The saga featuring a fighter on the run continues here, but is it really a story that deserves a monthly purchase?  Read on to find out.

The official description from IDW:

The vice tightens on MMA fighter Joe Palooka! While being hunted down for a murder he didn’t commit, Joe tries to lay low but ends up fighting for his life a bully Khan in “the circle,” where only the most violent disputes are settled. Set in the dangerous world of top-tier mixed martial arts, this series will get you in its grip and will not let go until you tap out.

Our hero is in a very complicated situation but Joe Palooka is doing what he can to survive, while forces beyond his control prepare to try and take him out. What we have here is a fairly straight forward second issue that, courtesy of the creative team, does a lot of things right as it propels its narrative forward.

The script by Mike Bullock is a functional and engrossing read that ultimately lacks any remnant of true exposition with regards to the characters. Despite that fact the dialogue is quick and free as it forms an accessible read that’ll easily attract fight fans and anyone else who might be familiar with the old school roots associated with this property.  There were times where the lack of development made for some awkward moments, but thanks to the more than competent author those were few and far between.

The art by Fernando Peniche fits the narrative well as each pencil stroke delivers a visual punch.  Style and finesse drip from panel to panel as this kinetic and visceral tale moves onward, with that said there were times where the work on display leads to some rather underwhelming results.  Facial deformities give way to a few select scenes that look rushed but the overall work on display does what it needs to in order to get the proverbial job done.

Joe Palooka #2 is a very good comic book that will certainly entertain franchise fans as it attracts some curious readers.  Recommended.

3.5/5