Best Anime Underdog Stories

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Less favored contenders often differ in their starting point. They lack initial advantage or pace. They aren’t predestined, groomed, or genetically endowed with greatness. The world typically overlooks them until they compel it to take notice. This kind of narrative resonates strongly within the realm of anime as it embodies a formidable strength that seems genuinely earned. These characters flourish because they strive to avoid being overshadowed.

Their efforts in overcoming challenges outshine their abilities, which makes them inspiring figures. Each individual mentioned here has an equally strong mix of perseverance and tenacity. These tales are incredibly moving, being constructed on a foundation of determination, hardship, and the gradual progression towards something more significant and meaningful.

These are the the best anime underdog stories!

10.
Ippo Makunouchi – Hajime no Ippo

Boxing Isn’t the Goal

Before Ippo even threw his initial punch, he had already been viciously attacked behind the school. At that time, none of his peers or even himself considered him a fighter. However, the notion of becoming one didn’t surface until a professional boxer rescued him from trouble and handed him a pair of gloves.

In a nutshell, that crucial instant transforms into the essence. Ippo, devoid of any techniques or self-assurance, persists in attending. Quietly, he endures beyond his boundaries, striving for success with no guarantee of triumph.

He stands alone, yet unyielding, confronting the world, battle upon battle. Despite his body giving out, he persists in moving forward, a testament to resilience and determination.

9.
Tanjiro Kamado – Demon Slayer

Kindness Survives the Blood

In an instant, my world crumbles, leaving me shattered and alone. My family, once vibrant and full of life, has vanished. My beloved sister is no longer the girl I knew – she’s transformed into something else entirely. Plunged into a realm of warriors, I find myself surrounded by brutality. Yet, amidst this harsh reality, compassion remains my constant companion, guiding me through the darkest corners.

In this rephrased version, the essence of the original text is maintained while making it more accessible and natural:

Tanjiro perceives the pain within the beings others call monsters. This empathetic sensitivity never leads to doubt but instead strengthens him, honing his understanding into a sharp edge.

His very being alters the landscape of the Demon Slayer realm, not by physical might, but through a persistent memory and empathy that remains undiminished, extending even towards the demons themselves.

8.
Subaru Natsuki – Re:Zero

Dying Is the Easy Part

In a new realm devoid of power and expertise, Subaru finds himself stranded. The locals are puzzled by his presence, and many lose interest following their initial encounter. Despite his persistent efforts to aid them, each action seems to propel him further into a quagmire of failure.

His unique ability lies in rewinding time until just before death occurs. Yet, this talent swiftly transforms into a burden. Each reset triggers memories of his past, including the cries of agony, blunders, heartbreaks, and these painful memories linger.

In Re:Zero, Subaru undergoes continuous transformations that aren’t quantifiable. Each reset introduces fresh elements. In the end, his unwavering determination to persevere becomes the defining aspect of his strength.

7.
Asta – Black Clover

No Magic, Just Movement

In a realm where magic reigns supreme, Asta finds himself bereft of such power. Yet, he trains tirelessly as though his life hinges on it because, indeed, it does. He’s not seeking triumph through vanity, but rather to validate his place in this world that has seemingly shunned him.

Each instance when an aristocrat sneers at him or a peer doubts him, Asta responds with unbridled determination. He wields his body as a weapon, and his demeanor serves as armor.

The louder someone speaks, the more determined and resolute their purpose appears to be. He’s unwilling to pause for authorization or validation. Instead, he’s propelled by unwavering faith in his own destiny, despite others sharing this belief.

6.
Yuji Itadori – Jujutsu Kaisen

The Decision That Changed Everything

Yuji steps into the realm of jujutsu sorcery without any prior knowledge or forewarning. He consumes an item that should have been fatal to him, not out of comprehension of its implications, but because someone in close proximity was in peril. This act reflects the typical mindset often found in shonen manga protagonists.

After that point, he no longer possesses control over his body. Surrounded by seasoned individuals and gifted prodigies, he strives not to outdo them but rather to maintain pace with them. Yet, at times, even this effort falls short.

The source of his power lies in his clear understanding, and this awareness never leaves him. Even as his abilities evolve, the sense of urgency remains constant, driving him to act swiftly, even when faced with peril without any support or reinforcements.

5.
Eren Yeager – Attack on Titan

Anger Has Its Own Shape

As a young boy, Eren witnesses the annihilation of his homeland by Titans. This tragic event claims the life of his mother before his eyes. Instead of succumbing to fear or surrendering, he is determined to find a means to resist and battle against them.

Training isn’t instinctive for him. The higher-ups don’t have faith in him. With mere determination as his guide, he struggles to make it through life. Once he acquires power, it only raises more queries than provides solutions.

Eren doesn’t demand rescue or recognition, but rather desires liberty. This concept is deeply ingrained in him even before he understands the true price of freedom.

4.
Mob – Mob Psycho 100

Holding Back Can Be Stronger

In every place he steps foot, it’s as if the most powerful individual has arrived. He possesses the ability to demolish structures with just his thoughts. However, this extraordinary prowess does nothing to bolster his self-assurance or make him feel more like a typical person.

He generally refrains from employing his powers except when absolutely necessary. Preferring a different approach, he becomes part of a fitness group and endeavors to know himself better. His objective is to evolve while avoiding transforming into someone he isn’t comfortable with.

It’s truly commendable. I fear we might be gradually losing something precious like this in today’s world. Empathy, born out of strength, is a genuine display of power. It’s the real strength that we should cherish.

When Mob ultimately cracks, it doesn’t feel like triumph; instead, it seems like a premonition. The struggle he experiences trying to maintain control against his emotions is the true battle portrayed in his narrative.

3.
Rock Lee – Naruto

When Talent Doesn’t Show Up

Rock Lee wasn’t naturally blessed with the skills typical for a ninja, as he lacks the ability to mold chakra like his peers. However, this constraint turns into an all-consuming passion for him.

He pushes himself to the point of bone breaks in his training. He jogs even when others are chuckling, persisting with each step. His mentor has faith in him, but it’s Lee’s self-confidence that propels his advancement. When he strides into the test environment, discarding his weights, the world witnesses the power of dedication.

Lee’s goal isn’t about making others wrong, but rather about validating his own beliefs. This conviction carries a stronger impact than the most powerful ninja techniques like the Rasengan or Chidori.

2.
Senku Ishigami – Dr. Stone

Knowledge Becomes the Edge

In a world where everything has been petrified, Senku finds himself awakening with nothing but his mind as a tool. Alone, friendless, and seemingly powerless, he possesses an exceptional resource: the knowledge stored in his memory and the limitless potential of his imagination.

As a gamer, I’m all about harnessing the power of science to resurrect the essence of fire, transparency like glass, energy pulsating through me as electricity, and reconnecting the world with communication. Unlike those who clash for dominance over land, my battle is one of knowledge restoration.

His triumphs stem from his patience, strategic thinking, and investigative nature. Unlike others who rush into battle, he prefers to construct his weapons first, thus often being overlooked as an underestimated contender by many.

1.
Ash Ketchum – Pokemon

Losing Never Stops the Run

For quite some time, Ash hasn’t clinched the major tournament. Instead, he constantly moves from one location to another, forming new partnerships and beginning anew with each shift. Meanwhile, his competitors are often anchored by tradition, while many of his opponents have years of experience under their belts.

Trust is essential to Ash. Regardless of the absence of assurances, he enters conflicts and consistently emerges victorious by forging bonds and relying on his intuition. As circumstances shift, Ash remains unyielding.

When Ash Ketchum ultimately claims the champion title, it feels more like a catharsis than a reward. Each defeat, every initial clumsy battle, every instance when victory seemed out of reach – they all culminate in that triumphant moment. Despite the moral ambiguity surrounding animal combat, Ash’s accomplishments remain remarkable achievements.

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2025-04-23 01:10