Joe had intensified his training. Orlov's appearance was a reminder of the past and his dark world. But Joe was no longer alone. Gus's daughter was staying by his side, bolstering his confidence. And a few of his old friends were also standing by Joe's side.
One evening, while Joe was working out in the gym, an old friend of his called Mark. Mark had been a key figure in Joe's career and a well-known name among fighters.
"Joe, I've been watching you," Mark said on the other end of the phone. "Orlov's back. Don't underestimate this guy. He's one of the darkest names in boxing."
Joe was silent for a moment. "I know that, Mark. But I'm not the same guy anymore. I've prepared myself."
Mark took a deep breath. "Be careful, Joe. Sometimes it takes more than just preparation. It doesn't just take muscle to win against that guy, it takes spirit."
Joe thought about these words as he hung up the phone. Was he really strong? The muscles in his body could bring him victories, but what would his soul be like?
In the following days, Joe's training became even tougher. Every day, every second, every move he made, he tried to leave his past pain behind. He would give everything against Orlov.
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Joe was eagerly waiting for the day he would face Orlov. When that day came, the boxing hall had taken on a different atmosphere. Both Joe and Orlov stepped into the ring, winking at the waiting crowd. This had become not just a boxing match, but a personal showdown.
"The end of this fight will lead to one of us being destroyed," Orlov said with a smile.
Joe responded calmly. "Then be ready."
From the beginning of the first round, Orlov was hitting Joe hard, as he always did. But Joe was quick to respond, looking for his opponent's weak points after each blow. Joe had changed his boxing style. Rather than his old ambition, he emphasized his intelligence and agility. Orlov's every move was broken by Joe, every opportunity was taken to find his opponent's defenses.
As the first round ended, both men were tired but determined to continue fighting. However, Orlov had become more aggressive as the second round began. He took every opportunity to trap Joe with his large muscles.
Joe's body had taken many blows, but he got back up each time and continued to fight. "I'm not done yet," Joe muttered, wiping the blood from his mouth. "I will give everything I have before this fight is over."
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