Baki's Return: A New Chapter in 2026
Netflix has officially announced the exclusive global launch of the anime "Baki-Dou" in 2026. This is the fourth installment in the extensive "Baki" manga and anime franchise. Based on the fourth volume of Keisuke Itagaki's works, "Baki-Dou" introduces a formidable new challenge for Baki Hanma: the resurrection of the legendary warrior Miyamoto Musashi.
The trailer and conceptual art have already generated significant excitement, showcasing a confrontation that promises to be epic and marks a new era for the franchise, which has already sold over 100 million copies in manga. The production is handled by TMS Entertainment, the same studio that worked on previous animated adaptations.
What is Baki-Dou About? A Clash Between Eras
"Baki-Dou" centers on a new challenge for Baki and his fellow fighters following the climax of the father-son confrontation against Yujiro Hanma. The core of the story revolves around the resurrection of Miyamoto Musashi, considered Japan's greatest swordsman, through a combination of cloning technology and spiritualism.
The plot promises a clash between the skills of modern fighters like Baki, Doppo Orochi, Jack Hanma, and Kaoru Hanayama against the ancient techniques of the legendary samurai. This unprecedented intergenerational showdown has created great anticipation. The trailer already hints at Musashi's speed and power, suggesting a real threat to Baki and his allies.
The Legacy of Baki: A Complete Guide to the Saga
The "Baki" saga is an expansive universe with multiple adaptations and sequels. Starting in 1991 with "Grappler Baki", the series has evolved through various installments, including "Hanma Baki" and the current "Baki Rahen". Each manga explores different aspects of the world of martial arts and underground tournaments.
For those new to the series, the sheer amount of content can be overwhelming. Fortunately, "Baki" has a relatively clear chronology. The Netflix adaptation, "Baki Hanma" (2018), continues the story from the original 2001 series, although you don't need to watch the previous shows to enjoy it.
For those who want to watch the series in order, follow this sequence:
- Baki The Grappler: The Ultimate Fighter
- Baki The Grappler – Season 1: Kid Saga/Underground Arena Saga
- Baki The Grappler – Season 2: Maximum Tournament Saga
- Baki: Most Evil Death Row Convicts Special Anime
- Baki – Season 1: Most Evil Death Row Convicts Saga
- Baki – Season 2: Great Chinese Challenge Saga/Godlike Clash of the Kids Saga
- Baki Hanma: Son of Ogre - Season 1: Combat Shadow Fighting Saga/Great Prison Battle Saga
- Baki Hanma: Son of Ogre - Season 2: Pickle Wars Saga/The Father VS Son Saga
- Baki Hanma VS Kengan Ashura
- Baki-Dou (Release date to be determined)
