Although One-Punch Man is known for its comedy and action-packed battles, but recent chapters have sparked discussions among a different segment of the fanbase.
In Chapter 176, Saitama accompanies Hellish Blizzard on a visit to an underground prison within the Hero Association, where the esper villain Psychos is being held.
What begins as a simple visit quickly escalates into an intense psychic battle involving Terrible Tornado, Blizzard, and an unnamed male esper. Eventually, Saitama steps in to prevent Tornado from completely wiping out Blizzard’s group.
When psychic power meets Saitama’s unshakable presence (Photo: One Punch Man/Madhouse)Following these events, conversations among fans have shifted towards the possibility of a romantic subplot involving Saitama and one of the Psychic Sisters. Many are debating which of the two, Tornado or Blizzard, is a better match for him.
Looking at Saitama’s past and recent interactions with them, one might wonder whether there is genuine potential for a romantic development in the story. However, even if hints exist, some question whether romance would align with the tone of One-Punch Man.
The Connection Between Saitama and Blizzard
Hellish Blizzard, the highest-ranked B-Class hero, did not have a friendly start with Saitama. When she first approached him, it was to assert her dominance and test his abilities, intending to establish her superiority as a hero of a higher rank.
However, she quickly realized just how powerful he was, especially after seeing his ties to top-tier S-Class heroes like Genos and King. Recognizing his strength, she changed her approach and attempted to recruit him into her Blizzard Group.
Since their first encounter, Blizzard’s interactions with Saitama have been limited, but she has grown more comfortable around him. She frequently visits his home, trying to persuade him to join her group. Her trust in him is evident, as shown when she brings him along to meet Psychos.
In One-Punch Man Chapter 176, Saitama shares his thoughts on their relationship when asked by Tornado. He states that Blizzard is neither a friend nor a companion, but simply an acquaintance. This response visibly disappoints Blizzard, leading many fans to speculate that she may have developed unspoken feelings for him.
However, this interpretation seems unlikely. Their conversations in the manga have been few, and Blizzard appears far more invested in her relationship with her sister than in any potential romance with Saitama. What this moment does reveal is the level of respect Blizzard has for Saitama.
She admires his strength and heroic nature, much like how she looks up to her sister. Realizing that Saitama does not see their relationship as close might have been what disappointed her the most.
While there is room for her feelings to develop over time, they are not on equal footing in terms of familiarity, and their bond remains at the acquaintance level for now.
Saitama’s Interactions with Tornado
Saitama’s first encounter with Terrible Tornado was more comedic than serious. She scolded him for attending a meeting meant only for S-Class heroes, and he casually dismissed her by calling her a “sassy lost child.”
Unlike his interactions with Blizzard, his exchanges with Tornado have been even fewer. However, recent chapters suggest a change in their dynamic. Currently, Tornado is fighting Saitama, testing his resolve regarding her sister.
Throughout their battle, she is seen smiling and laughing, appearing genuinely entertained for the first time in a while. She seems to be enjoying the rare experience of facing someone who can withstand her overwhelming power.
A particular moment in One-Punch Man Chapter 176, where Saitama holds Tornado close to his chest, has caught the attention of fans. The surprised expression on her face has led some to believe this was a deliberate hint at a future romantic development.
Do Saitama and Tornado Complement Each Other?
When considering compatibility, Saitama and Tornado seem to match each other better than Saitama and Blizzard. Both are among the strongest individuals in the series—though Saitama is superior—giving them a shared understanding of what it means to be at the peak of power.
Because of this, they have the potential to relate to each other on a deeper level compared to others. Saitama struggles with boredom and often finds it difficult to connect with those around him, yet he maintains a sociable personality.
Tornado, on the other hand, is not limited to just being a hero—she has more aspects to her life—but she has a short temper and little regard for those weaker than her. In theory, Saitama could help her loosen up and develop a more relaxed approach to life, while she could, in turn, help bring out more of his emotions.
However, their relationship has not progressed far enough for such a dynamic to take shape. At this point, it remains uncertain whether the manga intends to develop their connection beyond occasional interactions.
Is Romance a Possibility for Saitama?
At this stage in One-Punch Man, there is little room for romance in Saitama’s story. Although he has been gradually reintegrating into society and forming more relationships over time, he remains emotionally detached and has shown no real interest in companionship, let alone romance.
A hero’s life isn’t just about battles—could love be in the air (Photo: One Punch Man/Madhouse)Blizzard and Tornado also have unresolved issues, particularly regarding their relationship as sisters. Both characters need further individual development before any romantic subplot involving them would feel natural.
Introducing romance into Saitama’s story right now would not align with the series’ current tone, which remains focused on its main plot and world-building. However, this could change in the future. A recurring theme in One-Punch Man is Saitama’s quest to rediscover his emotions and find new meaning in life.
His recent experience of loss, particularly his frustration over Genos’ death in an alternate timeline, suggests that his character arc is moving towards deeper emotional growth. When his journey reaches a later stage, a romantic relationship could serve as a meaningful close to his development, highlighting how much he has changed.
If the story ever moves in that direction, Blizzard and Tornado could both be considered potential candidates, given their existing chemistry with Saitama.
However, as things stand, any romance would feel premature. All three characters still require more personal growth before such a development would feel natural or fitting within One-Punch Man’s overarching story.