Haikyu!! is renowned as one of the most beloved sports manga of all time, and its protagonist, Shoyo Hinata, is a major factor in the series' widespread appeal. His aloof nature and relatable struggles have endeared him to many fans, particularly those dealing with self-confidence issues.
Hinata's ability to connect with the audience makes him a standout character in Haikyu!!, and as the series progresses, he becomes even more deserving of support. Small moments throughout the story, like Hinata's admission of being a devoted One Piece fan with a surprising favorite character, contribute to his charm.
Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for the Haikyu!! and One Piece series.
Haikyu!! protagonist Shoyo Hinata likes One Piece, and his favorite character is Roronoa Zoro
One Piece has gained such immense popularity over the years that it has been referenced in various franchises including Blue Lock, Gintama, and of course, Haikyu!! In Chapter 373 of the manga, the protagonist Shoyo Hinata discusses manga and anime with his roommate Pedro, who admits to being a huge One Piece fan, showcasing the widespread influence of Eiichiro Oda's masterpiece.
Hinata declares Roronoa Zoro, the Straw Hats' skilled swordsman and Luffy's initial crew member, as his top favorite character. This announcement brought joy to many One Piece admirers, considering the series is held in high regard, possibly ranking among the greatest of all time, and it pays homage to their beloved manga.
In addition, Hinata elaborates on why he admires Zoro, highlighting his unwavering determination and ongoing pursuit of self-improvement. It is fitting that a sports series like Haikyu!! would have a fan who appreciates the character's relentless pursuit of progress and development, qualities that any athlete can identify with.
The appeal of both series
The main volleyball team in Haikyu!! (Image via Production I.G.).
One Piece's appeal is undeniable, with its strong cast of characters, incredible world-building, and author Eiichiro Oda's creation of a vast well of mysteries and lore that has inspired fans to come up with numerous theories over the years. The series' celebration of freedom, adventure, and friendship has resonated deeply with anime fans worldwide.
While Haikyu!! may not have the same level of global recognition, it has earned a notable reputation as one of the best sports manga of all time. Shoyo Hinata embodies the classic shonen protagonist with his never-say-die and cheerful attitude, as he strives to become a successful volleyball player despite not even having a team at the beginning of the series.
Final thoughts
In both series, friendship and the determination never to give up are celebrated consistently throughout their respective runs. Despite the stark differences between the two - with one set in a fantasy world of pirates and the other focusing on volleyball players - there are undeniable similarities between the stories.
The main character of the Haikyu!! series, Shoyo Hinata, discloses in chapter 373 of the manga that he is a devoted fan of the One Piece series. He particularly admires the character Roronoa Zoro for his unwavering determination and relentless pursuit of growth and improvement.
Editor's P/S
As a hard fan of both Haikyu!! and One Piece, I am thrilled to see the connection between these two amazing series. Hinata's admiration for Zoro adds another layer of depth to his character and highlights the universal appeal of One Piece. It's heartwarming to see how these two iconic series have touched the hearts of fans worldwide, celebrating friendship, determination, and the pursuit of dreams.
The fact that Hinata, a character known for his passion and determination in Haikyu!!, finds inspiration in Zoro, a character known for his unwavering resolve in One Piece, is a testament to the power of these qualities. Both series emphasize the importance of never giving up, no matter the obstacles, and the value of true friendship. It's no wonder that these series have captured the hearts of fans worldwide and continue to inspire and entertain us.