For decades,Baki the Grapplerhas stood as one of manga’s most eccentric and enduring martial arts sagas, yet English-speaking fans have never had full access to its original print. Despite selling over 100 million copies and thriving in markets like France and Italy, Keisuke Itagaki’s cult classic has remained largely absent from U.S. bookshelves, until now.
Thanks to rising publisherKodamaTales,Baki the Grappleris finally getting the English release it deserves. Announced at San Diego Comic-Con 2025, the upcoming localization will be aggressive in pace and rich in quality. Starting in October, fans will be able to get their hands on stunning 2-in-1 physical editions, complete with extras and bonus materials made just for the English launch.
KodamaTales Is Taking Baki Seriously
Baki’s Long-Awaited English Debut Is No Half-Measure
Unlike typical manga release schedules,KodamaTales plans to release two 2-in-1Bakivolumes per month, effectively matching four volumes of the Japanese edition.That is an ambitious timeline, signaling just how seriously the publisher is treating the franchise. The goal is to bring English readers up to speed with the currentBaki Rahenstoryline in just a few years.
Even more exciting is the high production value. KodamaTales’ editions boast exclusive bonuses and eye-catching foil covers. Each first print run will highlight Keisuke Itagaki’s signature art at its best, which is something earlier releases never quite captured. This marks a major shift in how Western publishers handle iconic, long-running manga franchises.
Baki is a Cult Classic with Real Emotional Power
Why Baki Is One of Manga’s Most Unique Epics
ThoughBakiis famous for its wild fights and off-the-wall characters, including homages to figures like Muhammad Ali and Miyamoto Musashi, it is not just about over-the-top brawls. At its core, it’s a brutal yet poetic tale about fathers and sons, told through some of the most visually dynamic storytelling in manga history.
With over 1,000 chapters across multiple arcs,Bakimixes absurdity with emotional depth. The Netflix anime may have introduced new fans to its unorthodox world, but only the manga captures its true philosophical weight and surreal humor. KodamaTales’ upcoming release is the first time U.S. readers can fully experience this masterpiece in physical form.
Now that preorders for the first two volumes ofBaki the Grapplerare live, longtime fans and newcomers alike can finally dive into one of manga’s most unforgettable journeys, and no fan of battle shōnen will want to miss it.
