Toshio Sako, the mastermind behind the gripping psychological thriller manga Usogui, is set to unleash his creative prowess in a new arena: the gritty world of boxing. His upcoming manga series, Geni Kasuri, promises a hard-hitting narrative of revenge and redemption within the dark underbelly of professional boxing.
A New Challenger Approaches: Geni Kasuri
Sako’s new venture was announced in the ninth issue of Shueisha’s Weekly Young Jump magazine on Thursday, February 1st, 2025. The series is scheduled to premiere in the magazine’s next issue, hitting shelves on February 6th.
Geni Kasuri delves into the lives of those who manipulate the sport for financial gain, showcasing the brutal realities faced by boxers caught in a web of corruption and exploitation. This “revenge and comeback” story is poised to deliver a raw and unflinching look at the sacrifices and struggles within the boxing world.
Sako’s Departure from Batuque
This new project follows the conclusion of Sako’s previous manga, Batuque, which ended its run in February 2024 on the Tonari no Young Jump web magazine and the Yanjan! app. The 18th and final compiled book volume of Batuque was released on March 18th, 2024. Batuque, a martial arts manga, initially launched in Young Jump magazine in July 2018, before transitioning to the online platforms in May 2020.
Toshio Sako: A Master of Suspense and Intrigue
Toshio Sako cemented his reputation as a visionary manga creator with Usogui -Rikkainin Yakō Hikoichi-, a series that captivated readers with its intricate plots and mind-bending psychological battles. The series initially began with the title Usogui: Tokubetsu-hen (The Lie Eater: Special Arc) in Weekly Young Jump in October 2021 and concluded in November 2021.
The Legacy of Usogui
Sako’s most renowned work, Usogui, ran from 2006 to 2017, spanning an impressive 49 volumes. The series follows Baku Madarame, also known as “Usogui” (The Lie Eater), as he navigates a dangerous world of high-stakes gambling and deception, challenging powerful adversaries in games where the ultimate price is life itself.
Usogui’s popularity led to an original video animation (OVA) that was bundled with the manga’s 26th volume in 2012. In February 2022, a live-action film adaptation brought the thrilling world of Usogui to a wider audience. Ryusei Yokohama starred in the film, bringing the character of Baku Madarame to life.
Boxing in Manga: A Knockout Genre
Boxing has long been a popular subject in manga, with iconic series such as Hajime no Ippo capturing the hearts of readers for decades. These stories often explore themes of perseverance, determination, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. Sako’s Geni Kasuri is poised to add a darker, more cynical edge to the genre, delving into the corruption and exploitation that can plague the sport.
Other Notable Boxing Manga
- Hajime no Ippo: George Morikawa’s long-running series follows the journey of Ippo Makunouchi as he rises through the ranks of professional boxing.
- Ashita no Joe: Ikki Kajiwara and Tetsuya Chiba’s classic manga tells the story of Joe Yabuki, a troubled youth who finds purpose and redemption through boxing.
What to Expect from Geni Kasuri
Geni Kasuri promises a unique blend of action, suspense, and social commentary. Sako’s signature storytelling style, characterized by intricate plots and complex characters, is sure to keep readers on the edge of their seats. The manga’s focus on the dark side of boxing offers a fresh perspective on a well-worn genre, exploring the ethical dilemmas and moral compromises faced by those involved in the sport.
Potential Themes and Story Arcs
- Corruption and Exploitation: The series is likely to delve into the ways in which boxing can be manipulated for financial gain, with corrupt promoters, managers, and even boxers themselves playing a role.
- Revenge and Redemption: The protagonist’s quest for revenge will likely be a central theme, as they seek to right the wrongs that have been committed against them.
- The Price of Ambition: The manga may explore the sacrifices and compromises that boxers are willing to make in order to achieve their dreams, and the toll that this can take on their lives.
The Impact of Sako’s Return
Toshio Sako’s return to the manga scene with Geni Kasuri is highly anticipated by fans of his previous work. His unique storytelling style and ability to create compelling characters have earned him a dedicated following. Geni Kasuri has the potential to be a major hit, attracting both longtime fans of Sako’s work and newcomers to the world of boxing manga.
Anticipation and Expectations
- High Expectations: Fans are eager to see what Sako will bring to the boxing genre, given his track record of creating innovative and thought-provoking stories.
- Potential for Success: Geni Kasuri has the potential to be a commercial success, appealing to a wide audience with its blend of action, suspense, and social commentary.
- Critical Acclaim: Sako’s previous works have been praised for their complex plots and well-developed characters, and Geni Kasuri is expected to receive similar critical acclaim.
Where to Follow Geni Kasuri’s Journey
Geni Kasuri will be serialized in Weekly Young Jump magazine, published by Shueisha. Fans can follow the series’ progress by purchasing the magazine or accessing it online through various digital platforms.
Stay Updated
- Weekly Young Jump: Check the magazine’s official website for updates and information about the series.
- Social Media: Follow Toshio Sako and Weekly Young Jump on social media for announcements and behind-the-scenes content.
- Manga News Sites: Keep an eye on manga news sites for reviews, interviews, and other updates about Geni Kasuri.
