As the final checks are completed, the atmosphere inside Yoyogi tightens into something electric. The earlier chaos is gone, completely erased by anticipation. No one is thinking about Arman anymore. All attention narrows to the center of the ring.
The referee gestures both fighters forward. Hamakawa steps in first, gaze unwavering. Ryohei follows, rolling his shoulders once as he closes the distance.
They stop inches apart. But the referee places a hand on each of their forearms, subtly forcing their gloves to remain in contact.
"Listen to my commands at all times," he says firmly. "Protect yourselves at all times. Obey my instructions. I want a clean fight. Break when I say break. No hitting on the break. Keep it above the belt. If I tell you to stop, you stop immediately. Do you both understand?"
Neither fighter answers, and neither shows anything concern.
Hamakawa doesn't look at the referee. His eyes remain locked on Ryohei.
