Fuga has finally returned to address the current problems, being responsible for a forbidden technique and assists Houtaro in his transformation using Chemy. And there's the usual KR trope of Houtaro continues to push forward despite not being fully healed, ignoring the pleas of others to take it easy.

Geryon made a deal with the Dark Sisters to betray others similar to Shiori, but Geryon's more successful and is the one in charge. It is also revealed that Kyoka formed a trio with Minato and Suzuya, making Minato's betrayal feel more personal to Kyoka, and back then she also had an usual caretaker/glue role between Minato and Suzuya.

It seems like usual media trope to make the noble and righteous ones losers or incompetent, albeit Houtaro is established as a jock, but it's more straight for Suzuya that of course, kindness equals weakness. Minato also considered Suzuya's dream naive, which should explain why he won't realize that he needs to believe in Houtaro's power before. Not strictly this series or KR, but in general this seems to give people an idea that, if you have a desire to do good, it'd turn you weak (and no way they'd acknowledge Houtaro's capabilities, it can be deemed as plot armor).

Well, I guess this happens after Zukyumpire stuff, but this also feels similar to Houtaro's belief before about Zukyumpire must have a good reason, which he also does to Minato and it's also confirmed. Albeit as you said, you claimed Houtaro does acknowledge the wrestler being evil.