The high-octane world of dodgeball is set to make a triumphant return to television screens with the announcement that Tetsuhiro Koshita’s popular manga, Honō no Tōkyūjo: Dodge Danko, will receive a TV anime adaptation in 2026. This eagerly anticipated series serves as a direct sequel to the beloved classic Honō no Tōkyūji: Dodge Danpei, promising to bring the same hot-blooded intensity and spirit of competition to a new generation.
A Legacy Rekindled: From Danpei to Danko
The Dodge Danpei franchise holds a significant place in the hearts of many manga and anime enthusiasts, particularly those who grew up with its original run. Written and illustrated by Tetsuhiro Koshita, Honō no Tōkyūji: Dodge Danpei captivated readers in Kodomo manga magazine CoroCoro Comic from 1989 to 1995. The manga’s success quickly led to an anime television series adaptation, produced by Animation 21, which aired from October 1991 to September 1992 for a total of 47 episodes on TV Tokyo. This original series became synonymous with the sport of dodgeball in Japan, popularizing its dynamic and dramatic portrayal. Beyond the animated screen, the franchise also saw eight video game adaptations, further cementing its cultural impact during the early 90s.
The Original’s Enduring Appeal
Honō no Tōkyūji: Dodge Danpei resonated with audiences due to its charismatic protagonist, Danpei Ichigeki, a young boy with an unwavering passion for dodgeball and a signature powerful throw. The series blended intense sports action with themes of friendship, perseverance, and overcoming challenges, typical of the shonen and kodomo genres. The vibrant animation and memorable characters ensured its place as a cornerstone of sports anime for its era. Its emphasis on special techniques and dramatic matches created an exciting narrative that kept viewers on the edge of their seats, laying a strong foundation for any future installments.
The Dawn of a New Era: Danko’s Challenge
More than two decades after the conclusion of Dodge Danpei, Tetsuhiro Koshita revisited his iconic universe with Honō no Tōkyūjo: Dodge Danko. This sequel began its serialization on Shogakukan’s Weekly CoroCoro Comic website on November 28, 2022. The new manga introduces Danpei’s daughter, Danko, as the central protagonist.
Danko’s Quest in a Modern World
In Honō no Tōkyūjo: Dodge Danko, Danko inherits her father’s fiery spirit and passion for dodgeball. However, she faces a different challenge than her predecessor. The series is set in the modern era of 2025, where the once-dominant “hot-blooded” spirit of traditional sports like dodgeball has seemingly faded, replaced by a more apathetic and less passionate attitude among the youth. Danko’s central struggle revolves around her efforts to overcome this modern indifference and build a dodgeball team that embodies the same indomitable fighting spirit that defined her father’s generation. The narrative explores whether Danko can truly revitalize the sport and instill a burning passion for dodgeball in a world that has moved on.
The manga, which has seen at least five volumes released as of January 2024 and continues to be serialized, was nominated for the Next Manga Award in the web manga category in 2023, a testament to its growing popularity and the positive reception it has garnered. Fans have praised Koshita’s ability to maintain the essence of the original series while adapting its themes to a contemporary setting, complete with updated character designs that reflect the new era.
Anticipation for the 2026 Anime
The announcement of a TV anime adaptation for Honō no Tōkyūjo: Dodge Danko in 2026 has naturally generated considerable excitement among long-time fans of the Dodge Danpei franchise and newcomers alike. While specific details regarding the animation studio, director, voice cast, and exact premiere date within 2026 are yet to be revealed, the confirmation alone signifies a major revival for the series.
The anime adaptation will be crucial in visually bringing Danko’s modern dodgeball battles to life. Fans will be eager to see how the animation studio interprets Koshita’s dynamic art style and the unique “super dodgeball” techniques that are a hallmark of the franchise. The transition from the web manga format to a full-fledged TV anime offers an opportunity to expand the narrative, develop characters further, and introduce new viewers to the high-stakes world of dodgeball.
As the release year of 2026 approaches, more information is expected to be unveiled, including promotional materials, key visuals, and potentially a glimpse into the animation style. The revival of Honō no Tōkyūjo: Dodge Danko promises to be a nostalgic journey for those who remember Danpei’s exploits, while simultaneously introducing a fresh, spirited narrative about his daughter’s quest to reclaim the glory of dodgeball in the 21st century.
