Both movies has a young students that was not motivated, problem in school, family issue. Both the teacher help molded the youngster in the right path, and lead him/her to success.
Both young man in the movies found meaning in the boxing sport. Both grew up poor, really struggle with life. The sport train them to be tougher, train hard, fight hard, self defense, friendship etc
Both are about high schooler learning boxing. Was low in spirit before, life struggle, not just physically gotten stronger, the spirit rise as well. Became goal oriented, confidence, etc