Johnny Lawrence slumped against the cold brick wall behind the All-Valley Tournament building. His knuckles were bruised, his body ached, and his pride was shattered.

The sound of footsteps approaching broke his thoughts. Johnny glanced up, his expression hardening as he recognized Daniel LaRusso walking towards him, still in his white gi, the champion's trophy clutched in one hand. Johnny looked away, taking a hit of the blunt in his hand.

"Hey," Daniel said quietly, stopping a few feet away. Johnny didn't respond, staring at a spot on the ground. Daniel shifted awkwardly, then sat down beside Johnny, setting the trophy beside him. "You fought well today."

Johnny scoffed, his anger bubbling up. "Yeah, well, it wasn't good enough, was it?"

Daniel took a deep breath, trying to find the right words. "Look, I know we don't exactly get along. But.... You pushed me to my limit. You made me better." Daniel said thankfully, even though the two were supposed to hate each other. Johnny turned his head slightly, studying Daniel's face.

"Why are you saying this? You won. You got what you wanted." Johnny asks obviously confused.