Top 10 Hero vs Hero Anime Fights

“Fairy Tail” (2009-19)

When it comes to rivalries, the relationship between Natsu and Gray is especially volatile. Eager to fight one another at the slightest provocation, these two even went as far as to fight for three straight days with little regard for their surroundings. While they usually limit themselves to simple roughhousing, things took a turn for the worst during the final arc. After Gray discovers that Natsu is really the demon E.N.D., and with Natsu obsessively driven to ensure Zeref’s demise, they abandon all restraint and proceed to fight one another to the death. If it weren’t for the intervention of Erza, things could have ended in tragedy for two of Fairy Tail’s brightest stars.

“Fullmetal Alchemist” (2003-04)

While not as popular as “Brotherhood,” the original “Fullmetal Alchemist” anime features an amazing fight that it’s reboot is sorely lacking. While investigating a lead on Tim Marcoh and the Philosopher’s Stone, Edward challenges Colonel Mustang to a duel. In this classic battle of young prodigy versus experienced veteran, Ed finds himself on the defensive after being overwhelmed by the power of Mustang’s flame alchemy. Their clash results in the destruction of the entire battlefield, with Ed even going as far as to pull out a giant cannon. Despite ending in a technical draw, it was nevertheless satisfying to see these two alchemic legends duke it out. .

“Sengoku Basara: Samurai Kings” (2009-10)

In an era where war between enemy clans is commonplace, it’s only natural for rivalries to be born. Such is the case between these two samurai kings. While looking to attack the leader of the Uesugi clan, both Yukimura and Masamaune meet for the very first time. With neither warrior refusing to back down from their target, they are left with no other option but to fight. What follows are a series of intense battles that defy historical accuracy. As enjoyable as it is watching them put aside their differences to battle enemies such as Oda Nobunaga, there is nothing quite like watching a fight between watching the spear user take on the one eyed dragon.

“Rurouni Kenshin” (1996-98)

No matter how fast someone might try to run, the past always finds a way of catching up to them. After being tracked down by Hajime Saito, a former Shinsengumi Captain, Kenshin is forced into crossing swords with his hated rival. While the battle is only meant to test Kenshin, Hajime quickly loses sight of his mission after he causes Kenshin to revert back into the legendary assassin known as Battousai The Manslayer. That extra layer of darkness really adds depth to what would be just another ronin showdown, knowing even Kenshin’s noble heart is still capable of being corrupted.

“Black Clover” (2017-)

As the Clover Kingdom’s Royal Knight’s Selection Exam reaches its conclusion, it all comes down to one final battle between two young prodigies. The Golden Dawn’s rising star versus the young captain of the Aqua Deer. It may not be a battle to the death, but nevertheless it’s an unforgettable experience that delivers some of the best animation the series has to offer. This battle is also memorable for featuring the debut of Yuno’s Spirit Dive spell, once again putting him a step ahead of Asta. The whole thing is a work of art in every sense of the word, making the whole arc truly worthwhile!

“The Seven Deadly Sins” (2014-)

They may be from two different worlds, but that doesn’t stop these sins from punching each other senseless. In the friendliest ways possible, of course. With Meliodas being a member of the demon race and Ban being an immortal, they possess power that far surpasses human limits. Their final fight during the fighting festival proves the perfect opportunity to showcase their strength, and while Ban’s ability to drain his foe’s stamina allowed him to hold his ground, the fox ultimately fell short when Meliodas sent him hurtling into a mountain.

“Fire Force” (2019-)

Since their academy days, Shinra and Arthur have always fought to determine whether heroes or knights are superior, though this particular tussle had a lot more on the line than their fantasies. After Shinra is possessed by the First Pillar, Arthur steps in to knock him back to his senses. By beating the shit out him, Arthur is able to reach out to Shinra and remind him of who he is. Thus, allowing the Devil to reject the Pillar and regain control. Although Arthur may not be the brightest person in the room, there is no better rival to fight alongside with, than the self-proclaimed Knight King. If you can get past his delusions, that is.

“One Punch Man” (2015-19)

Pupils facing their masters are dime a dozen in anime, but rarely are they this explosive.
Eager to test the limits of Saitama’s power, Genos challenges him to a battle. Along with his combat skills, Genos has a whole arsenal of cybernetic weapons, including supersonic jets and high-tech incinerator cannons. Although the battle is one of the longest in Saitama’s career, he barely breaks a sweat as Genos fails to land a single blow, concluding with him getting just a peak at the One Punch Man’s truth strength. There are some chasms you just can’t cross.

“One Piece” (1997-)

The Straw Hat’s duel against the long-nosed teller of tales is one One Piece’s most emotionally draining scenes to date. After learning that their ship the Merry Go has reached her limit, Luffy decides to get a new ship, which infuriates Usopp to the point where he leaves the crew and challenges his captain. Despite knowing he can’t win, Usopp refuses to back down and manages to not only hold his own against Luffy, but also injure him. In the end, his efforts prove futile. Watching this surrogate family tear itself apart is quite a sight to behold, and even though Luffy won, it's clear that this battle has no victors.

“My Hero Academia” (2016-)

Following on from their initial bout during their early days at U.A High, fans were left eagerly awaiting for the fated rematch between these two. Frustrated by Midoriya’s growth and close connection to his idol All Might, Bakugo challenges him once again. Although initially reluctant, the successor of One for All accepts after Bakugo reveals the guilt he feels for causing All Might’s retirement by letting himself get captured by the League of Villains. In an amazing and visceral display of no holds bar combat, Midoriya and Bakugo convey their true feelings through their fists and demonstrate just how far they’ve grown not just as heroes, but as true rivals, making it one of the shouenn’s most pivotal moments!