Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple

The story centers on Kenichi Shirahama, a 15-year-old high school student who has long endured bullying. After befriending transfer student Miu Fūrinji, he resolves to strengthen himself and accompanies her to Ryōzanpaku, a dojo overseen by her grandfather, the undefeated martial artist Hayato Fūrinji, where several masters of diverse disciplines reside.

Following basic instruction from Miu, Kenichi defeats a prominent member of the school's karate club, drawing the attention of delinquents. Initially training for self-defense, he eventually becomes a full disciple of Ryōzanpaku and develops feelings for Miu. His routine alternates between training under the dojo's six masters and confronting members of "Ragnarok", a gang of bullies seeking either to recruit or defeat him.

After Ragnarok's dissolution, Kenichi and Miu face Yomi, disciples trained by masters of Yami, a rival organization to Ryōzanpaku. While Ryōzanpaku adheres to the principle of sparing opponents (Katsujin-ken), Yami embraces lethal methods (Satsujin-ken). The conflict between the factions escalates until a final confrontation over Yami's goal to instigate global chaos, termed "The Eternal Sunset." Following the prevention of this scheme and Yami's defeat, both organizations disband. Kenichi continues his training at Ryōzanpaku; years later, he emerges as a renowned novelist, with implications that he marries Miu and surpasses her grandfather's martial prowess—fulfilling Hayato's vow that Miu may only wed someone capable of defeating him.

;{{Nihongo|Kenichi Shirahama|白浜 兼一|Shirahama Ken'ichi}}

:{{anime voices|Tomokazu Seki|Jessie James Grelle}}

:Kenichi is a second year high school student. The story follows him as he continues to train, and eventually live, at the Ryozanpaku dojo, fighting increasingly capable enemies. He lacks any form of sakki (killer intent) and adheres to a strict code of morals. As a result, Kenichi has made many friends, mostly of former enemies, and wins the affections of Renka Ma, Miu, Izumi, and Li Raichi.

;{{Nihongo|Miu Fūrinji|風林寺 美羽|Fūrinji Miu}}

:{{anime voices|Tomoko Kawakami (TV series), Rie Kugimiya (OVA)|Carrie Savage}}

:Kenichi's classmate and love interest. Miu came into Hayato's care when his son murdered several of his friends and his wife, sparing Miu by accident. Thereafter Miu learned martial arts from her grandfather. Miu is often clumsy among her fellows, and requires Kenichi's support in making friends. Miu has a great fondness for kittens and becomes hostile towards anyone who harms one. She is prone to rash decisions in money-making.

;{{Nihongo|Hayato Fūrinji|風林寺 隼人|Fūrinji Hayato}}

:{{anime voices|Hiroshi Arikawa (TV series), Yuzuru Fujimoto (OVA)|R. Bruce Elliott}}

:Miu's grandfather and the elder of the Ryōzanpaku Dojo. He is tall, muscular, and possesses tremendous vitality despite his advanced age and is known for never having lost a fight in his entire life. Hayato is a kind old man but still possesses a reckless streak and can be arrogant. He is fond of Kenichi, calling him "Ken-chan", and is the only one who apologizes to him for difficult exercises. He also realizes Kenichi's feelings for Miu but declares that he will only allow Kenichi to marry her if he defeats him in a fight.

;{{Nihongo|Shio Sakaki|逆鬼 至緒|Sakaki Shio}}

:{{anime voices|Unshō Ishizuka|Christopher Sabat}}

:A 30-year-old master of karate. He is a tall man almost always seen wearing a leather jacket and has a long scar across the bridge of his nose. He is often depicted as fierce in conversation and embarrassed by trivial things, and tends to quarrel with others, especially Apachai. He also gambles and drinks frequently and often places bets on Kenichi.

;{{Nihongo|Apachai Hopachai|アパチャイ・ホパチャイ|Apachai Hopachai}}

:{{anime voices|Hiroya Ishimaru|Sonny Strait}}

:A 28-year-old master of Muay Thai and is known as the "Grim Reaper" of the Muay Thai underworld fighting circuit. He is tall and powerfully built, has tanned skin, and is usually seen wearing a tank top and shorts with bandages wrapped around his hands and feet. Apachai has been fighting life or death battles in underground Muay Thai fights since he was a teenager.

;{{Nihongo|Shigure Kōsaka|香坂 しぐれ|Kōsaka Shigure}}

:{{anime voices|Mamiko Noto|Trina Nishimura{{cite press release|title=Trina Nishimura to Appear at Otakon 2012|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/press-release/2012-07-19/trina-nishimura-to-appear-at-otakon-2012|publisher=Otakon|via=Anime News Network|access-date=October 24, 2024|date=July 18, 2012}}}}

:A 23-year-old weapons master, who dresses in a small pink kimono; underneath she wears bandages over her chest and a {{Transliteration|ja|fundoshi}}. When fighting seriously, she dons chain mail. She has a pet mouse named {{Nihongo|Tōchūmaru|闘忠丸|Tōchūmaru}} who is also a weapons master.

;{{Nihongo|Akisame Kōetsuji|岬越寺 秋雨|Kōetsuji Akisame}}

:{{anime voices|Jūrōta Kosugi|Kent Williams}}

:A 38-year-old Jujitsu master, and the first master to train Kenichi. He is an old friend of Miu's father, Saiga. Despite his apparent fragility, he is immensely strong and capable, and can easily interpret other characters' unspoken thoughts. Additionally he has mastered calligraphy, painting, pottery, and sculpting, and builds contraptions as both training devices for Kenichi and power sources for the dojo, including a treadmill generator. He also owns an orthopedic clinic and can reset bones with ease. He has proved to be a good trauma surgeon also, and speaks Russian fluently.

;{{Nihongo|Kensei Ma|馬 剣星|Ba/Ma Kensei}}

:{{anime voices|Issei Futamata|Vic Mignogna (TV series), Daniel J. Edwards (OVA)}}{{cite web|last=Pineda|first=Rafael|title=Discotek Licenses 1997 Berserk Anime, Urusei Yatsura OVAs, Mazinkaiser, More|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2024-01-08/discotek-licenses-1997-berserk-anime-urusei-yatsura-ovas-mazinkaiser-more/.206265|website=Anime News Network|access-date=January 9, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109044752/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2024-01-08/discotek-licenses-1997-berserk-anime-urusei-yatsura-ovas-mazinkaiser-more/.206265|archive-date=January 9, 2024|date=January 8, 2024|url-status=live}}

:A 42-year-old master of Chinese Kenpō. He is short, balding, and always wears a hat. He has been training in martial arts since he was very young and was the leader of a large martial arts alliance in China, which has 10,000 followers, which he left behind. He has a wife and three children in China. Kenichi has absolute trust in Ma and has stated that he has never questioned his convictions as a martial artist.

;{{Nihongo|Haruo Niijima|新島 春男|Niijima Haruo}}

:{{Anime voices|Takumi Yamazaki|Todd Haberkorn}}

:A member of the Newspaper Club at Kenichi's school and has a broad range of expertise, including stealth, lock picking, tinkering, programming, and blackmailing. He retreats from most physical danger; but is also a skilled tactician.

{{main|List of Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple chapters{{!}}List of Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple chapters}}

Manga author {{ill|Syun Matsuena|ja|松江名俊}} first published a manga series titled {{Nihongo|Tatakae! Ryōzanpaku Shijō Saikyō no Deshi|戦え!梁山泊 史上最強の弟子||{{lit.}} "Fight! Ryōzanpaku, History's Strongest Disciple"}}, which ran for 28 chapters in Shogakukan's monthly magazine Shōnen Sunday Super from 1999 to 2002,{{cite web|script-title=ja:週刊少年サンデースーパー １１月号 (1999年10月20日)|url=http://www.shogakukan.co.jp/main/magazines/sunsuper.html|publisher=Shogakukan|access-date=October 19, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19991023045847/http://www.shogakukan.co.jp/main/magazines/sunsuper.html|archive-date=October 23, 1999|language=ja}}{{cite web|script-title=ja:週刊少年サンデースーパー ２月号 (2002年1月25日)|url=http://www.s-book.com/plsql/sbc_mag2k_code?sho=081282&sha=1&type=c|publisher=Shogakukan|access-date=October 19, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020227224537/http://www.s-book.com/plsql/sbc_mag2k_code?sho=081282&sha=1&type=c|archive-date=February 27, 2002|language=ja}} with its chapters collected in five {{Transliteration|ja|tankōbon}} volumes, released from September 18, 2000, to April 18, 2002.{{cite web|script-title=ja:戦え！梁山泊史上最強の弟子 / 1|url=http://www.s-book.com/plsql/sbc_book?isbn=4091261116|publisher=Shogakukan|access-date=October 19, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030513225635/http://www.s-book.com/plsql/sbc_book?isbn=4091261116|archive-date=May 13, 2003|language=ja}}

{{cite web|script-title=ja:戦え！梁山泊史上最強の弟子 / 2|url=http://www.s-book.com/plsql/sbc_book?isbn=4091261124|publisher=Shogakukan|access-date=October 19, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030513225205/http://www.s-book.com/plsql/sbc_book?isbn=4091261124|archive-date=May 13, 2003|language=ja}}

{{cite web|script-title=ja:戦え！梁山泊史上最強の弟子 / 3|url=http://www.s-book.com/plsql/sbc_book?isbn=4091261132|publisher=Shogakukan|access-date=October 19, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030513225201/http://www.s-book.com/plsql/sbc_book?isbn=4091261132|archive-date=May 13, 2003|language=ja}}

{{cite web|script-title=ja:戦え！梁山泊史上最強の弟子 / 4|url=http://www.s-book.com/plsql/sbc_book?isbn=4091261140|publisher=Shogakukan|access-date=October 19, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030513223124/http://www.s-book.com/plsql/sbc_book?isbn=4091261140|archive-date=May 13, 2003|language=ja}}

{{cite web|script-title=ja:戦え！梁山泊史上最強の弟子 / 5|url=http://www.s-book.com/plsql/sbc_book?isbn=4091261159|publisher=Shogakukan|access-date=October 19, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030513224804/http://www.s-book.com/plsql/sbc_book?isbn=4091261159|archive-date=May 13, 2003|language=ja}}

A {{Transliteration|ja|gaiden}} volume was released by Shogakukan on September 18, 2007.{{cite web|script-title=ja:史上最強のガイデン［松江名俊短編集］|url=http://comics.shogakukan.co.jp/book?isbn=9784091211903|publisher=Shogakukan|access-date=October 20, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171011135118/http://comics.shogakukan.co.jp/book?isbn=9784091211903|archive-date=October 11, 2017|language=ja}} A spin-off series, titled {{Nihongo|Shijō Saikyō no Deshi Ken'ichi Plus|史上最強の弟子ケンイチ プラス|Shijō Saikyō no Deshi Ken'ichi Purasu}} was serialized in Shōnen Sunday S in 2012 and collected in a volume by Shogakukan on September 18, 2012.{{cite web|last=Loo|first=Egan|title=KenIchi the Mightiest Disciple Manga Gets Spinoff|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2012-02-18/kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-manga-gets-spinoff|website=Anime News Network|access-date=November 10, 2018|date=February 18, 2012|archive-date=October 30, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181030142508/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2012-02-18/kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-manga-gets-spinoff|url-status=live}}

{{cite web|script-title=ja:田中ロミオ「AURA」のコミカライズ、サンデーSで開始|url=https://natalie.mu/comic/news/65100|website=Comic Natalie|publisher=Natasha, Inc.|access-date=October 19, 2020|language=ja|date=February 27, 2012|archive-date=October 27, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201027102956/https://natalie.mu/comic/news/65100|url-status=live}}

{{cite web|script-title=ja:週刊少年サンデー S (スーパー) 2012年6月号|url=https://www.neowing.co.jp/product/NEOBK-1236467|website=Neowing|access-date=October 20, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201020020446/https://www.neowing.co.jp/product/NEOBK-1236467|archive-date=October 20, 2020|language=ja|url-status=live}}

{{main|List of Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple episodes{{!}}List of Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple episodes}}

A 50-episode anime television series adaptation by TMS Entertainment was broadcast on TV Tokyo from October 8, 2006, to September 29, 2007.{{cite web|script-title=ja:史上最強の弟子 ケンイチ|url=https://mediaarts-db.bunka.go.jp/id/C12530|website=Media Arts Database|publisher=Agency for Cultural Affairs|access-date=May 28, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230528074448/https://mediaarts-db.bunka.go.jp/id/C12530|archive-date=May 28, 2023|language=ja|url-status=live}} The first opening theme for episodes 1–25 is "Be Strong", performed by Kana Yazumi, and the second opening theme for episodes 26–50 is {{Nihongo|"Yahhoo"|ヤッホー|Yahhō}}, performed by Diva × Diva (Miho Morikawa with Akira Asakura). The series' first ending theme for episodes 1–15 is {{Nihongo|"Kimi Ga Irukara"|君がいるから||{{lit.}} "Because You are There"}}, performed by Issei Eguchi. The second ending theme for episodes 16–25 is "Catch Your Dream", performed by Joanna Koike. The third ending theme for episodes 26–45 is "Run Over", performed by Joanna Koike. The fourth ending theme for episodes 46–49 is {{Nihongo|"Kokoro Kara no Message"|心からのメッセージ||{{lit.}} "A message from Heart"}} is performed by Sakura. The series' last episode uses the first opening theme "Be Strong" by Kana Yazumi as ending theme.

In North America the series was licensed by Funimation in May 2008. The series was broadcast on Funimation Channel.{{cite web|title=Programming|url=http://funimationchannel.com/programming.php|publisher=Funimation|access-date=November 14, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100725022657/http://funimationchannel.com/programming.php|archive-date=July 25, 2010}} The rights to the series expired in 2018.{{cite web|last=Ressler|first=Karen|title=Funimation's Case Closed, Kenichi the Mightiest Disciple Licenses Expire|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/daily-briefs/2018-05-04/funimation-case-closed-kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-licenses-expire/.131202|website=Anime News Network|access-date=May 29, 2018|date=May 4, 2018|archive-date=June 20, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620173335/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/daily-briefs/2018-05-04/funimation-case-closed-kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-licenses-expire/.131202|url-status=live}} In December 2020, Discotek Media announced that they had licensed the anime television and would have an upscale release slated for 2021;{{cite web|last=Pineda|first=Rafael Antonio|title=Discotek Licenses Kodocha, KenIchi, Daimos, Black Rock Shooter|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2020-12-14/discotek-licenses-kodocha-kenichi-daimos-black-rock-shooter/.167443|website=Anime News Network|access-date=December 15, 2020|date=December 14, 2020|archive-date=December 15, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201215030114/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2020-12-14/discotek-licenses-kodocha-kenichi-daimos-black-rock-shooter/.167443|url-status=live}} it was released on two Blu-ray Disc sets on August 31, 2021,{{cite web|last=Mateo|first=Alex|title=North American Anime, Manga Releases, August 29-September 4|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2021-08-31/north-american-anime-manga-releases-august-29-september-4/.176868|website=Anime News Network|access-date=May 28, 2023|date=August 31, 2021|archive-date=November 8, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211108132937/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2021-08-31/north-american-anime-manga-releases-august-29-september-4/.176868|url-status=live}} and January 25, 2022.{{cite web|last1=Mateo|first1=Alex|title=North American Anime, Manga Releases, January 23–29|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2022-01-25/north-american-anime-manga-releases-january-23-29/.181892|website=Anime News Network|access-date=May 28, 2023|date=January 25, 2022|archive-date=February 1, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220201192505/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2022-01-25/north-american-anime-manga-releases-january-23-29/.181892|url-status=live}} The series returned to Funimation's streaming service in May 2021.{{cite web|last=Mateo|first=Alex|title=KenIchi the Mightiest Disciple Anime Returns to Funimation|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2021-05-14/kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-anime-returns-to-funimation/.172790|website=Anime News Network|access-date=May 14, 2021|date=May 14, 2021|archive-date=May 14, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210514180531/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2021-05-14/kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-anime-returns-to-funimation/.172790|url-status=live}} Crunchyroll added the series to their catalog in September 2021.{{cite web|last=Chapman|first=Paul|title=Crunchyroll Catalog Trains Hard with Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple|url=https://www.crunchyroll.com/anime-news/2021/09/27/crunchyroll-catalog-trains-hard-with-kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple|website=Crunchyroll|access-date=December 18, 2021|date=September 27, 2021|archive-date=December 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211218094659/https://www.crunchyroll.com/anime-news/2021/09/27/crunchyroll-catalog-trains-hard-with-kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last=Mateo|first=Alex|title=Crunchyroll Adds Complete KenIchi the Mightiest Disciple Anime to Catalog|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2021-12-16/crunchyroll-adds-complete-kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-anime-to-catalog/.180679|website=Anime News Network|access-date=December 18, 2021|date=December 16, 2021|archive-date=December 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211218094657/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2021-12-16/crunchyroll-adds-complete-kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-anime-to-catalog/.180679|url-status=live}}

An 11-episode original video animation (OVA) series produced by Brain's Base started on March 14, 2012.{{cite web|last=Loo|first=Egan|title=KenIchi the Mightiest Disciple Manga Gets 2nd Video Anime|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2012-01-27/kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-manga-gets-2nd-video-anime|website=Anime News Network|access-date=August 19, 2019|date=January 27, 2012|archive-date=August 19, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190819050510/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2012-01-27/kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-manga-gets-2nd-video-anime|url-status=live}} The story continues from the Ragnarok Arc entering the Yomi arc. The second OVA episode, featuring later story in the Yomi arc, was released on June 18, 2012.{{cite web|last=Loo|first=Egan|title=2nd KenIchi Video Anime's 8-Minute Clip Streamed|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2012-05-22/2nd-kenichi-video-anime-8-minute-clip-streamed|website=Anime News Network|access-date=August 19, 2019|date=May 22, 2012|archive-date=August 19, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190819050512/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2012-05-22/2nd-kenichi-video-anime-8-minute-clip-streamed|url-status=live}} The third OVA episode was released on November 16, 2012.{{cite web|last=Loo|first=Egan|title=KenIchi the Mightiest Disciple Manga Gets 3rd Video Anime|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2012-09-20/kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-manga-gets-3rd-video-anime|website=Anime News Network|access-date=August 19, 2019|date=September 20, 2012|archive-date=January 3, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130103083117/http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2012-09-20/kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-manga-gets-3rd-video-anime|url-status=live}} The fourth and fifth OVA episodes were released on September 16, 2013.{{cite web|last=Loveridge|first=Lynzee|title=4th KenIchi the Mightiest Disciple Video Anime's Promo Streamed|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2013-09-04/4th-kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-video-anime-promo-streamed|website=Anime News Network|access-date=August 19, 2019|date=September 4, 2013|archive-date=August 19, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190819045010/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2013-09-04/4th-kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-video-anime-promo-streamed|url-status=live}} The sixth and seventh OVA episodes were released on November 18, 2013.{{cite web|last=Loo|first=Egan|title=5th Kenichi the Mightiest Disciple Video Anime Has 2 Episodes, Bonus|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2013-10-09/5th-kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-video-anime-has-2-episodes-bonus|website=Anime News Network|access-date=August 19, 2019|date=October 9, 2013|archive-date=November 13, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131113010211/http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2013-10-09/5th-kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-video-anime-has-2-episodes-bonus|url-status=live}} The eighth and ninth OVA episodes were released on February 14, 2014.{{cite web|last=Nelkin|first=Sarah|title=6th KenIchi the Mightiest Disciple Video Anime's Promo Streamed|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2014-02-04/6th-kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-video-anime-promo-streamed|website=Anime News Network|access-date=August 19, 2019|date=February 4, 2014|archive-date=July 23, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190723154455/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2014-02-04/6th-kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-video-anime-promo-streamed|url-status=live}} The 10th and 11th OVA episodes were released on May 16, 2014.{{cite web|last=Sherman|first=Jennifer|title=Kenichi the Mightiest Disciple's 7th Video Anime Listed by Retailer|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2014-03-28/kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-7th-video-anime-listed-by-retailer|website=Anime News Network|access-date=August 19, 2019|date=March 28, 2014|archive-date=July 14, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190714112113/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2014-03-28/kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-7th-video-anime-listed-by-retailer|url-status=live}}{{cite web|script-title=ja:「弟子ケンイチ」初のガイド本、達人たち秘伝の技が流出|url=http://natalie.mu/comic/news/116760|website=Comic Natalie|publisher=Natasha, Inc.|access-date=August 19, 2019|language=ja|date=May 16, 2014|archive-date=August 19, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190819045012/https://natalie.mu/comic/news/116760|url-status=live}} The main cast for the OVA series is the same from those of the anime series except for Rie Kugimiya who replaced Tomoko Kawakami as Miu and Yuzuru Fujimoto who replaced Hiroshi Arikawa as her grandfather Hayato.{{cite web|last=Loo|first=Egan|title=KenIchi Video Anime Project's 1st 7 Minutes Streamed|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2012-02-15/kenichi-video-anime-project-1st-7-minutes-streamed|website=Anime News Network|access-date=August 19, 2019|date=February 15, 2012|archive-date=August 19, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190819045007/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2012-02-15/kenichi-video-anime-project-1st-7-minutes-streamed|url-status=live}} The episodes aired in 2014 on Tokyo MX and BS11, with the title {{Nihongo|Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple – The Attack of Darkness|史上最強の弟子ケンイチ 闇の襲撃|Shijō Saikyō no Deshi Ken'ichi Yami no Shūgeki}}.{{cite web|script-title=ja:「史上最強の弟子ケンイチ 闇の襲撃」4月より放送開始 「週刊少年サンデー」のヒットマンガ|url=https://animeanime.jp/article/2014/03/05/17703.html|website=animeanime.jp|access-date=October 20, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140305205900/https://animeanime.jp/article/2014/03/05/17703.html|archive-date=March 5, 2014|language=ja|date=March 5, 2014|url-status=live}} Iori Nomizu performed the opening theme "Wish" (for episodes 4–9) and the ending themes "Glory Days" (for episodes 1–3) and "Breathless" (for episodes 4–9). During its television broadcast, the series featured the opening theme "Higher Ground", performed by Tomokazu Seki, and the same original second ending theme "Breathless", by Iori Nomizu.{{cite web|script-title=ja:史上最強の弟子ケンイチ 闇の襲撃|url=https://www.bs11.jp/anime/post-184/|publisher=BS11|access-date=October 20, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201020003313/https://www.bs11.jp/anime/post-184/|archive-date=October 20, 2020|language=ja|url-status=live}}

In January 2024, Discotek Media announced that they had licensed the OVA, and is set to be released on a Blu-ray set with an English dub on May 28 of the same year.{{cite web|last=Pineda|first=Rafael|title=Discotek Licenses 1997 Berserk Anime, Urusei Yatsura OVAs, Mazinkaiser, More|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2024-01-08/discotek-licenses-1997-berserk-anime-urusei-yatsura-ovas-mazinkaiser-more/.206265|website=Anime News Network|access-date=January 9, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109044752/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2024-01-08/discotek-licenses-1997-berserk-anime-urusei-yatsura-ovas-mazinkaiser-more/.206265|archive-date=January 9, 2024|date=January 8, 2024|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Kenichi the Mightiest Disciple – The Attack of Darkness OVA Series – Blu-ray|url=https://store.crunchyroll.com/products/kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-the-attack-of-darkness-ova-series-blu-ray-875707039796.html|publisher=Crunchyroll Store|access-date=April 3, 2024|archive-url=https://archive.today/20240403173412/https://store.crunchyroll.com/products/kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-the-attack-of-darkness-ova-series-blu-ray-875707039796.html|archive-date=April 3, 2024|url-status=live}}

On March 15, 2007, Capcom released the series' first game, Shijō Saikyō no Deshi Ken'ichi: Gekitō! Ragnarok Hachikengō, exclusively on the PlayStation 2.{{cite web|script-title=ja:史上最強の弟子ケンイチ 激闘!ラグナレク八拳豪|url=https://www.jp.playstation.com/software/title/slpm66698.html|publisher=PlayStation|access-date=October 20, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070220201616/https://www.jp.playstation.com/software/title/slpm66698.html|archive-date=February 20, 2007|language=ja}} The game was developed with Eighting.{{cite web|script-title=ja:史上最強の弟子ケンイチ 激闘！ラグナレク八拳豪|url=https://www.8ing.co.jp/titles/kenichi/|publisher=Eighting|access-date=April 10, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240410092636/https://www.8ing.co.jp/titles/kenichi/|archive-date=April 10, 2024|language=ja|url-status=live}}

That same year, another crossover game, Sunday vs Magazine: Shūketsu! Chōjō Daikessen for the PlayStation Portable, also featured Kenichi and related characters.

Kenichi Shirahama appeared in Weekly Shōnen Sunday and Weekly Shōnen Magazine 2009 crossover game Sunday vs Magazine: Shūketsu! Chōjō Daikessen.{{cite web|title=Konami Mashes Manga Characters Together For PSP Fighter|url=https://www.siliconera.com/konami-mashes-manga-characters-together-for-psp-fighter/|website=Siliconera|access-date=January 24, 2023|date=January 29, 2009|archive-date=January 24, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230124035529/https://www.siliconera.com/konami-mashes-manga-characters-together-for-psp-fighter/|url-status=live}} Characters from the series also appeared in another crossover game of the same magazine, Shōnen Sunday & Shōnen Magazine White Comic, also released in 2009 for Nintendo DS.{{cite web|script-title=ja:少年サンデー＆少年マガジン WHITE COMIC [ホワイトコミック]|url=http://www.konami.jp/products/sunmaga_comic/info.html|publisher=Konami|access-date=October 19, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100324202327/http://www.konami.jp/products/sunmaga_comic/info.html|archive-date=March 24, 2010|language=ja}}

By February 2012, the manga had over 12 million copies in circulation.{{cite web|script-title=ja:史上最強の弟子ケンイチ：アニメ続編をコミックス付録DVDで発売|url=https://mantan-web.jp/article/20120201dog00m200034000c.html|website=Mantan Web|access-date=October 20, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170729031906/https://mantan-web.jp/article/20120201dog00m200034000c.html|archive-date=July 29, 2017|language=ja|date=February 1, 2012|url-status=live}}

Bamboo Dong of Anime News Network, in a negative review of the first season (part one), criticized the series for its repeatability and its presentation as a show that "torn between being a pointless brawl show with fights every episode, and being a semi-legitimate martial arts show", adding that the teaching and explanations of the techniques used in the series are "half-assed" and that other shows like Naruto explain how their moves work in a better way, despite that "those aren't even real". Dong concluded: "I really hope there's tons of kids out there right now who are loving this show. Maybe tons of crybabies who need that extra nudge to learn how to get some self-confidence, because then I'd feel like this show did some good. It's also because I can't imagine any grown man or woman enjoying this show, because it's a big ol' dud".{{cite web|last=Dong|first=Bamboo|title=Big Trouble in Little Tokyo - Shelf Life|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/shelf-life/2009-03-09|website=Anime News Network|access-date=April 24, 2021|date=March 9, 2009|archive-date=January 25, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210125134448/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/shelf-life/2009-03-09|url-status=live}} In a more positive review of the first season (part two), Bamboo Dong enjoyed the episodes more focused on Kenichi's developing his fighting ability than the early episodes focused on his transformation "from a wimp into a determined martial arts student", as the conflicts are paced more naturally throughout the show. Dong said that the female fanservice of the series is at appropriate levels and that despite it having "leering men and bouncing breasts", he said that Miu is "a great female protagonist, and a good role model. She doesn't take crap from any of the men in the dojo, and she's kind to everyone around her". Dong concluded: KenIchi the Mightiest Disciple is a great choice for people who devour shows like Naruto and Bleach. They're not my cup of tea, but they're well-matched in terms of action and fast-paced storytelling. The fighting in this series is slightly more grounded in reality, too, so it's easier to relate to than throwing fireballs. If you enjoy Shonen Jump-type shows, you should definitely check this out".{{cite web|last=Dong|first=Bamboo|title=Fists of Fury - Shelf Life|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/shelf-life/2009-10-05#kenichi|website=Anime News Network|access-date=April 24, 2021|date=October 5, 2009|archive-date=April 24, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210424091530/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/shelf-life/2009-10-05#kenichi|url-status=live}}

Reviewing the first season (part one), Theron Martin of Anime News Network compared the series to the 1984 martial arts film The Karate Kid, noting that the only major difference between the two is that Kenichi "takes itself far less seriously", adding that it is a crucial difference because "much of what goes on in the series is entirely too ridiculous to be taken seriously", although, he praised it for how it handles the overall martial arts theme and the minutiae of martial arts basics that too often get overlooked in many martial arts-related anime. Martin concluded: "The first quarter of KtMD is hardly great anime viewing, as it has an annoying start and some irksome habits, but eventually it becomes surprisingly entertaining in its sampling of various forms of martial arts and the tactics involved in using them efficiently. It's cheesy and often silly, but fun".{{cite web|last=Martin|first=Theron|title=KenIchi the Mightiest Disciple DVD Season 1 Part 1 - Review|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/review/kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple/dvd-season-1|website=Anime News Network|access-date=April 24, 2021|date=May 24, 2009|archive-date=July 11, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170711080128/http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/review/kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple/dvd-season-1|url-status=live}}

In his review of the series' first season (part one), Davey C. Jones of Active Anime made positive comments about the series, praising it for its fight scenes and humor, adding that it "has everything. It has buxom babes with lethal skills and one hilarious hormonal and all around great guy as the main character", ultimately calling it "the perfect one-two punch of comedy and martial arts action!".{{cite web|last=Jones|first=Davey C.|title=Kenichi The Mightiest Disciple Season 1 Part One|url=http://activeanime.com/html/2009/04/03/kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-season-1-part-one/|website=Active Anime|access-date=April 24, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170203014519/http://activeanime.com/html/2009/04/03/kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-season-1-part-one/|archive-date=February 3, 2017|date=April 3, 2009}} In another review of the second season (part two), Jones also wrote: "Kenichi is the greatest blend of comedy and martial arts since Ranma! You’ve got to see it to believe it! Adrenalin driven martial arts action and big laughs combine for a knockout in anime fun!".{{cite web|last=Jones|first=Davey C.|title=Kenichi The Mightiest Disciple Season 2 Part Two|url=http://activeanime.com/html/2010/05/24/kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-season-2-part-two-advance-review/|website=Active Anime|access-date=April 24, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160412113707/http://activeanime.com/html/2010/05/24/kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple-season-2-part-two-advance-review/|archive-date=April 12, 2016|date=May 24, 2010}}

In a review of the first season (part one), C.M. Brendelson of Otaku USA described Kenichi as "the stereotypical Peter Parker-esque high school student – skinny, klutzy, and social awkward" and Miu as "incredibly curvaceous for a teenage girl and has a charming face that never quits" and a "badass martial arts master". In comparing the series to other martial arts titles, like Naruto or Baki the Grappler, Brendelson wrote that the action scenes of the series focuses on Kenichi "getting his ass-kicked and then somehow succeeding after utilizing a freshly learned martial arts technique", and that rather than wanting to always "be the best", Kenchi "really just wants to protect those around him". Regarding the series' fanservice, Brendelson said that it encompasses so much of the action displayed on the screen, but that it is totally within this show’s parameters and that never once does it detract from the main story arc. Brendelson concluded: "The show certainly isn’t for everyone, but if you enjoy a light-hearted romp with a few action sequences thrown in, Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple may be just up your alley".{{cite web|last=Brendelson|first=C.M.|title=Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple|url=https://otakuusamagazine.com/kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple/|website=Otaku USA|access-date=April 24, 2021|archive-url=https://archive.today/20210424080739/https://otakuusamagazine.com/kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple/|archive-date=April 24, 2021|date=August 2, 2009|url-status=live}}

Allen Moody of THEM Anime Reviews called the titular character "the perfect character for audience identification", due to his determination and high principles, also making positive comments about the series' characters and actions scenes, however, he criticized it for some "maudlin melodrama" scenes continuing unabated into the midst of a fight.{{cite web|last=Moody|first=Allen|title=Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple|url=https://www.themanime.org/viewreview.php?id=1432|website=THEM Anime Reviews|access-date=April 24, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120516205321/https://www.themanime.org/viewreview.php?id=1432|archive-date=May 16, 2012|date=May 14, 2012|url-status=live}}

• Waza no Tabibito, another manga by the same author
• Tokiwa Kitareri!!, another manga series by the same author
• Kimi wa 008, another manga series by the same author

{{notelist}}

{{Reflist}}

• {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140704163845/http://websunday.net/rensai/kenichi/|title=Official manga website at Web Sunday}} {{in lang|ja}}
• {{Official website|http://www.tv-tokyo.co.jp/anime/kenichi|Official anime website at TV Tokyo}} {{in lang|ja}}
• {{Official website|http://www.tms-e.com/tv_movie/kenichi/index.html|Official anime website at TMS Entertainment}} {{in lang|ja}}
• {{Official website|http://www.m-bros.net/~wazadepa/index.html|Official Syun Matsuena site}} {{in lang|ja}}
• {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170503121704/https://www.funimation.com/shows/kenichi-the-mightiest-disciple/|title=Official anime website at Funimation}}
• {{Anime News Network|manga|6863|title=Shijō Saikyō no Deshi Ken'ichi}}

{{Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple}}

{{Weekly Shōnen Sunday - 2000–2009}}

{{Shōnen Sunday Super}}

{{TMS Entertainment}}

{{Brain's Base}}

Category:2007 Japanese television series endings

Category:2012 anime OVAs

Category:Adventure anime and manga

Category:Anime series based on manga

Category:Brain's Base

Category:Comedy anime and manga

Category:Funimation

Category:Karate in anime and manga

Category:Martial arts anime and manga

Category:Muse Communication

Category:Shogakukan manga

Category:Shōnen manga

Category:TMS Entertainment

Category:TV Tokyo original programming