Tomorrow's hope

After the match, Joe suddenly became the centre of media attention. Journalists, television programmes and sponsors were after Joe. But this new life was moving at a pace Joe was not used to. Gus warned Joe: "Fame can lift you up, but it can also be your downfall. Keep your feet firmly on the ground."

Joe struggled to cope with the fame while preparing for bigger fights. But each new opponent he faced was stronger and more experienced than Eddie. Not only was Joe's physical endurance being tested, but his mental strength as well.

In his next fight, Joe would face an experienced boxer who had fought for the world title twice. This would be the biggest test of his career. But Joe had one thing on his mind: It's okay to fall, as long as you know how to get back up every time.

His victory over Eddie Jones proved Joe's abilities. But after this victory, Gus gave the young boxer a serious warning:

"Joe, you've reached this level, but you've got a long way to go. Your speed is good, your stamina is improving, but your technique is lacking. Your guard is too open and you are trying to tire your opponents with stamina alone. In the professional arena, that will get you knocked down one day. You need to play smarter."

Joe took what Gus said seriously. He added a new dimension to his training to become a more disciplined and strategic boxer. Gus suggested Joe work with Sam "Iron Wall" Riley, a former boxer who was a professional defence master.

Although Sam was a retired boxer, he was still an intimidating figure. When introducing him, Gus said: "Sam is known for his defence skills. He had such a solid guard that his opponents would get tired of throwing punches. You'll learn a lot from him."

As Joe began Sam's training, he realised that it was going to be one of the most challenging processes ever. Sam was teaching Joe to become a master of defence, not just physically, but mentally. "It's not just about throwing punches," Sam said. "You have to learn to read your opponent's every move. Anticipate his next move as you parry his punches. A man who learns to defend is always one step ahead."

After three months with Sam, Joe developed a whole new fighting style. He was no longer just a fast boxer, but a fighter who could counter his opponent's every move and stand firm in defence. He kept his guard tighter and waited patiently for his opponent's openings.

In the process, he developed another skill: disrupting his opponents' mental game. Sam taught Joe not only physical defence, but also psychological superiority. "The moment you feel your opponent's fear in the ring, you take control of him," he said.

While learning these new strategies, Joe began working with Lisa Carter, a former athlete, to improve his speed. Lisa honed Joe's footwork and taught him to "dominate every corner of the ring". Joe was now ready to overpower his opponents not only with his strength, but also with his intelligence and agility.