The first Baki series was about a teenage fighter, Baki Hanma, training and battling his way toward becoming strong enough to challenge his father, Yujiro Hanma, the world’s most feared martial artist. It centers on underground fights, brutal martial arts tournaments, and Baki’s drive to prove himself against increasingly dangerous opponents.

What it focused on

  • Baki’s harsh training and growth as a fighter.
  • His place in the underground fighting world beneath Tokyo Dome.
  • The core rivalry with his father, Yujiro Hanma.
  • Tournament arcs and matchups against powerful martial artists.

In plain terms

Think of it as a violent, over-the-top martial arts story about a son trying to become stronger than an almost unbeatable father. The early series is less about normal sports competition and more about extreme fights, pride, and survival.

The original anime adaptation of Baki the Grappler began in 2001.