13 best fighting anime to get your blood pumping before your next ranked game

Updated on March 12, 3:47 p.m. (GMT+8): Improved relevancy.

Anime has always been a realm of imagination and creativity, where battles unfold in ways that defy the laws of physics and challenge our sense of possibility.

From intense martial arts showdowns to epic battles featuring superhuman powers, the world of anime is brimming with fights that capture our attention and expand our horizons. These iconic battles are not just epic action sequences; they’re moments etched into our memories.

Some series stand out in the pantheon of anime due to their unforgettable fight scenes. They are the shows that keep us glued to the screen, offering endless re-watch value and breathtaking visuals.

We’ll delve into the best fighting anime that deliver intense combat, epic showdowns, and action-packed adventures. Get ready to dive into the world of warriors, superpowers, and battles that will leave you wanting more.

The 13 best fighting anime for action junkies

• Kengan Ashura
• Fate series
• Naruto
• Mob Psycho 100
• Baki
• My Hero Academia
• Demon Slayer
• Bleach
• Hajime no Ippo
• One Punch Man
• Hunter x Hunter
• Jujutsu Kaisen
• Dragon Ball

Kengan Ashura

Kengan Ashura is a must-watch for any fan of fighting anime, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience. The show takes viewers back to Japan’s Edo period, where gladiator arenas host Kengan matches, a high-stakes battle where everything is on the line.

One of its standout features is the diversity of fights, exemplified by the showdown between Kanoh Agito and Kaolan Wongsawat. Their duel showcases martial arts mastery. Each move is calculated and executed flawlessly, making it informative and exciting to watch.

But it’s not just about technique; the series takes things a step further with battles like Tokita Ohma’s clash against Kure Raian. This fight transforms the arena into a spectacle as both fighters tap into their primal instincts, turning into near-zombie-killing machines.

Fate series

Enter a world where ancient heroes, historical figures, and mythological beings come to life in an epic battle royale for the Holy Grail.

Over its impressive 17-year span, the Fate anime series has become synonymous with awe-inspiring sequences that consistently push the boundaries of what’s possible in animation. Whether you’re delving into its TV shows, movies, or OVAs, Fate has never failed to astound its audience with increasingly complex and visually stunning narratives.

What sets Fate apart is its knack for melding noble warriors, supernatural powers, and epic battles into a breathtaking spectacle. Each character possesses a unique set of mystical abilities, resulting in some of the most visually stunning and creatively choreographed showdowns in the entire anime realm.

From exhilarating chase sequences that unfurl in stunning detail to dynamic aerial battles that defy gravity, the series continually raises the bar. When two historical figures clash in Fate’s universe, it’s an invitation for viewers to immerse themselves in a world where the extraordinary becomes the norm.

Naruto

Naruto tells the tale of Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja with dreams of becoming the Hokage and earning recognition from his peers. The series boasts a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motivations and backstories.

Character development is a key strength here, and it’s the perfect complement to the intense, creatively animated battles that the show is renowned for. Ninja techniques, cunning tactics, and powerful jutsu make Naruto a classic choice for action enthusiasts.

Mob Psycho 100

Mob Psycho 100 is a standout in the realm of fighting anime, captivating viewers with a unique take on the classic “with great power comes great responsibility” trope. What sets this series apart is the fascinating exploration of what happens when the hero is unaware of the true extent of his own strength.

Enter Shigeo Kageyama, or Mob, an unassuming middle schooler who, despite his unremarkable appearance, wields an incredible psychic power.

His immense abilities remain concealed beneath his boring, normal life. The suspense and anticipation build as Mob gradually scratches the surface of his capabilities, leaving audiences eager to discover just how powerful he truly is.

What makes Mob Psycho 100 truly remarkable is how it portrays those who underestimate him. The anime serves up front-row seats to colossal beatdowns as characters attempt to test Mob’s boundaries. These battles are a visual spectacle, with jaw-dropping animation and a narrative that constantly challenges and surprises the viewer.

Baki

As an action anime, Baki distinguishes itself with an unapologetic commitment to its over-the-top nature. Its primary appeal lies in the fact that it refuses to compromise on the intensity of its battles. The world of Baki is populated with an array of extraordinarily tough characters, and their status is determined solely by their unparalleled strength and combat prowess.

The show sets itself apart with its audacious portrayal of unattainable levels of physique and strength, pushing the boundaries of what viewers might consider possible. The result is a series that consistently delivers fight scenes that are not only unimaginable but utterly mind-blowing.

In addition to the jaw-dropping battles, Baki serves up an unforgettable element — the intense father-and-son rivalry between Baki and his father, Yujiro Hanma.

This relationship is the epitome of tough love taken to its most extreme form. The dynamics between the two are nothing short of explosive, further enhancing the appeal of the series.

My Hero Academia

My Hero Academia stands as a prime example of a captivating fighting anime due to its intricate world filled with superhero characters. The series introduces a multitude of battles, each growing increasingly complex as the characters embark on their journeys from hero to villain, continuously evolving their Quirks, which raises the stakes with each confrontation.

One of the show’s strengths is its emphasis on quirk matchups, where the unique abilities of characters come into play, offering an ever-evolving tactical landscape. This strategic element adds a layer of depth to the battles, making each encounter fresh and unpredictable.

My Hero Academia doesn’t just focus on students’ struggles; it presents epic confrontations involving legendary figures. The battle between All Might and All for One remains etched in viewers’ memories as a testament to the series’ incredible fight sequences and the enduring clash of ideals.

In a world where superpowers define individuals, My Hero Academia consistently delivers adrenaline-pumping battles filled with inventive superpowers and combat skills. The classic themes of good versus evil, high-school rivalry, and inter-school competitions interweave within its unique premise.

Demon Slayer

Demon Slayer stands out for its enthralling and visually stunning battles set in a world where elite swordsmen wield powerful techniques. In this universe, a stark contrast exists between the highly capable and strong human warriors and the seemingly invincible hundred-year-old demons that reign supreme.

The series follows Tanjiro Kamado’s captivating quest for vengeance and his unrelenting determination to cure his sister, Nezuko, who has been transformed into a demon. As the story progresses, we get to know the characters in Demon Slayer Corps, including Tanjiro, as they dig deep to combat these overwhelmingly powerful villains.

The show excels at character development, effectively building up both heroes and villains. When these compelling characters inevitably clash, it results in a breathtaking spectacle.

A standout moment is the epic battle between the Flame Hashira, Kyojuro Rengoku, and the Twelve Demon Moon member, Akaza, in the blockbuster anime movie Mugen Train.

Bleach

Bleach combines supernatural, fantasy, and action genres to create a unique and intricate storyline. Ichigo Kurosaki, a teenager with the ability to see ghosts, becomes a Soul Reaper tasked with defending the living world from malevolent spirits.

The intense battles feature supernatural powers, unique weapons, and strategic combat that keep you on the edge of your seat. Bleach is a perfect blend of action and world-building, with engaging characters and intricate plotlines.

The extended fight between Aizen, the gotei 13 captains, and Ichigo Kurosaki is a classic that made our jaw drops when it first aired. Never have we seen such an overwhelming powerful villain in Aizen who easily shotted the best of the best.

Hajime no Ippo

Hajime no Ippo is a quintessential fighting anime that follows the classic underdog story formula. It introduces Ippo Makunouchi, a seemingly weak and unassuming character who undergoes a profound transformation through sheer hard work and an unwavering passion for combat sports, immersing himself in the expansive world of boxing.

The anime does a great job of highlighting the boxer’s life, capturing all the triumphs, struggles, pains, and heartbreaks that come with the sport. It doesn’t romanticize the journey but instead offers a raw and authentic look at the dedication and sacrifices required to excel in the ring.

The anime shines in its dedication to showcasing real-life boxing techniques, drawing inspiration from legendary fighters like Mike Tyson’s peek-a-boo style and Thomas “Hitman” Hearns’ iconic Flicker Jab and Chopping Cross. It’s a masterclass in both educating viewers about the nuances of the sport and immersing them in the thrilling world of boxing.

The intense bout between Ippo and Sendo Takeshi serves as a crowning achievement, leaving viewers exhilarated and inspired. It’s an anime that not only entertains but also motivates, making you want to lace up your shoes and go for a run.

One Punch Man

One Punch Man is a gem in the world of fighting anime, and it does so by flipping the script on the conventional action anime formula. Unlike typical protagonists who need to train and evolve to face increasingly formidable foes, we have Saitama, a character who’s arguably the most overpowered in anime history.

In each confrontation, the sheer power and ease with which Saitama dispatches his opponents create a unique dynamic that defies expectations.

Far from being boring, it’s a testament to the series’ ingenious storytelling that keeps viewers hooked. The buildup of a boastful villain, only to see them humbled by a seemingly unbeatable hero, never fails to captivate.

One Punch Man’s brilliance extends beyond Saitama’s power; it delves into a superhero power struggle where the strongest characters vie for influence and strategically climb the ranks. The political intrigue and jockeying for position among these heroes add an extra layer of depth to the series.

Hunter x Hunter

Hunter x Hunter is a remarkable addition to the fighting anime genre, offering much more than just thrilling battles. While it delivers intense combat sequences, it distinguishes itself by delving into profound themes such as friendship, ambition, morality, and self-discovery.

What truly makes Hunter x Hunter exceptional is its diverse cast, each uniquely motivated and experiencing significant character development. The Nen system, an intricate and inventive power system introduced in the series, takes the battles to a whole new level. It adds depth through strategic elements, creative power usage, and an exploration of psychological facets that make every fight an intellectual challenge as well as a visual spectacle.

Among the many remarkable battles in the series, the confrontation between Chairman of the Hunter Association, Isaac Netero, and the Chimera Ant King, Meruem, is unforgettable. This battle is not only well-thought-out and beautifully choreographed, it also takes an unexpected turn that leaves a lasting impact on viewers.

Jujutsu Kaisen

Jujutsu Kaisen has quickly risen to prominence in the world of anime, thanks to its outstanding world-building and an array of captivating, out-of-the-box characters. While it does have its share of high school hijinks, this series undoubtedly ranks among the top fighting anime of our time.

The Jujutsu Kaisen universe is dominated by curses, with only a select few in Japan wielding supernatural energies to combat them. Curse users each possess unique abilities, but the character who takes center stage is Satoru Gojo, with a combination of cursed techniques that make him the most exceptional figure in the series.

Throughout the show, viewers are continually reminded of Gojo’s supreme status, making him a central pillar of the series. His only potential rival is the King of Curses, Ryomen Sukuna. Initially, the idea of these two clashing seems impossible due to their existence in different time periods. However, the prospect of Sukuna’s return adds a layer of intrigue, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what could be the anime battle of the ages.

Dragon Ball

Dragon Ball Z stands as the crown jewel of the fighting anime genre, revered for its iconic characters, extraordinary displays of power, and battles that have left an indelible mark on the world of anime.

This series takes viewers on an unforgettable journey alongside iconic characters, including Goku, Vegeta, Piccolo, Gohan, Frieza, Cell, and many more.

The battles in Dragon Ball Z are legendary, featuring awe-inspiring displays of might, planet-destroying energy blasts, superhuman martial arts, and epic transformations that increase a character’s strength and abilities to godlike levels of power.

With over 200 episodes, the series allows fans to grow alongside the characters, forging a deep connection that enhances the emotional impact of the battles.

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