The Kinnikuman: Perfect Origin Arc anime continues to bolster its already impressive cast with the addition of voice actor Nobunaga Shimazaki. Known for his roles as Baki Hanma in Baki the Grappler and Haruka Nanase in Free!, Shimazaki will be taking on the role of Pentagon, a righteous superhuman known for his aerial fighting style. This announcement comes as the second season of the popular wrestling anime is currently airing, with Pentagon set to debut in the 15th episode on February 2nd.
Pentagon Joins the Fray
Pentagon, a character famed for his acrobatic maneuvers and massive wings, will be voiced by Nobunaga Shimazaki, as revealed by the series’ official website. This addition is generating considerable excitement among fans, as Shimazaki’s vocal range is well-suited to bring the powerful and graceful character to life. The character is a welcome addition to the ongoing conflict between the Seigi/Akuma Allied Forces and the Perfect Large Numbers.
Shimazaki’s Extensive Anime Career
Nobunaga Shimazaki has an impressive history in anime, playing a wide range of characters. Some of his most notable roles include:
- Haruka Nanase in the Free! franchise.
- Baki Hanma in the Baki the Grappler series.
- Shido Itsuka in Date A Live.
- Yuno in Black Clover.
- Shun Kaido in The Disastrous Life of Saiki K.
- Hyuse in World Trigger.
- Rintaro Suna in Haikyuu!!: To The Top.
- Shinichi Izumi in Parasyte.
- Yuki Sohma in Fruits Basket.
- Eugeo in Sword Art Online.
- Mahito in Jujutsu Kaisen.
- Izana Kurokawa in Tokyo Revengers.
- Nagi Seishiro in Blue Lock.
- Suo Hayato in Wind Breaker.
Shimazaki’s ability to portray diverse characters, from stoic heroes to complex villains, makes him a valuable addition to the Kinnikuman cast. His experience in action-oriented series will undoubtedly contribute to his portrayal of Pentagon.
Kinnikuman: A Legacy of Wrestling Action
The Kinnikuman franchise, created by the duo Yudetamago (the pen name of Yoshinori Nakai and Takashi Shimada), has a long and storied history. The original manga debuted in Weekly Shonen Jump in 1979, blending superhero action with the high-octane drama of professional wrestling. The story follows Suguru Kinniku, also known as Kinnikuman, a clumsy superhero who discovers he is the missing prince of Planet Kinniku. To prove his worthiness, he participates in wrestling tournaments and battles evil superhumans.
From Manga to Anime
- The original Kinnikuman manga ran from 1979 to 1987.
- The first anime adaptation aired from 1983 to 1986, consisting of 137 episodes.
- The manga series was revived in 2011.
- The Kinnikuman: Perfect Origin Arc anime is based on the revived manga’s arc.
The current anime series, Kinnikuman: Perfect Origin Arc, produced by Production I.G, is a modern adaptation of the manga’s later chapters. This season focuses on the intense conflict between the heroic Seigi Chojin, the evil Akuma Chojin, and the powerful Perfect Chojin, delving into the origins of these superpowered beings.
The Perfect Origin Arc Season 2
Season 2 of Kinnikuman: Perfect Origin Arc premiered on January 12th, 2025, in Japan and began streaming on Netflix internationally on January 13th. It continues the storyline, with the Seigi and Akuma Allied Forces battling the Perfect Large Numbers Corps at the Tottori Sand Dunes. The series is directed by Akira Sato, with Makoto Fukami handling series composition, Hirotaka Marufuji designing characters, and Yasuharu Takanashi composing the music.
Key Aspects of Season 2:
- The season features an epic three-way battle between the Seigi, Akuma, and Perfect Chojin factions.
- It explores the roots of the Chojin.
- Masaaki Endoh performs the opening theme song “Kinnikuman Hero”.
- Mamoru Miyano performs the ending theme song “29”.
- The series streams weekly on Netflix.
The Story of Kinnikuman
Kinnikuman’s journey begins with his arrival on Earth from Planet Kinniku, a world of mighty superhumans. Initially ridiculed for his clumsiness, Kinnikuman is given the chance to compete in the Chojin World Cup, where he unexpectedly wins the championship. He wins the following year as well, thus becoming a central figure among the Seigi Chojin (Justice Supermen) and protecting the universe from evil.
Throughout his adventures, Kinnikuman has faced numerous adversaries, including the Akuma Chojin (Devil Supermen) and the Perfect Chojin, and has gained many allies including Terryman and Robin Mask. His ultimate test came when he won the “Survival Match for the Kinnikusei Throne,” solidifying his position as the 58th Great King of Kinnikusei.
The Voice Cast
The Kinnikuman: Perfect Origin Arc boasts a talented voice cast, bringing the characters to life:
- Mamoru Miyano as Kinnikuman.
- Akira Kamiya as Mayumi Kinniku and Prince Kamehame.
- Sumire Uesaka as Meat Alexandria.
- Daisuke Ono as Terryman.
- Katsuyuki Konishi as Robin Mask.
- Yuki Kaji as Warsman.
- Tomokazu Seki as Ramenman.
- Takeshi Kusao as Nemesis.
- Junichi Suwabe as Grim Reaper.
- Yoshihisa Kawahara as Marvelous.
- Shinobu Matsumoto as Jack Chi.
- Takashi Matsuyama as Polarman.
- Jun Kasama as Brocken Jr.
With the addition of Nobunaga Shimazaki as Pentagon, the cast continues to expand and deepen, promising even more thrilling battles and engaging storylines. Fans can look forward to seeing how Shimazaki’s portrayal of Pentagon will impact the series.
As the Kinnikuman: Perfect Origin Arc continues its run, the inclusion of such a renowned voice actor as Nobunaga Shimazaki demonstrates the franchise’s ongoing commitment to quality and excitement. The series remains a must-watch for long-time fans and newcomers alike, delivering a unique blend of superhero action and pro wrestling spectacle.
