Crunchyroll has exciting news for anime fans as they have added the classic Ashita no Joe anime to their streaming platform. The anime is based on the popular boxing manga by Asao Takamori and Tetsuya Chiba. Fans in North America, Central America, and South America can enjoy the first season starting on Thursday, with the second season set to launch on December 3.
For those unfamiliar with Ashita no Joe, the story follows Joe Yabuki, an orphan from the Tokyo slums who learns to box under the guidance of a former boxer. The manga originally ran in Weekly Shōnen Magazine from 1968 to 1973 and has since become a cultural phenomenon in Japan. The series has inspired multiple adaptations, including two television anime series, two anime films, and a live-action film.
Kodansha USA will also be releasing the manga in English for the first time under the title “Ashita no Joe: Fighting for Tomorrow.” The manga will be available physically in eight oversized hardcover volumes and digitally, starting on December 24. This release marks a significant milestone for fans who have been eagerly awaiting an official English translation of this iconic series.
The influence of Ashita no Joe on the sports and shonen manga genres cannot be overstated, with its impact still being felt in modern series like Hajime no Ippo. The story’s legacy continues with the success of the 2018 anime reimagining, Megalobox, and its sequel series, Megalobox 2: Nomad.
Overall, the addition of Ashita no Joe to Crunchyroll’s lineup is a fantastic opportunity for both longtime fans of the series and newcomers to experience this timeless classic. Be sure to mark your calendars for the premiere dates and get ready to dive into the world of boxing with Joe Yabuki.
