After years of silence, one of the most iconic sports manga series from the late 80s is finally returning to screens. Tetsuhiro Koshita’s dodgeball saga, which first captured the imaginations of young readers with Hono no Tokyuji: Dodge Danpei, is getting a brand new anime based on its modern sequel, Hono no Tokyujo: Dodge Danko. The new series is officially slated to premiere in 2026, continuing a legacy that began over three decades ago.
The announcement came through the launch of an official website and social media accounts, including a new presence on X, formerly known as Twitter. Fans were treated to a teaser video and a promotional visual that offered the first look into the continuation of the franchise. While full casting and production details are still under wraps, the revival of this cult favorite has already sparked buzz across the anime community.
The original Hono no Tokyuji: Dodge Danpei manga was serialized in Shogakukan’s CoroCoro Comic between 1989 and 1995. It was known for its spirited characters, exaggerated dodgeball techniques, and tournament style storytelling that blended schoolyard fun with intense shonen action. The manga's success led to a 47 episode anime adaptation that aired starting in 1991, and even inspired a wave of video game titles during the 90s.
The sequel, Dodge Danko, made its debut on the Weekly CoroCoro Comic website in November 2022 and brought a fresh twist to the original storyline. Rather than continuing with Danpei as the protagonist, this new series shifts the spotlight to his daughter. The next generation of dodgeball warriors is now taking center stage, and with her at the helm, the story promises both nostalgia and new energy.
The choice to focus on a female protagonist in a traditionally male dominated sports genre marks a progressive shift in the narrative style. It opens up the story to a broader audience while staying rooted in the same emotional intensity and competitive thrill that made the original a hit. The upcoming anime adaptation is expected to balance high octane matches with personal drama, team dynamics, and the emotional journey of carrying forward a sporting legacy.
Fans of the original series are particularly excited to see how the legacy of Danpei will be woven into this new story. Will his techniques be passed down? Will iconic rivalries and moves from the 90s anime make a return in new forms? These are just some of the questions that the 2026 anime may explore as it reintroduces one of the earliest sports manga franchises to a whole new generation of viewers.
While updates on the production team, studio, and casting are still to come, the sheer announcement of Dodge Danko’s anime has been enough to reignite excitement among longtime fans and attract a curious new audience eager for intense sports storytelling.
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