One-Punch Man has established itself as one of the most important superhero anime in recent years. Set in a world constantly under threat from monstrous creatures similar to Godzilla and other immensely powerful foes, it only makes sense that heroes exist who are just as strong, if not stronger, to combat these threats.
The central figure, Saitama, stands unmatched as the most powerful man in existence, capable of eliminating any opponent with a single punch. With a vast array of exceptionally skilled and resilient characters, there is no shortage of thrilling, action-packed battles that fuel adrenaline.
King and Saitama’s friendship thrives over video games and manga (Photo: One Punch Man/Madhouse)Whether it is the devoted cyborg Genos or the ever-determined Mumen Rider, these are some of the most outstanding characters in One-Punch Man.
10. Mumen Rider
Satoru, better known as Mumen Rider, is a Class C Rank 1 Hero with an unwavering commitment to justice. He rides his bicycle around the city, seeking opportunities to assist those in need, even if it means taking on minor tasks such as offering Saitama a lift.
Despite lacking extraordinary abilities compared to other heroes, Mumen Rider exemplifies kindness and selflessness, never motivated by rankings or status. His moments on screen often provide comic relief, but his courage is undeniable.
While others may retreat in fear, he stands his ground, regardless of the odds. He also recognises Saitama’s true strength and, rather than envying him, chooses to support him wholeheartedly.
9. King
Among the S-Rank Heroes, King presents an unusual case because he does not possess any real combat abilities. His high-ranking status came about by accident—being mistakenly credited for Saitama’s achievements after repeatedly finding himself in the wrong place at the right time (or perhaps the other way around).
This mistaken identity leaves him overwhelmed with guilt, as he constantly worries about being called upon to fight when he lacks any real battle skills. However, despite his anxieties, he develops a strong friendship with Saitama, bonding over their mutual love for video games and manga.
8. Fubuki
Fubuki, ranked first among the B-Class Heroes, is highly protective of her status. She takes it upon herself to gather other B-Class Heroes whom she considers a threat to her position, forming a faction that effectively prevents promotions to higher ranks. She once attempted to recruit Saitama, only to be turned down outright.
Although Fubuki wields impressive esper abilities, she pales in comparison to her older sister, Tatsumaki. This disparity fuels a deep-rooted sense of inadequacy, making her believe she has no chance of advancing further in rank.
However, after spending time with Saitama’s group, she gradually gains confidence, working towards overcoming her insecurities and pushing past the mental barriers holding her back.
7. Speed-o’-Sound Sonic
Speed-o’-Sound Sonic, once an assassin, considers himself Saitama’s arch-nemesis. His rivalry with Saitama stems from a misunderstanding during a bodyguard mission, which ended in him suffering a humiliating defeat at Saitama’s hands.
This failure becomes an obsession, driving him to undergo intense training to enhance his skills. His speed is beyond human comprehension, leaving behind afterimages as he moves. With an immense amount of pride and an insatiable desire to be the strongest, he refuses to let Saitama continue to exist unchallenged.
6. Bomb
The older brother of Bang (also known as Silver Fang), Bomb is regarded as one of the finest martial artists, standing alongside his younger sibling. Unlike Bang, he does not pursue a career as a professional hero, choosing instead to focus on passing down his martial arts expertise to his students.
Although past his prime, Bomb remains a formidable warrior, proving his worth by helping Bang take down Elder Centipede. As a caring and supportive brother, he acknowledges the passage of time but maintains a hopeful outlook on the future.
5. Bang
An S-Rank Hero and a master martial artist, Bang runs a dojo dedicated to training ambitious individuals in his unique martial arts techniques. Despite his advancing years, he continues to display remarkable strength, agility, and precision, holding his own against Dragon-level threats.
His serious and intimidating demeanour conceals a wise and compassionate nature. He firmly believes that the hero industry has lost its way and holds himself accountable for the path taken by his former student, Garou. Eventually, Bang steps away from heroism, shifting his focus entirely to his dojo.
4. Garou
Once a student of Bang, Garou takes on the role of a major antagonist during the Monster Association arc. Expelled from Bang’s dojo for his violent tendencies, he resurfaces years later, now far more powerful and proclaiming himself as the ‘Hero Hunter.’
Travelling from city to city, he actively challenges and defeats top-ranking heroes. Despite fighting nearly everyone he encounters, he refuses to align himself with the Monster Association and avoids combat if children are involved.
He faces off against his former master, Bang, and his brother Bomb. After the fall of the Monster Association, he begins a journey towards redemption under Bang’s supervision.
3. Tatsumaki
Tatsumaki stands as one of the most formidable female characters in anime. As the older sister of Fubuki, she holds the rank of S-Class Rank 2 Hero, possessing immense psychic abilities. To her, saving people is not a personal mission but rather an obligation dictated by her esper powers.
King’s unexpected rise to S-Rank is the ultimate case of mistaken identity (Photo: One Punch Man/Madhouse)Although she often comes across as arrogant, self-centred, and dismissive of others, Tatsumaki genuinely cares for Fubuki. Her immense self-confidence makes her resistant to teamwork, as she struggles to accept the idea that others, such as Garou or Saitama, might rival her strength.
2. Genos
Genos, Saitama’s first and only disciple, was once human before willingly undergoing cybernetic enhancements to transform into a cyborg. His quest for vengeance against the monster responsible for his village’s destruction brings him to Saitama, whom he challenges in battle to measure their strengths.
Despite his combat abilities, Genos remains humble, acknowledging the need for continuous improvement. This mindset leads him to request Saitama’s mentorship. His serious nature causes him to take Saitama’s words at face value, but his drive for self-betterment keeps him constantly upgrading his modifications.
Although ranked as an S-Class Hero, he does not let it cloud his respect for Saitama and continues to view him as his superior.
1. Saitama
Saitama is widely regarded as one of the most overpowered anime characters ever conceived. As the central figure in the story, he pursued heroism with an earnest desire to protect others, only to become so powerful that no adversary posed a real challenge anymore.
Rather than finding joy in his strength, he becomes disillusioned, struggling with boredom. Despite this, his intentions remain pure, and he demonstrates genuine kindness and selflessness.
Due to various misunderstandings and unfortunate events, Saitama is classified as a B-Rank Hero, though he never harbours any resentment towards Genos or others ranked above him. Even though he stands at the pinnacle of power, he remains open to learning and acknowledges that his journey as a hero is far from over.