Sometimes a squabble can’t be solved with words, sometimes it can only be settled by beating the crap out of each other. At least when it comes to anime. Whether it was for revenge, glory or honour, these fighters held nothing back as their rivalries finally came to a head!
Fair warning, there are MAJOR SPOILERS AHEAD!Â
#10: Tyson vs. Kai
“Beyblade: G-Revolution†(2003)
After the Bladebreakers split up, Tyron seeks to reclaim his title as the Beyblade Champion. The only one standing in his way is his long-time frenemy Kai.
#9: Edward Elric vs. Roy Mustang
“Fullmetal Alchemist†(2003-06)
A spar during a festival takes an explosive turn as Ed tests his alchemy against the full force of the Flame Alchemist.
#8: Meliodas vs. Ban
“The Seven Deadly Sins†(2014-15)
Wrath takes on Greed as these two knights battle it out to test their strength against each other. Ban manages to get a few good hits in, but his Captain manages to win the day when he sends him flying into a mountain.
#7: Goku vs. Krillin
“Dragon Ball†(1986-89)
Back in there younger years, these two were pretty much even. Alas, the boy with the monkey tail managed to still triumph during their battle at the World Martial Arts Tournament. Such a shame that Krillin would be left in the dust following this bout for the rest of the franchise.
#6: Ichigo vs. Grimmjow
“Bleach†(2004-12)
The impulsive and violent Arrancar was a fearsome foe that pushed Ichigo so hard that eventually came to embrace his new Hollow powers, culminating in a fierce duel in Hueco Mundo.
#5: Yusuke vs. Hiei
“Yu Yu Hakasho†(1992-94)
Hiei isn’t one for being friendly, but that doesn’t mean he won’t step in when his old pal Yusuke starts to spiral down. In his typical badass way, Hiei initiates a brawl in order to beat some sense into him. Surprise, surprise it actually works!
#4: Kid Muscle vs. Kevin Mask
“Ultimate Muscle†(2002-06)
There’s nothing fake about this wrestling match, as Kid and Kevin nearly break each other to pieces in order to claim the Chojin Crown.
#3: Kakashi vs. Obito
“Naruto: Shippuden†(2007-)
Once the closest of allies, Obito’s sudden reveal as one of the minds behind the Akatsuki eventually leads to both Sharingian users battling it out during the latter stages of the Fourth Great Ninja War.
#2: Amuro vs. Char
“Mobile Suit Gundam†(1979-80)
They aren’t just ace pilots operating on opposite sides of the battlefield, these two are veterans whose battles shaped and ultimately ended the 100 Year War. Whether in or out of their Mobile Suits, their skirmishes were nothing to scoff at.
#1: Spike vs. Vicious
“Cowboy Bebop†(1998-99)
After losing the love of his life yet again, the space cowboy decides to finish things with his eternal nemesis. Their scuffle is a brutal one, but like most things in this legendary series, it’s hard to tell who the real winner is.
Do you agree with our list? What’s your favourite rival battle in anime? With new top tens published every day, be sure to subscribe to WatchMojo!
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