Who Are The Main Characters In The Undefeated?

The Undefeated' is a manga series by Kōhei Horikoshi, known for his later work 'My Hero Academia,' but honestly, it's one of those hidden gems that never got the spotlight it deserved. The protagonist is Ikki Takeda, this scrappy underdog who's got zero natural talent for boxing but makes up for it with sheer grit and an unbreakable spirit. He's the kind of guy who gets knocked down ten times and gets up eleven—you can't help but root for him. His rival, Ryuji Kenmochi, is almost the opposite: a genius boxer with all the physical gifts Ikki lacks, but their clashes are what make the story so compelling. There's also Ikki's childhood friend, Nana Yanagi, who quietly supports him, adding emotional depth to his journey. The dynamics between these three drive the narrative, mixing raw athletic struggle with deep personal stakes.

What really hooked me, though, is how Horikoshi plays with expectations. Ikki isn't your typical shonen hero who suddenly discovers hidden powers; he's just a guy who refuses to quit, and that makes every victory feel earned. The supporting cast, like the gruff coach Shiga or the enigmatic prodigy Takeshi, rounds out the world, but it's Ikki's relentless drive that sticks with you. I reread it recently, and it still hits just as hard—especially that arc where he fights Kenmochi for the third time. No spoilers, but man, the payoff is worth every page.

If you're diving into 'The Undefeated,' you're in for a treat—it's all about Ikki Takeda, this stubborn boxer who fights like his life depends on it. Ryuji Kenmochi, his polar opposite, steals scenes with his cool demeanor and natural talent, while Nana Yanagi brings heart to the story. The way their relationships evolve feels organic, never forced. It's a classic underdog tale, but Horikoshi's knack for character development makes it fresh. I love how even minor characters, like the sly reporter Oda, leave an impression. It's a shame it's not as well-known as his other works!