I managed to hold my own against King Hippo and won by decision. Then I overcame Piston Hondo. I guess my blocking skills weren't as bad as I thought. Now I'm contending with Bear Hugger.
I finished the Ice Palace and brought Santa back to his senses, resulting in a new orb. Yesterday. I cleared the Fire Place by bringing down the Minotaur, gaining two orbs in the process. Now it's on to the Empire.