Summary
Ukita Kouzou, widely recognized by the moniker Ukita the Thrower, is an eighteen-year-old martial artist standing 180cm tall with a sturdy build weighing 92kg. Originally a member of the Techniques Trio alongside Takeda Ikki and Kouga Taichi within the organization Ragnarok, he later defected to join the Shinpaku Alliance. Although he initially served as a captain, he was eventually demoted to vice-captain due to perceived weaknesses in his combat prowess. Ukita practices Judo and holds the Dou classification with a Katsujin Ken philosophy. Physically, he is characterized by short, spiky brown hair, a scar beneath his chin, and a habit of wearing sunglasses at all times, which contribute to a somewhat thug-like appearance that contrasts with his kind eyes. Takeda once remarked that Ukita was among the five most handsome men in Ragnarok, a claim supported by his lean, muscular frame. Initially, Ukita was a delinquent who favored underhanded tactics to win fights, driven by a passion for Judo that led him to join Ragnarok. However, after his defeat at the hands of Kenichi alongside Takeda, he underwent a significant personality shift. He abandoned his delinquent behavior to fight honorably and protect those he cares about, developing a deep fondness for the Shinpaku Alliance and the friendships he has cultivated within it. His loyalty is most evident in his relationship with Takeda, his best friend since their days in Ragnarok. When ordered to eliminate Takeda after his defection, Ukita refused and chose to follow his friend’s path, demonstrating unwavering support and camaraderie. Romantically, Ukita harbors feelings for Nanjou Kisara, going to great lengths to impress her, such as gifting her picture books and allowing her to visit his pet cats. He is fiercely protective of her, once shielding her from a Capoeira team leader despite her protests. While Kisara publicly denies any romantic interest, she exhibits subtle signs of affection, including blushing at his requests for help and worrying deeply about his well-being during battles. She was notably opposed to Niijima’s plan for Ukita to be beaten by the Capoeira team and becomes flustered when others suggest she likes him. Ukita shares a strong bond of trust with Kenichi, confiding in him about personal matters that even Kenichi’s masters and other allies do not know. They relate to each other’s feelings for Kisara and Miu, with Ukita offering advice on dealing with Miu under the assumption that the two couples are similar. He even mimics Kenichi’s behavior when trying to woo the girls they like. Ukita has expressed deep admiration for Kenichi’s growth as both a fighter and a person, believing he is worthy of Miu and crediting Kenichi with inspiring his own desire to become stronger. His master, Machino, has noted that Ukita has recently ignited a new fire within his heart. Despite his growth, Ukita struggles with self-doubt regarding his strength as the weakest member of the Shinpaku Alliance Main Force. During a double date, his inability to protect Kisara from Shiratori, who outperformed him in every aspect, and Kisara’s subsequent offer to protect him, bruised his pride in a manner similar to Kenichi’s experiences. However, this humiliation ultimately served as a catalyst, giving him the courage to face Shiratori again to win Kisara’s affection and prove his worth as a capable fighter.
