Whether you're a fan of classic tales of underdog heroes or futuristic boxing adventures, these anime have something for every boxing enthusiast. In this article, we'll step into the ring and explore the best boxing anime out there. So, without further ado, let's get started.

10. One-pound Gospel

From one of the preeminent manga writers, Rumiko Takahashi, One-pound Gospel is a refreshing boxing anime from the late 1980s that is praised for its situational comedy and realistic approach to the sport. The anime spans a single 50-minute episode, adapting only part of the original story.

The story follows Kosaku Hatanaka, who struggles to control his greedy impulses to reach the top of the boxing world. While struggling to cope with his weak will, Kosaku meets Sister Angela, a devout nun who helps him get back on track.

9. Ring ni Kakero

Better known by its English title “Put It All in the Ring,” Ring ni Kakero was ahead of its time when it was first released in 2004. Toei Animation’s 36-episode anime features a modern animation style and chronicles the life of young boxer Ryuji Takane, who aims to become the world champion in honor of his late father.

Under the guidance of his sister Kiku, Ryuji trains tirelessly to master the formidable Boomerang boxing move as the brother and sister duo put everything on the line. Together, they overcome many challenges and face many powerful rivals as Ryuji rises through the ranks of the boxing world.

8. Slow Step

Slow Step is a sports romantic comedy anime featuring a combination of boxing and softball. Featuring the generic trope of a love triangle, the story revolves around Minatsu Nakazato, a popular high school student and softball player who is forced to disguise herself as a boy.

She assumes the identity of "Maria" and enrolls in a new school, where she encounters Shu Akiba, a fellow student, and Naoto Kadomatsu, a promising boxer, resulting in a three-way relationship that grows more complicated as time goes on.

7. Levius

Unlike other boxing anime genres, Levius breaks away from the stereotypical theme by introducing cybernetically augmented arena fighters into ancient combat sports. The story takes place in an alternate cyberpunk 19th century, where metalboxing has become the Imperial City's premier form of entertainment.

Levius Cromwell, an orphan with bold dreams for his future, begins to emerge as a young fighter while training with his uncle to become the Imperial City's Metalboxing champion. The anime's heavy use of CGI may not appeal to viewers, but the quirky concept makes Levius worth a try.

6. Nozomi Witches

“Love drags you to places you never wanted to be” – the central theme of Nozomi Witches can be understood in a similar context, where the main character Ryoutaro Shiba is coerced into joining his school’s boxing club after meeting the charming Nozomi Egawa.

Without grand ambitions or a solid source of inspiration, Ryoutaro soon discovers he may have a boxing talent he never knew existed. Nozomi Witches offers excellent character development with its engaging romantic plot and sudden plot twists.

5. Rainbow

Rainbow is an underrated delinquent anime that showcases the honest side of ruffians through boxing. Produced by the renowned Studio Madhouse, the series is set in 1950s Japan and tells the story of six junior delinquents who are captured for committing petty crimes.

They are then sent to a disciplinary school where they meet their mentor, a former boxer, and are locked in the same cell with them. In the cruel facility, the group must learn to work together if they are to survive the hostile and unforgiving environment.

4. Ashita no Joe

Ashita no Joe, also known as "Tomorrow's Joe," is a groundbreaking boxing anime that began airing in the 1960s and influenced many subsequent series. The anime follows Joe Yabuki, a troubled young man who has a talent for boxing but lacks discipline.

He is discovered by Danpei Tange, a failed boxing coach who takes Joe under his wing and trains him to channel his raw emotions into learning the art of boxing. Often clinging to his old habits, Joe must face pitfalls that will test his mettle to become a professional boxer.

3. Baki

Netflix's original martial arts anime, Baki, is based on Keisuke Itagaki's manga and has spawned several sequels over the years. Praised for its pure and brutal approach to combat, the original story follows Baki Hanma as he sets out to defeat his father, Yuujirou, the strongest man in the world.

To surpass his father, Baki enters a fighting tournament where renowned martial artists from around the world face off in a deadly confrontation. The introduction of a wide variety of martial arts techniques, such as karate, boxing, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, adds variety to Baki's violent and over-the-top world.

2. Hajime no Ippo

Hajime no Ippo is a critically acclaimed boxing-themed sports anime from Madhouse. The series follows high school student Ippo Makunoichi's journey from being bullied to becoming a professional boxing champion. Along the way, he faces a variety of challenges, both inside and outside the ring.

After brief training with a rising boxer, Ippo takes his first steps into the boxing ring, facing a series of challenging opponents, each more powerful than the last. With his resilient body and fierce fighting spirit, the gentle young man seeks to conquer the world and become the greatest of all time.

1. Megalo Box

Megalo Box is a Netflix original boxing anime that pays homage to the Ashita no Joe franchise, releasing in celebration of the series' 50th anniversary. Set in a futuristic setting, Megalo Box utilizes steampunk elements and a retro art style as a tribute to its classic predecessor.

Set in the late 21st century, where boxers use exoskeletons to fight, the narrative centers on a promising underground fighter, Junk Dog, who was used to playing matches for money. However, after being effortlessly defeated by the Megalo Box champion, Junk Dog decides to seriously climb the boxing ranks.

Which of the following boxing anime is your favorite? Feel free to comment and recommend any other anime like the ones listed above. Also, don't forget to share this article with your otaku friends.