The popular romantic comedy manga “Hanaori-san Still Wants to Fight in the Next Life” (花織さんは転生しても喧嘩がしたい, Hanaori-san wa Tensei Shite mo Kenka ga Shitai) by Hekiru Hikawa is officially receiving a TV anime adaptation, slated to premiere in 2026. An official website and X (formerly Twitter) account were launched today to make the announcement, which was accompanied by a teaser visual for the upcoming series.
The news has been met with excitement from fans of the unconventional romantic comedy, known for its unique premise involving a reincarnated demon lord and hero.
Reincarnation and Romantic Comedy Collide
“Hanaori-san Still Wants to Fight in the Next Life” tells the humorous tale of Ryūsei Narukami, a self-proclaimed NEET who, in a previous life, was a powerful demon lord. His peaceful, video game-filled existence is dramatically interrupted by Meteor Hanaori, a high school girl who is, in fact, the reincarnation of the hero who once defeated him.
Plot Overview: From Ancient Foes to Modern Sparks
The series escalates into further comedic complications when Ryūsei unexpectedly lands a job as a teacher at Meteor’s high school. What begins as a reunion of ancient adversaries in a peaceful, modern world quickly develops into an unconventional romantic comedy, blending their past animosities with burgeoning present affections. The narrative deftly intertwines battles—both literal and metaphorical—with romantic developments, creating a unique dynamic between the former demon lord and hero.
Key Characters Driving the Story
- Ryūsei Narukami: A NEET and former Demon Lord now living a quiet life until his past literally walks back into it. He unexpectedly becomes a teacher at Meteor’s school.
- Meteor Hanaori: A high school student and the reincarnation of the Hero who vanquished the Demon Lord. She seeks out Ryūsei, leading to their entangled new lives.
The Creator Behind the Comedy: Hekiru Hikawa
The manga is written and illustrated by Hekiru Hikawa, an acclaimed artist known for his distinctive humor and brisk storytelling. Hikawa’s previous works include the popular “Pani Poni Dash!” which received a 26-episode anime adaptation in 2005, and “Aho-Girl.” His track record for crafting engaging and witty narratives has set high expectations for the “Hanaori-san” anime.
Manga Publication History
“Hanaori-san wa Tensei Shite mo Kenka ga Shitai” began its serialization in Kodansha’s Monthly Morning Two magazine on August 23, 2021. As of March 2025, the manga has been compiled into seven tankōbon volumes, with an eighth volume expected. The series is ongoing, indicating a rich source of material for the upcoming anime.
Anticipation Builds for the 2026 Release
While specific details regarding the animation studio, main staff, and voice cast for the “Hanaori-san Still Wants to Fight in the Next Life” anime have yet to be revealed, the announcement alone has generated considerable buzz among the anime community. Fans on social media have expressed excitement, with comments ranging from “I’ve been waiting for this” to “Definitely going to watch,” highlighting the manga’s existing popularity and the anticipation for its animated debut.
Hikawa himself shared a comment regarding the adaptation, jokingly stating that he initially thought the news was a “dream my stress had conjured up.” He confirmed his involvement in the production, noting that the team aims to create an anime that is “stylish, entertaining, and cool” while staying true to the original manga’s atmosphere.
The adaptation of “Hanaori-san Still Wants to Fight in the Next Life” adds another intriguing title to the slate of upcoming anime in 2026, promising a fresh take on the romantic comedy and reincarnation genres.
