Shonen Jump’s New Champions: The Successors to Jujutsu Kaisen and My Hero Academia Are Getting Their Anime

The landscape of shonen anime is on the brink of a new era. With the monumental runs of Jujutsu Kaisen and My Hero Academia reaching their climactic conclusions, a significant power vacuum has emerged in Weekly Shonen Jump’s flagship lineup. While no single series can truly fill the shoes of these cultural phenomena, the magazine has found two compelling new champions ready to take the mantle. As confirmed by recent announcements and industry reports, two highly-acclaimed manga sensations, Kagurabachi and Gachiakuta, are set to receive their anime adaptations soon, promising to usher in the next generation of battle shonen with their distinct tones and high-stakes narratives.

The intense anticipation for these adaptations is a testament to their overwhelming success in the manga world. Both series have garnered a massive following and critical acclaim, with fans and critics alike praising their compelling storytelling, dynamic art, and mature themes. The upcoming anime will not only give these burgeoning franchises a global platform but will also solidify their status as the rightful successors to the throne once held by Jujutsu Kaisen and My Hero Academia.

Kagurabachi: The Next Dark Shonen Sensation

Kagurabachi, created by Takeru Hokazono, has taken the manga world by storm since its debut. The series follows Chihiro Rokuhira, a young swordsman on a quest for vengeance after his father, a renowned swordsmith, is murdered and his enchanted blades are stolen. What sets Kagurabachi apart is its unyielding commitment to a gritty, dark tone, reminiscent of the best elements of Jujutsu Kaisen and Chainsaw Man. The manga’s art style is visceral and kinetic, with breathtaking fight choreography that translates perfectly to animation. The narrative, while initially straightforward, quickly unravels into a complex and lore-rich world filled with sorcerers, powerful artifacts, and moral ambiguities.

According to reliable industry reports, the Kagurabachi anime is being produced by Cygames Pictures, a studio known for its high-quality animation and attention to detail. This choice is a huge win for fans, as it promises to deliver the brutal and visually stunning action that makes the manga so compelling. The series has already become a global phenomenon, with its initial chapters going viral online and inspiring countless fan art and memes. An anime adaptation is the final piece of the puzzle, poised to catapult Kagurabachi into the mainstream and attract a new legion of fans looking for their next dark fantasy fix.

Gachiakuta: A Dystopian Masterpiece

While Kagurabachi fills the dark shonen void, Gachiakuta offers a different, but equally powerful, experience. Created by Kei Urana, with graffiti artist Hideyoshi Andou contributing to the series’ unique aesthetic, Gachiakuta is a dystopian punk-action series. The story follows Rudo, an outcast who, after being framed for murder, is exiled to a massive, monstrous trash heap known as “The Abyss.” There, he discovers a new power to fight against the monstrous “Trash Beasts” and embarks on a quest for revenge and redemption.

The Gachiakuta anime, produced by the acclaimed Studio Bones, premiered in July 2025. This studio, known for its work on My Hero Academia, is a perfect fit for Gachiakuta’s vibrant art style and intense action sequences. The series’ unique graffiti-inspired visuals and emotionally charged narrative have made it a standout title in Weekly Shōnen Magazine. It tackles heavy themes of social class, injustice, and environmental decay with a punk rock sensibility that feels fresh and vital. The collaboration with Studio Bones, a powerhouse in the anime industry, has given Gachiakuta an incredible boost and a high chance of becoming a major hit, appealing to fans of both My Hero Academia’s heart and Jujutsu Kaisen’s dark undertones.

The Future of Shonen Manga and Anime

The impending anime adaptations of Kagurabachi and the already-airing Gachiakuta signify a new chapter for the shonen genre. For years, the market has been anchored by a handful of mega-hits. With the conclusions of My Hero Academia and Jujutsu Kaisen, the stage is set for a new generation of manga to rise. These two titles, along with other promising series like Ichi the Witch and Sakamoto Days, are at the forefront of this new wave. Their anime announcements are not just a cause for celebration but a clear signal that the world of shonen manga and anime is as vibrant and innovative as ever. The torch has been passed, and fans are now eagerly waiting to see these new heroes take their first animated steps.