The world of competitive dodgeball is set to ignite screens once more as Tetsuhiro Koshita’s popular manga, Honō no Tōkyūjo: Dodge Danko, has been officially confirmed for a television anime adaptation slated for broadcast in 2026. This highly anticipated announcement has sent ripples of excitement through the anime community, particularly among fans of the original Honō no Tōkyūji: Dodge Danpei series, as Dodge Danko serves as a direct sequel, following the spirited daughter of the legendary dodgeball player, Danpei.
A New Era of Dodgeball on the Horizon
The news of the Honō no Tōkyūjo: Dodge Danko anime adaptation was unveiled through the launch of an official website and a dedicated X (formerly Twitter) account. Accompanying the revelation was an announcement video and a striking visual, giving fans a first glimpse into the visual style of the upcoming series. While specific production staff details, such as the animation studio and key personnel, have not yet been confirmed, the 2026 premiere date marks a significant milestone for the franchise.
The original Honō no Tōkyūji: Dodge Danpei captivated audiences with its intense dodgeball action and heartwarming character development, and its sequel aims to build upon that legacy for a new generation.
Unpacking Honō no Tōkyūjo: Dodge Danko
Honō no Tōkyūjo: Dodge Danko (literally “Flaming Ball Girl: Dodge Danko”) is a modern continuation of the classic dodgeball saga. Penned and illustrated by the original creator, Tetsuhiro Koshita, the manga began its serialization on Shogakukan’s Weekly CoroCoro Comic website on November 28, 2022. As of early 2024, it has accumulated five tankōbon volumes, with the sixth volume anticipated for release on August 28.
The narrative centers on Danko, the daughter of the titular protagonist from Dodge Danpei. In the Reiwa era, Danko embarks on a mission to revive the “super dodgeball” phenomenon and assemble the strongest team possible, aiming to carve out her own legend in the sport. This fresh perspective, featuring a female lead in a series traditionally aimed at a male demographic, has been well-received, even earning a nomination for the Next Manga Award in the web manga category in 2023.
The Manga’s Journey and Reception
Since its debut, Honō no Tōkyūjo: Dodge Danko has continued to capture the spirit of its predecessor while introducing new elements relevant to contemporary audiences. The decision to serialize it digitally on Weekly CoroCoro Comic allowed for a direct connection with readers and a swift response to its popularity, culminating in its rapid ascent to an anime adaptation. Its nomination for a prestigious manga award further solidified its standing as a noteworthy title in the sports manga genre.
The Legacy: Honō no Tōkyūji: Dodge Danpei
To fully appreciate the significance of Dodge Danko‘s anime adaptation, it’s essential to look back at the roots of the franchise. The original Honō no Tōkyūji: Dodge Danpei (“Flaming Rugby Boy: Dodge Danpei”) manga by Tetsuhiro Koshita ran in Shogakukan’s CoroCoro Comic magazine from 1989 to 1995. Spanning 18 volumes, it became a cornerstone of sports manga during its time, known for its dynamic action sequences and emphasis on friendship and perseverance.
From Pages to Screen: The Original Anime
The success of the Dodge Danpei manga naturally led to a highly popular television anime series. Produced by Animation 21 and directed by Hiroshi Sasagawa, the 47-episode anime aired on TV Tokyo and its affiliates from October 14, 1991, to September 21, 1992. This anime adaptation brought the intense dodgeball matches and the charismatic characters to life, cementing the franchise’s place in the hearts of a generation of viewers. The series also spawned numerous video game adaptations across various platforms, further broadening its reach and solidifying its cultural impact.
What to Expect from the New Anime
The upcoming Honō no Tōkyūjo: Dodge Danko anime will undoubtedly aim to replicate the high-octane action and emotional depth that defined its predecessor. Fans can anticipate vibrant animation bringing Danko’s powerful throws and strategic plays to life, coupled with the comedic and dramatic elements characteristic of Koshita’s storytelling. As the series continues the narrative of a beloved franchise, it will likely appeal to both long-time fans eager to see the next generation of dodgeball heroes and new viewers looking for an engaging sports anime. The 2026 broadcast date ensures that anticipation will only build as more details about the production team and cast are revealed in the coming months.
