Bleach: Why did Grimmjow Join Ichigo’s Group?

Bleach: Why did Grimmjow Join Ichigo's Group?

Key Takeaways

  • Grimmjow returns, now on Ichigo’s side, driven by loyalty to Hueco Mundo.
  • Grimmjow wants to protect his territory from Quincy, aligning his goals with Soul Reapers.
  • Urahara likely brokered Grimmjow’s return for a rematch against Ichigo to gain an ally.

As a gamer with over two decades of anime and manga under my belt, I can confidently say that the return of Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez in Bleach’s Thousand-Year Blood War is nothing short of exhilarating! This fan-favorite villain’s transformation from a fierce Espada to an ally for Ichigo is a testament to the complexity of characters in this series.


In the recently released installment of “Bleach’s Thousand-Year Blood War,” fan-adored character Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez makes his reappearance, but with a shocking twist: he has aligned himself with Ichigo’s adversaries, the Arrancar. The initial suggestion that Grimmjow might return came during Part One when an enigmatic figure assassinated Sternritter J—Quilge Opie. Later, in episode eight, fans detected a familiar voice and caught a glimpse of a well-known design. However, they had to endure more suspense before finally witnessing the comeback of their beloved “Bleach” antagonist.

As a dedicated fan, I can’t help but ponder over the intriguing turn of events as he officially re-joins our heroes’ ranks alongside Riruka, Yukio, and the other Fullbringers. Among them is also his companion, Nelliel. It’s fascinating to consider what could have driven such a wild and bestial character to align with the righteous side of this world.

Grimmjow’s Territory in Danger

Hueco Mundo is Threatened

Grimmjow, under the command of Queen Tier Harribel and Nelliel Tu Odelschwank, is known for his aggressive and contentious behavior, yet they acknowledge a glimmer of honor within him that can be persuaded. Kisuke Urahara has observed this trait in Grimmjow as well, recognizing him as a former Espada. Much like a wolf or lion, Grimmjow possesses an inherent desire to safeguard his territory. It’s fitting that his Hollow form resembles a panther, reflecting this instinct. Despite being extremely hostile, Grimmjow is fiercely protective of his hometown, Hueco Mundo. Grimmjow didn’t kill Quilge to save Ichigo’s friends but rather, to defend his home, as the Quincy had invaded it and imprisoned Queen Harribel.

Regardless if you’re human, Shinigami, or Arrancar, anyone who appears to undervalue my strength will find themselves annihilated!

In response to a new danger that aims to rule over all worlds, Grimmjow feels an instinctual need to safeguard what belongs to him. Although he holds no attachment towards the Soul Society or the World of the Living, he coincidentally shares the same objective with the Soul Reapers. Yhwach and the Quincy pose a threat that could annihilate the three realms, compelling Grimmjow to engage in battle to preserve his domain, Hueco Mundo. He maintains no loyalty towards Ichigo or the Soul Society; instead, he is solely concerned with defending his territory just as a lion would its pride.

Grimmjow’s Fated Rematch

A Score to Settle

In the Arrancar Arc, Grimmjow emerges as a formidable adversary for Ichigo. He served as the main antagonist’s representative during this story arc. Grimmjow engaged Ichigo in combat on three separate occasions. At one critical juncture in the conflict, he turned against his own group to challenge Ichigo in a life-or-death battle. Grimmjow harbors an intense desire to demonstrate his superiority over others, to be recognized as the strongest and the ruler. For him, Ichigo represented the last hurdle on his path to power, someone he felt an innate compulsion to vanquish. After their encounter, Grimmjow was spared by Ichigo’s substitute soul reaper, and since then, Grimmjow has been determined to defeat him.

  • Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez is the former Sexta (6th) Espada.
  • He wields the Zanpakutou named Pantera (Panther) with the release command “Grind”.
  • He once had a Fracción (Arrancar underlings) named Shawlong, Edrad, Nakeem, Yylfordt, and Di Roy.
  • He’s one of the two Espada that survived the war, the other being Queen Tier Harribel.

It’s not publicly known what exact terms Kisuke Urahara struck with Grimmjow, but from Grimmjow’s statements, it seems the deal may center around setting up another battle between him and Ichigo. Grimmjow’s ambition to be recognized as the strongest in Hueco Mundo is deeply connected to his rivalry with Ichigo. After all, Grimmjow hasn’t forgotten his loss against Ichigo during the Arrancar Arc, and if Hueco Mundo no longer exists, where would he challenge Ichigo?

If Hueco Mundo is gone…Where am I supposed to kill you?

Given Kisuke Urahara’s shady dealings and schemes, it makes sense that he would offer Grimmjow a rematch with Ichigo, since it provides an opportunity for him to engage his longtime rival while also securing a powerful ally. Kisuke is not above making questionable choices if they serve his strategic interests. The Espada, who is typically defiant, seems to have been drawn into the war against the Quincy by the prospect of defending his territory and confronting his destined adversary.

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2024-11-22 00:33