The Meaning of Iron

Hopkins stood right there, shaking slightly and involuntarily. It was unbelievable that he hadn't passed out the moment he took the punch. A professional doctor would definitely have suggested that he stay in a hospital for a few day under medical observation. But Hopkins continued to stand in the boxing ring.

Taylor's situation was better, but not by much. Hopkins's blow hadn't knocked him down, but he was hurt. The tinnitus stimulated his nerves and made it hard for him to concentrate.

The referee took a look at the two and then decided to keep the match going. As an experienced referee, he had often seen two boxers return to the ring after hitting each other. 

Taylor gave a tentative jab, and Hopkins ducked quickly. Hopkins was still nimble. It didn't seem like he had just been knocked down.

But many boxing professionals shook their heads around the boxing ring. They knew that Hopkins was not the same as he had been before the fall.