15 Best Fighting Anime of All Time

Whether grounded or fantastic, the Best fighting anime They are always some of the medium’s most compelling and engaging titles, drawing fans into heart-pumping spectacles where rivals can showcase their individual strengths and talents, as well as the ingenious strategies they can come up with to outsmart their opponents and emerge victorious in battle.

Even in the world of stories in which fights play a central role, creators have a lot of freedom when it comes to the setting and features of the series. Some are more realistic, highlighting authentic fights that take place in boxing rings or martial arts dojos, while others opt for more creative settings, including elements of magic and supernatural powers that allow the fights to be much more dynamic and grandiose. to the next level.

15

Record of Ragnarok (2021)

Produced by Graphinica & Yumeta Company and based on manga by Shinya Umemura & Takumi Fukui

Record of Ragnarok Is often not much more than a simple tournament fighting anime, based on the absolutely gorgeous Monthly comic series featuring an ultra-high-stakes tournament pitting gods against mortals. Faced with humanity’s imminent doom, Brunhilde challenges the mightiest of the gods in Valhalla to a best-of-thirteen tournamentWhere you Valkyries can empower humanity’s mightiest chosen warriors throughout the ages. In epic depictions of mortal combat, this results in battles between the biblical Adam and Zeus, or Apollo versus Leonidas.

Record of Ragnarok Begins to refine his fighting anime chops by the third round, with season 2 boasting more improvements as the battles become more heated. The series boasts fans for mythology buffs and death battle enthusiasts who want to watch Wild interpretations of mythological and historical figures like Nikola Tesla with a distinct anime flair. While Record of Ragnarok Might not have the most immensely deep plot around, it’s the perfect encapsulation of what makes fighting anime fun and, often, a little ridiculous in the best of ways.

14

The God of High School (2020)

Produced by MAPPA and based on the manhwa by Yong-Je Park

The God of High School Tournament is a free-for-all competition that any Korean high school student can join, regardless of preferred fighting style or weapon mastery. Renewed taekwondo expert Mo-Ri Jin, looking to prove himself as the strongest fighter, enters the tournament, meeting and meeting different like-minded people in the process. However, beyond the exciting duels he so eagerly anticipates, Mo-ri has no idea that the secrets he is about to learn will change his entire perspective on life.

The god of high school is a simple but entertaining fighting anime that features a variety of excellent animated martial arts styles. It is certainly far from perfect overall, with the story and the characters in particular not always living up to fans’ expectations, but it delivers an incredible experience for anyone who appreciates engaging fighting scenes, as the animation and choreography are impressive enough to Compensate for any. Potential Shortcomings. Overall, this series certainly represents one of the best examples of anime adaptations of manhwa.

13

Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple (2006)

Produced by TMS Entertainment and based on manga by Shun Matsuena

Despite joining the karate club, the timid Kenichi Shirahama lacks the motivation and confidence to truly stand up for himself and commit to becoming stronger, leading to the unpleasant situation of having to fight a duel that could lead to To be terminated from the club. Just then, he comes across his one chance to win – Mio Furinji, a strong girl who quickly befriends him. Her grandfather’s dojo happens to be the residence of several masters of extreme martial arts, and Kenichi is promised that he is bound to become stronger by training there, if he survives.

Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple Effortlessly blends action with comedy, delivering a worthwhile experience for any fan of fighting anime. Although the titular Kenichi is shown to have no particular innate talent for fighting, unlike other typical Shun protagonists, it is his outstanding work ethic and commitment to becoming stronger that allows him to learn various martial arts styles and become a truly remarkable warrior, Especially when the safety of his loved ones is at risk.

12

Viral Hit (2024)

Produced by Okuruto Noboru and based on the webtoon by Taejun Pak

With Manhwa continuously garnering huge worldwide popularity thanks to the strong marketing of apps like LINE and Naver Webtoon, Viral hit is an excellent integration of one of their most beloved series. The anime takes an interesting twist on the fighting genre, with Hobin Yu becoming the next NewTube content creator cashing in on the lucrative world of viral online fame. Viral hit His quest begins when Hobin, frustrated and surrounded by people making unusually large amounts of money for mundane content, finds his niche. When he accidentally starts a fight with one of his bullies.

When the video reaches over ten million hits, Hubin’s world is changed, and he realizes that he has an innate taste for fighting. The series soon shows Hobin finding his hook as a content creatorCall bullies in real-time, a common thread found in many manhas and even present in other recent adaptations like Locism. The series is fun, surprisingly funny and loaded with strong animation.

11

World Trigger (2014)

Produced by Toei Animation and based on the manga by Daisuke Ashihara

As a mysterious portal connecting Earth to another world suddenly appears, Mikado City faces the threat of “Neighbors“, incredibly powerful aliens who are seemingly invincible to any form of weapon developed by humanity. To counter this terrible threat, a unique organization known as the Border Defense Agency was formed, developing special weapons named “triggers“And training their wilders to fight the aliens who seek the death of humanity. As Osamu Mikumo, a border agent-in-training, meets a strange humanoid neighbor who goes by Yuma Kuga, everything he thought he knew is challenged.

Although his emphasis may not necessarily lie on combat, world trigger is an underrated sci-fi title that features a variety of intriguing battle strategies. Unlike other fighting anime, which prominently feature hand-to-hand duels that are decided by sheer strength and willpower alone, the outcomes of the fights that take place here are decided by tactics, teamwork, and the ability to adapt to new environments and the unexpected. Developments. Furthermore, it also features one of the best power systems in anime, which only contributes to how engaging and compelling the fights are.

10

Kengan Ashura (2019)

Animated by Larx Entertainment and based on manga by Yabako Sandrovich & Daromeon

Combat sports anime don’t nearly always take a realistic approach with their concepts or action, and in the case of Can AshuraIt’s made all the more thrilling. Can Ashura is a fighting anime gear to answer whether a martial arts manga can be too brutal to be adapted to anime. The fights are mixed martial arts affairs, with protagonist Ohma Tokita deploying his wits just as much as his mighty strikes. To get near-superhuman people with unique and eclectic talents for combat.

Behind Ohma is Kazuo Yamashita, a Nigi Group employee, who acts as Ohma’s caretaker and builds a bond with him. The series features fictional Japanese corporations and businessmen using the tournament bouts to settle their differences, Similar to modern gladiators. The true highlights of the animation are certainly when fighters enter the ring, as blood is quickly and easily shed between a fusion of martial arts disciplines in this exciting fighting anime.

9

Shiguri: Death Frenzy (2007)

Animated by Madhouse and based on manga by Takayuki Yamaguchi

Real steel swords replace wooden swords in this dramatic, modern blend of samurai and fighting anime projected by Shiguri: Death Frenzy. The series portrays Shizuoka in the later years of Tokugawa Tadanaga’s leadership, 1629, where Fujiki Gennosuke and Irako Seigen fight for the role of successor to the Kogan dojo master. Shiguri: Death Frenzy Features visceral and gory depictions of violence compared to typical anime, Focusing more on drama and building tension.

Shiguri: Death Frenzy Also adapts only the earlier chapters of the manga by Takayuki Yamaguchi, Teasing more developments throughout the series’ 15-volume run. Considered among the best samurai anime, the anime showcases Madhouse’s signature reputation for quality in its meticulous character designs and unflinching portrayal of even the most unsettling moments. In just twelve episodes, viewers may crave more, be lured by the premise of ​​a tournament, and stay for the period drama that follows.

8

Jujutsu Kaisen (2020)

Produced by MAPPA and based on the manga by Gege Akutami

As ordinary high school student Yuuji Itadori finds his way out of his depth, facing the imminent danger of a curse born of strong negative feelings, he has no choice but to swallow the fingers of Sukuna Ryoumen, the king of curses. With no way to return to his normal life, Yuuji ends up enrolling at the Tokyo Metropolitan Technical High School of Sorcery, where veteran fighters like Gojou Satoru teach aspiring jujutsu magicians about the difficult yet necessary mission of exorcising curses and protecting Mankind.

Jujutsu Kaisen is one of the best modern battle scenesHas quickly made a name for himself thanks to his exceptional choreography and dynamic fights that are enhanced by the presence of genuine high stakes. Even beyond its refreshingly innovative and entertaining fights, which stand out thanks to the emphasis placed on teamwork and coordination, its second season was also recently crowned as Crunchyroll’s “Anime of the year“, which proves that this title is much more than memorable fights and high production value.

7

Dragon Ball (1986)

Produced by Toei Animation and based on manga by Akira Toriyama

Dragon Ball is a quintessential fighting and/or shounen battle anime, featuring creator Toriyama’s distinctive quirks and gag manga humor as an adventure loosely inspired by Journey to the West. Son goku is the main character of What would soon become one of the most beloved and recognizable franchises in historyIn his earliest adventures with a much more relatively grounded action premise, aside from energy attacks, demon kings, and wish-granting dragons. Fans would laugh and cheer at the series’ many world martial arts tournaments, where powerhouses and oddballs would create lasting memories and legendaries. Dragon Ball Quotable moments.

Goku is a simple-minded child, engaged in cartoonish antics on various misadventures with Bulma and a core group that would become most of Goku’s supporting characters in the subsequent. Dragon Ball Series. Dragon Ball Was not created with the intention of being an action manga or fighting anime. Still, his execution, along with Toriyama’s excellent paneling and character designs, was an easy hit with fans. It’s gotten to the point that the most popular and contentious discussions involve power-scaling and the best, most action-packed arcs, indicating that The series has passed perfectly in the fighting genre.

6

Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works (2014)

Produced by Ufotable and based on the visual novel by Type-Moon

The legendary Holy Grail War, whose winner is said to be granted any wish, takes place every 50 years, with the participants being master-servant pairs between powerful magi and the ancient fighters they summon to lead the battles. Despite knowing that they are about to join a dangerous battle royale where death is almost a certainty, each participating fighter has their own reasons and motivations, except for Shirou Emiya, who unwillingly becomes a master after challenging the legendary Saber, thus forced into A mysterious and dangerous world.

Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works is known for its incredibly high production valueWhich lends itself to gorgeous animations and legendary fighting scenes. However, the fights are more than beautiful but otherwise empty action scenes; Every battle is intense and there is genuine weight and intent behind every single strike. Moreover, with a fairly compelling story and well-designed characters, the title stands out from its peers in every aspect, which is why it is recognized as one of the best anime that premiered in 2014.

5

One-Punch Man (2015)

Produced by Madhouse and based on manga by ONE & Yuusuke Murata

Seeking to fulfill his childhood dream, Saitama trains relentlessly for three years, strengthening his body and heart to fight powerful enemies. However, as a result of his training, he ends up with a completely unexpected problem; He has become so powerful that he can defeat almost anyone with just one punch. Now, despite his heroic deeds and commitment to saving everyone, he is largely unrecognized due to his unassuming appearance and lack of flashy fights. That is, at least, until Genos the cyborg notices him and convinces him to join the Hero Association.

Although viewers can expect that Saitama’s ability to take down anyone in a single blow would prevent the series from engaging duels, One punch manIts fights remain some of the most dynamic and memorable medium. There’s almost never any tension as to who can emerge victorious, as no one is strong enough to pose a challenge to the titular protagonist, but the other characters get plenty of opportunities to showcase their unique fighting styles. Moreover, the first season in particular is known for its incredible animation, which really brightens this action-comedy series.

4

Bucky the grappler (2001)

Produced by Group Tac and based on manga by Keisuke Itagaki

Feared by many as a demon who takes great pleasure in fighting, Yuujirou Hanma is known as the strongest creature in the world, having mastered all kinds of combat styles and proving himself able to take on anyone unarmed. Motivated by mixed feelings towards his father, initially seeking to earn his love and later embarking on a quest for revenge, Baki Hanma has been training relentlessly from a young age, hoping to reach a point where equipped with knowledge of various martial arts and a body made For fighting, he can surpass and defeat his father.

Bucky the grappler is a simple but enjoyable classic title that revolves purely around fightingWithout a particularly deep story to keep viewers in suspense. It differs from other action-oriented titles by its refreshingly original and straightforward nature; Rather than telling a tale of friendship or ambition, BuckyIts emphasis is on brutal and sometimes ridiculous fights. The original series may not have aged in terms of animation, but the overall franchise remains entertaining nonetheless.

3

Megalo Box (2018)

Original series produced by TMS Entertainment

Megalo Box is an evolved form of boxing where fighters use exoskeletons known as Gear, which give them increased speed and power, making every fight much more exciting and dynamic. In the ring, most seek fame and glory, but there are those, like Junk Dog, who are forced to throw matches due to various circumstances. When he finds himself before a great champion named Yuri, Junk Dog’s determination is renewed, and he sets his sights on Megalonia, a world tournament whose winner is recognized as the top boxer.

As a modern reinterpretation of a classic story that holds a special place in many fans’ hearts, Megalo Box Tells a tale of perseverance and the importance of fighting for one’s dreams and beliefs. For the sake of authenticity, the protagonist decides to fight “Gangless“In a world where most fighters rely on the benefits of gear, proving that fights should never be superficial, because it is the genuine skill that prevails in the end. Even beyond the protagonist, each character is exceptionally well written and their motivations resonate .in the deep battles they fight.

2

Fist of the North Star (1984)

Produced by Toei Animation and based on manga by Yoshiyuki Okamura & Tetsuo Hara

Kenshiro, determined to rescue his kidnapped fiancee from his evil rival Shin, embarks on what is sure to prove a difficult journey across a desolate, post-apocalyptic landscape. Although he is driven by his mission, the stoic and brave Kenshiro cannot simply ignore the woes of the weak. As the sole successor of an ancient martial art known as Hokuto Shinken, the Divine Fist of the North Star, he uses his abilities to punish evil, naturally attracting the attention of more dangerous and evil enemies in the process.

Fist of the North Star is an old-school fighting title that perfectly captures the essence of the anime landscape at the time of its release. Emphasize the classic “HumanityAssociated with courage and boundless bravery, the series has its protagonist participate in all kinds of entertaining battles for the sake of protecting those who cannot protect themselves. Wonder why many recognize this influential title as one of the best retro anime.

1

Fighting Spirit (2000)

Produced by Madhouse and based on the manga by George Morikawa

Without his father around, Ippo Makunouchi spends most of his free time helping his mother with the family business, a habit that, combined with his timid nature, makes him perceived as an easy bullying target. A boxer named Mamoru Takamura saves him from another bullying incident, only to take him back to the Kamogawa Boxing Gym. Although Ippo feels drawn to the world of boxing, he naturally lacks confidence due to his inexperience. However, seeing his potential, the others convince him to train, leading to Ippo’s realization that this is where he belongs.

Live up to his name, Fighting spirit is the quintessential fighting animeEspecially for fans who value realistic matches. Despite its age, the series remains as enjoyable as it was over two decades ago, with the surprisingly fluid animation allowing each action to be as dynamic as it is exciting. Even disregarding the matches that define the series, its captivating story and charming characters are enough to entertain any viewer, even those with no interest in boxing – this quality is what allows it to stand out even among the Best fighting anime.