Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple

Kenichi Shirahama starts as a frail high school freshman who gets picked on daily until he accidentally wanders into the Ryozanpaku dojo. There, three eccentric masters of martial arts rescue him and offer to train him in ancient fighting styles. The story tracks his progress from a weakling who faints at the sight of blood to a capable fighter who learns Karate, Muay Thai, Kung Fu, Jujutsu, and Aikido under strict supervision.

Shun Matsuena launched the series in Weekly Shōnen Sunday in April 2002 after testing the concept with a one-shot in 1999. The main run ended in September 2014, collecting 61 tankōbon volumes published by Shōnen Sunday Comics. Readers follow Kenichi through clashes with rival organizations like the Apaches and the Rinsengumi while navigating the chaotic domestic life of his masters. [edit]