Nothing beats an underdog story. The player who’s too small, too new, or too overlooked, and who keeps going anyway. If that’s your kind of story, here are five sports anime to add to your watchlist.
1. Hinomaru Sumo
Let’s start with sumo, obviously. Ushio Hinomaru dreams of becoming a Yokozuna, sumo’s top rank, but he’s tiny for a sport where size seems to matter most. Watching him take on much bigger opponents with speed, technique, and pure determination is a blast. If you’re excited about Musashi, this is the perfect warm-up.
2. Haikyu!!
Shoyo Hinata is short, but he’s obsessed with volleyball and can jump like he has springs in his shoes. He joins a high school team that used to be great, and together they fight their way back. Haikyu!! is famous for its hype matches and a huge cast of teammates and rivals you’ll end up loving.
3. Yowamushi Pedal
Sakamichi Onoda is a shy anime fan who rides his bike a long way to Akihabara all the time, and it turns out that has made him a natural climber. When his high school’s cycling club spots his talent, he discovers a world of racing and friendship. It’s proof that your hobbies can become your superpower.
4. Run with the Wind (Kaze ga Tsuyoku Fuiteiru)
A group of college housemates, most of whom have never run seriously, set out to compete in the Hakone Ekiden, one of Japan’s most famous relay races. It’s a funny, heartfelt story about teamwork and finding out what you’re capable of.
5. Ace of Diamond
Eijun Sawamura is a pitcher from the countryside with an unusual throwing style and a big mouth. He joins a powerful Tokyo high school baseball team and has to fight his way up from the bottom. Expect rivalries, training arcs, and plenty of heart.
What these shows have in common
Every one of these stories is about someone who doesn’t fit the mold and doesn’t give up. They have teammates who push them, rivals who make them better, and coaches who see something special. Sound familiar? That’s exactly the spirit behind Musashi, our original sumo series about Koji and Taku.
Tip: Check each show’s rating and where it’s streaming in your country before you start, since availability varies.
Your turn: Which underdog anime should we add to the list? Tell us on TikTok or X!