The art may seem a little crude at times (which is somewhat adjusted in the sequel "Hajime no Ippo: New Challenger"), but the style enforces the feeling you have when watching boxers in the ring. Greatly enhancing the impact of executed moves, hits and blows. Combined with great music support at the right times, this makes up for a fighting anime you just can't afford to miss.
Downsides may be the (many) interruptions during fights to show the reactions and opinions of supporting characters. This can sometimes be rather annoying when you really want to watch the fight itself. But this doesn't change the fact that this is an anime every fighting fan must see.
