It was worth waiting all that time. I've kept saying Mashiba was secretly appreciative of Ippo at a level even he himself was not aware of. Even better, I think he's come to appreciate Ippo as more than just a boxer. This guy is here supporting both him and Kumi, and gave him all that advice. He's 100% there for the Mashibas. It's partially what he meant by Ippo is a stronger man than him.
Then that right straight holy shit. And the snap back. That's what an automatic concussion looks like. If Mashiba never boxes again, I'm still satisfied. (though please let him continue boxing).