent: Robust Build (Beginner)
No attribute bonuses. Regular training maintains a muscular physique and enhances personal charm.
Attributes:
Strength: 7
stamina: 8
Boxing Technique: 4
Footwork: 4
Reaction: 5
Punch Speed: 6
Coordination: 6
Explosiveness: 5
Recovery: 7
Dodge & Anticipation: 5
Toughness: 9
Jab Power: 5
Cross Power: 9
Free Attribute Points: 2
Overall Evaluation: Beginner-level boxer. Weak technical and tactical skills prevent you from fully using your physical advantages. It is recommended to improve training and gain more practical experience as soon as possible.
...
Looking at the improved attribute values and the updated evaluation, Jason had to admit—the system's assessment was spot on.
His technical skills urgently needed improvement. For a boxer, having Boxing Technique and Footwork as his weakest stats was laughable. He didn't even know how he had managed to win two fights. Maybe it was just luck—sometimes, wild swings can still take down a veteran.
But when it came to allocating his two Free Attribute Points, Jason was reluctant. Free points were more versatile in real combat, and the recovery boost when assigning them made them even more valuable.
Forget it. Better to focus on training for now. With the new methods, maybe his weaknesses would soon be filled.
What really surprised him was the boost in Reputation. Thinking it over, Jason realized it was probably tied to how much the audience liked him. Not bad at all—another way to grow stronger!
...
Get early access (40 chapters ahead) plus other series available only on P@treon
[email protected]/GhostParser