Life is unpredictable!
Just as Rod was stressing over how to arrange Jason Luo's next fight, the media suddenly turned on him. Countless online commentators started blowing up small fan discussions into sensational stories.
They claimed Jason Luo was bringing "Eastern techniques" into boxing to "take over the American boxing scene."
Some even warned that "a new cultural force" was rising and beginning to influence every part of the sport.
On the surface, it sounded like praise for Jason—but in truth, it was turning a simple match into a political issue, stirring division where none existed.
BX Promotions immediately took notice. After consulting with Jason, Rod issued a public statement under his name, clarifying his background and firmly denying that he had ever practiced traditional martial arts or said anything about "cleansing" the sport.
But the storm didn't die down—it only grew stronger. Some veteran fighters began mocking Jason, saying he was "too arrogant," and calling on others to "teach the kid a lesson."
The situation spiraled out of control. Supporters rallied behind Jason, but that only pushed him further into the spotlight...
...
In the gym, everyone gathered to discuss their next move. Rod rubbed his temples wearily. "There's definitely someone manipulating this. But right now, we're cornered. Most of your fanbase are from one side of this argument, and unless we turn against them, there's no clean way to separate ourselves from it."
Jason's eyes narrowed. "Why should I? What's wrong with people supporting me? Just because the media twists things, I'm supposed to turn my back on them? Not happening."
Raul quickly stepped in. "Jason, calm down. No one's saying that. Mr. Rod's just pointing out that someone's trying to pit you against the entire boxing community. That's dangerous—we need to tread carefully."
Coach Brown nodded. "Jason, Raul's right. You need to be smart about this. If this turns into a bigger issue, it'll only play into their hands."
Jason frowned. "What's there to be afraid of? I haven't done anything wrong. What can they even do to me?"
Rod sighed. "They can't arrest you, no—but if this keeps escalating, you'll be facing hostility from fighters who don't even understand the truth."
Jason's expression brightened. "Then that actually solves our problem! Let them come—I was planning to challenge them anyway."
Rod shook his head. "You're still too young. That's exactly what they want—to build you up and then tear you down. If you accept this narrative, it's like admitting you're challenging the entire Western boxing scene. As long as you keep winning, they'll keep sending opponents until someone beats you. But if you lose even once, they'll bury you. It's happened to plenty of fighters before—don't fall for it."
Jason hesitated. "So what should I do, then?"
Rod thought for a moment. "The biggest issue right now is that some fans are getting too emotional. You should make a statement asking everyone to stay calm and not escalate things further."
Jason frowned. "Mr. Rod, those fans support me because they believe in me. If I tell them to back down, I'll just disappoint them. I can't do that. If I stand firm, I've got nothing to hide. Let them come! If I win, great. If I lose, that's on me. No regrets."
Rod hadn't expected Jason to be so firm. "Jason, think carefully. You've got a great future ahead—you're only nineteen. What if—"
Jason interrupted. "I've already thought it through. I'm not arrogant enough to think I can fight the whole world. But if they expect me to stay silent or act ashamed of who I am, then no. I won't do it. I'd rather risk my career than bow my head. I'll fight it out."
The room fell silent. His voice was calm but resolute. Everyone knew he wasn't wrong—but this meant Jason would have to stay undefeated, no matter what.
After speaking, Jason actually felt lighter. You only live once. He thought. Some things are worth standing for.
Besides, with the System backing him, he believed that as long as he stayed cautious, he'd have a chance.
"Mr. Rod, Coach," he said steadily, "I know you're just looking out for me. But courage is part of being a boxer. Of course, I won't pick fights blindly—we'll choose our opponents carefully. Honestly, this could even turn into an opportunity."
Rod nodded slowly. "Alright then. For now, that's all we can do. Maybe this whole storm will blow over soon... I'll look into who's behind this mess."
...
Sure enough, things played out exactly as expected. Fighters who had refused to face Jason suddenly changed their stance, and dozens of new challenge requests poured in.
At its core, professional boxing was about profit. Before, fighting Jason had been all risk and no reward—but now, with the media frenzy, beating him would be seen as "defending the sport's reputation," bringing massive fame and financial gain.
Tutkason's plan had worked perfectly.
Back in Las Vegas, he listened to Charmu's report with a satisfied smirk. "Excellent. See? When you use the right approach, you don't even have to get your hands dirty. Now we just sit back and enjoy the show. Let's see how long that kid can last. I hope he doesn't disappoint me too soon."
Charmu grinned. "Sir, your plan was genius. Even the higher-ups said it was brilliant. I've heard they're considering putting you in charge of European operations next."
Tutkason leaned back, crossing his legs. "No rush. Business can wait—I want to enjoy the spectacle first."
"Don't worry, sir. That kid won't last long."
...
On Jason's side, Rod and Coach Brown calmly reviewed every challenge, analyzing each opponent's ranking, style, strength, and stamina to minimize risk.
Jason agreed with the plan. With his Victory in Adversity talent active, he needed to build up Vitality reserves. Taking steady, calculated matches to gain experience and strength was his top priority.
Tutkason had no idea—while a wave of fights might crush an ordinary boxer, for Jason Luo, it only fueled his rise even faster...
...
(40 Chapters Ahead)
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