Itagaki Manabu is one of those characters who really stands out in the world of Hajime no Ippo, even though he’s not the main protagonist. As a supporting character, Itagaki brings a lot of energy and passion to the series, quickly earning a spot in fans’ hearts. He’s a young, driven boxer with big dreams—specifically, the dream of becoming a world champion. From the moment he appears in the story, it’s clear that Itagaki Manabu is someone to watch.

Now, let’s talk about what makes Itagaki Manabu so special. For starters, he’s not just another high school student with a hobby—he’s deeply committed to boxing. Being part of a family with strong boxing roots, he’s been training from a very young age, which gives him both discipline and a solid foundation. Itagaki Manabu has developed exceptional technical skills over the years, all thanks to relentless practice and an unwavering work ethic. And while many might get by on raw power, Itagaki relies more on his speed, agility, and sharp reflexes inside the ring—traits that make his fighting style both exciting and effective.

What also defines Itagaki Manabu is his competitive spirit. He doesn’t shy away from challenges—in fact, he actively seeks them out. Every match, every opponent, becomes an opportunity for growth. Whether he’s facing a brawler or a defensive specialist, Itagaki adapts quickly, showing impressive ring intelligence. This ability to read and respond to different styles is a big part of why he’s respected by fellow boxers and coaches alike.

Despite being relatively young, Itagaki Manabu has already made a name for himself in the boxing community. His peers look up to him, not just because of his talent, but because of his determination and consistency. He’s seen as a rising star—a fighter with real potential to go all the way to the top. And honestly, that’s part of what makes him such an inspiring figure within Hajime no Ippo. Characters around him often find motivation in his drive, and fans love seeing his journey unfold.

When we take a closer look at his personality, it becomes pretty clear that Itagaki Manabu fits the ESTP profile in the MBTI system. He’s outgoing, loves action, and thrives under pressure—classic traits of someone who enjoys living in the moment. Itagaki Manabu is always observant during fights, reacting swiftly to changes, which lines up perfectly with the Sensing aspect. He’s also very logical in how he approaches training and competition, focusing on results rather than emotions—that’s where the Thinking component comes in. Plus, his spontaneous and flexible nature shows a strong Perceiving preference. All of this combines to create a fighter who’s not only skilled but also mentally sharp and adaptable.

Then there’s the Enneagram angle. Itagaki Manabu strongly aligns with Type 3—the Achiever. This type is all about success, recognition, and maintaining a winning image. And yeah, that describes Itagaki Manabu pretty well. He works incredibly hard, pushes himself beyond limits, and clearly values being acknowledged for his accomplishments. But beneath that confident exterior, there’s a deeper layer: a fear of failure and a constant need to prove himself. That internal struggle adds depth to his character, making him more than just a talented athlete—he’s human, relatable, and complex.

So, when you put it all together, Itagaki Manabu isn’t just a side character who shows up for a few matches. He’s a symbol of ambition, resilience, and growth. Whether it’s his electrifying speed in the ring or his layered personality off it, Itagaki Manabu continues to leave a lasting impression. And honestly? That’s probably why so many fans root for him—he embodies what it means to chase greatness, one punch at a time.