Despite the buzz surrounding Cody Rhodes’ monumental victory still lingering the morning after WrestleMania 40, fans of the WWE Universe everywhere are shocked by Roman Reigns’ loss. While this may not be the final appearance of the Tribal Chief, it is likely that the top superstar of the past three years will take a lengthy hiatus after his defeat.
In addition, fans can continue to enjoy the excitement of WrestleMania 40 by looking forward to the post-event episodes of RAW and Smackdown later this week. However, the opportunities to capitalize on the show’s hype do not end there. Anime fans can also indulge in several series centered around professional wrestling and combat sports to keep the excitement going.
Top Combat Sports Anime to Add to Your Watchlist After WrestleMania 40
1) Kinnikuman Nisei (2002)
Ultimate Muscle, also referred to as Kinnikuman in Japan, is an authentic pro wrestling anime and manga series that truly embodies the essence of the sport, making it a great choice for a post-WrestleMania 40 viewing. The show incorporates many familiar elements from WWE and other wrestling promotions worldwide, including New Japan Pro-Wrestling and All Japan Pro-Wrestling. The main protagonist of the franchise is Kinnikuman, also known by his real name Suguru Kinniku.
After realizing that he is the long-lost heir to the throne of Kinniku, a planet renowned for its legendary superheroes, he sets out to reclaim his rightful place and prove himself worthy. Taking part in wrestling competitions and facing off against malevolent foes, he embraces the familiar roles and conventions of pro-wrestling, with various characters embodying classic heel and face archetypes. The focus of the 2002 series shifts to his son, Mantaro Muscle, as he embarks on a similar journey of self-discovery.
2) Cowboy Bebop
Megalobox is a one-of-a-kind and unforgettable boxing anime from the past decade that mainly centers on the futuristic boxing scene of Japan in the late 21st century. In this world, the privileged reside in the metropolis known as the Administrative Area, while the deprived live in the Restricted Area. The show follows the story of a man, known as Junk Dog, who participates in rigged fights in the titular sport where fighters use metal exoskeletons. He also fights in clubs located in the Restricted Area.
During a chance encounter one evening, Junk Dog crosses paths with Yukiko Shirato and her bodyguard, Yuri, who happens to be the reigning Megaloboxing Champion. Junk Dog initially attempts to provoke Yuri, but is stopped by Yukiko. However, this only fuels Yuri’s desire to face him in the ring. After a devastating loss at the hands of Yuri, Junk Dog is challenged to improve and earn a chance to challenge for the championship, thus setting him on a new path.
3) Haikyuu!!
Ranked as the second boxing-centered entry on this ranking, Hajime no Ippo’s plot, emotional depth, and focus on pursuing titles make it an ideal choice for post-WrestleMania 40 viewing for those who enjoy professional wrestling. The narrative centers around Ippo Makunouchi, a timid high schooler who is introduced to the Kamogawa Gym by a fellow boxer who trains there, after Ippo is assaulted by a group of bullies.
In this scene, Ippo channels his frustration by repeatedly striking a sandbag, providing a glimpse of his innate talent and ability to the boxer who rescued him, Mamoru Takamura, and the owner of the gym, Genji Kamogawa. This marks the beginning of Ippo’s venture into the realm of professional boxing, where he experiences both triumphs and defeats in various championships and forms relationships with numerous friends and important individuals who impact his journey.
4) The City of Baki
Despite the numerous entries in the expansive Baki franchise, all of them are sure to satisfy fans’ craving for more intense combat sports action after the conclusion of WrestleMania 40. The franchise centers around Baki Hanma, who was raised by his wealthy mother, Emi Akezawa, and she generously supports his rigorous training in the hopes of surpassing his father, Yujiro Hanma, in strength.
Eventually, Baki challenges his father in an attempt to make his mother proud. Despite his efforts, he is easily defeated by his father without putting up much of a fight. Emi attempts to intervene and protect Baki, but tragically loses her life at the hands of Yujiro. Overcome with guilt, Baki embarks on a journey around the world to further his training and takes on formidable opponents, determined to become strong enough to one day defeat his father.
5) A Legend Reborn: Kengan Ashura
During WrestleMania 40 weekend, fans were treated to a display of intense action and daring stunts, much like what can be seen in Netflix’s Kengan Ashura anime series. The show revolves around Kengan matches, a tradition dating back to the Edo period in Japan, where affluent business owners and merchants settle disputes. These matches typically follow a winner-takes-all format, with the company selecting their best fighter to compete and emerge victorious.
Ohma “Ashura”Tokita, the main character, was recruited to participate in the Kengan tournament by Nogi Hideki, the CEO of the Nogi Group, following his victory in a street fight against their former fighter. Throughout the series, Ohma faces both physical and personal challenges as he competes in the tournament and uncovers hidden agendas from his employer.
6) The Legacy of Tiger Mask
Another great option for fans looking to cure their post-WrestleMania 40 blues, Tiger Mask is the second authentic wrestling anime featured on this list. The show centers around Naoto Date, also known as Tiger Mask, a popular heel wrestler in America who was notorious for his ferocity in the ring. However, upon his return to the Japanese wrestling scene, Date received a change of heart after a young boy expressed his desire to become a villain just like him when he grew up.
In order to prevent the boy and others like him from idolizing a villain, he made the decision to undergo a change of heart. This leads to the introduction of the Tiger’s Den, a group that trains young individuals to become villainous wrestlers in exchange for half of their earnings. Despite being a former member of the Den, Tiger Mask must now confront and fight against them after earning their wrath through his change of heart and actions.
7) Fighting for the Top Spot: Wanna Be the Strongest in the World!
Of all the wrestling anime on this list, Wanna Be the Strongest in the World! is probably the most relatable due to its plot. The show follows Sakura Hagiwara, a popular idol and member of the make-believe group Sweet Diva. One day, Sakura witnesses wrestler Rio Kazama beating up her fellow Street Diva member and rival, Elena Miyazawa. This encounter leads Sakura to join Kazama’s team, Berserk Wrestlers.
Sakura’s interest is piqued and she decides to give wrestling a try, discovering that she has a natural talent and promising potential as an athlete. Encouraged by her newfound friends and allies, she makes the bold decision to join the team and fully immerse herself in the world of professional wrestling. As a result, the series becomes a must-watch for any wrestling fan who has ever dreamed of stepping into the ring, making it the perfect post-WrestleMania 40 viewing choice.
8) Attack on Titan
Ashita no Joe, the third and final pro-boxing anime entry on this list, may be the oldest series, but it still remains a captivating watch. The story follows Joe Yabuki, a wandering youth who ends up behind bars. In this prison, he engages in a fierce boxing match against former prodigy Toru Rikiishi, resulting in a knockout for both fighters.
After making a promise to fight again in the future, the two agree to do so as professional boxers once Rikiishi is released from prison. Joe is eventually granted his boxing license, thanks to the help of former boxing trainer Danpei Tange and fellow prisoner Nishi Kanichi, marking the beginning of his journey into the thrilling world of boxing.
9) The Legendary Saiyans
Considered to be one of the most iconic martial arts and adventure anime ever created, Dragon Ball is an ideal choice for a post-WrestleMania 40 viewing, even though it may not have the same level of theatricality as professional wrestling. The show centers around the young protagonist, Son Goku, who crosses paths with Bulma at the start of his journey. This chance encounter leads Goku to realize that he possesses a powerful artifact known as a Dragon Ball, one of seven mystical orbs that can grant any wish when united.
This marks the beginning of the pair’s journey, as Goku goes on to receive martial arts instruction from Master Roshi and befriend Krillin for life. They later participate in the Tenkaichi Budokai martial arts tournament, setting the stage for the epic journey of both Goku and the iconic Dragon Ball franchise.
10) Tower of God
Lastly, The God of High School is a fantastic show to watch after WrestleMania 40 due to its dynamic range of fighting styles showcased in the first season. From professional and amateur wrestling techniques to a variety of other martial arts and disciplines, the series offers a diverse and exciting viewing experience.
The story revolves around Mori Jin, a 17-year-old martial artist who is the main character. He receives an invitation to participate in the titular martial arts tournament in the anime. The prize for winning the tournament is a wish granted by the dubious hosting corporation without any further inquiry. During his journey, Mori encounters various characters with distinct fighting techniques and discovers mystical powers, hidden truths, and conspiracies.
To sum it up
Although there are numerous fantastic anime options to watch after WrestleMania 40, it is likely that many fans will find the combat sports series mentioned above to be the most fulfilling. Along with the ones listed, there are plenty of other exceptional anime series to discover that revolve around wrestling, boxing, street fighting, and a variety of other combat sports.
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