The highly anticipated dodgeball manga, Honō no Tōkyūjo: Dodge Danko, is officially receiving a TV anime adaptation, slated for broadcast in 2026. The announcement, made today through an official website and X (formerly Twitter) account, has ignited excitement among fans of the original series and its legendary predecessor, Honō no Tōkyūji: Dodge Danpei.
A Legacy Continues: From Danpei to Danko
Honō no Tōkyūjo: Dodge Danko serves as a direct sequel to Tetsuhiro Koshita’s iconic 1989 manga, Honō no Tōkyūji: Dodge Danpei. The original series, which ran in Shogakukan’s CoroCoro Comic magazine from 1989 to 1995, captivated a generation with its high-octane dodgeball action and was adapted into a 47-episode anime that aired from October 1991 to September 1992. It also spawned several video game adaptations, cementing its place in sports manga history.
The sequel, Dodge Danko, shifts the spotlight to Danko Ichigeki, the daughter of the original protagonist, Danpei Ichigeki. Carrying on her father’s fiery spirit, Danko strives to forge the strongest super dodgeball team in the Reiwa era. The manga, serialized on the Weekly CoroCoro Comic website since November 2022, has already garnered significant attention, including a nomination for the Next Manga Award in the web manga category in 2023.
The New Anime: What to Expect
While specific production staff details for the Honō no Tōkyūjo: Dodge Danko anime have not yet been confirmed, the announcement itself was accompanied by an unveiling of an announcement video and a visual. Fans are eager to see how the modern setting and the challenges Danko faces in establishing a powerful dodgeball team will be translated to the animated screen. The manga’s premise suggests a blend of nostalgic sports action with contemporary themes, as Danko aims to overcome the “common sense of the modern world” and its potential apathy towards the sport.
The original Dodge Danpei anime was known for its energetic portrayal of dodgeball matches and the development of unique special techniques, such as Danpei’s signature “fire shot.” It is anticipated that the Dodge Danko anime will continue this tradition, showcasing dynamic dodgeball sequences and the passionate character designs by Tetsuhiro Koshita.
The Enduring Appeal of Dodgeball Manga
Tetsuhiro Koshita’s return to the dodgeball genre with Dodge Danko underscores the enduring appeal of sports manga, particularly those centered around accessible and action-packed games like dodgeball. The original Dodge Danpei manga and anime resonated deeply with a young audience due to its focus on determination, teamwork, and the thrill of competitive sports.
Dodge Danko aims to recapture that spirit for a new generation while building upon the established legacy. The success of the manga, including its Next Manga Award nomination, demonstrates that the concept remains fresh and engaging for contemporary readers. The forthcoming anime adaptation will undoubtedly introduce Danko’s fiery spirit and her quest to dominate the dodgeball world to an even wider audience.
Looking Ahead to 2026
The 2026 broadcast date provides ample time for the animation studio to craft a faithful yet dynamic adaptation that honors the manga’s legacy. As more details, such as the animation studio, director, and voice cast, are released, anticipation for Honō no Tōkyūjo: Dodge Danko will only continue to build. The series promises to be a nostalgic treat for long-time fans of Dodge Danpei and an exciting new sports anime experience for newcomers.
