---

The long-running debate over anime’s “Big Three” has fueled fan arguments for nearly two decades. But a new global power ranking may have reframed that conversation — not through nostalgia, but through hard data.

A comprehensive 2026 IP Power Ranking from the Manga Research Institute has evaluated the world’s most influential anime and manga franchises, offering a data-driven snapshot of commercial strength and cultural reach.

How the Ranking Was Compiled

According to PR Times, the Manga Research Institute analyzed 300 titles drawn from MyAnimeList’s popularity rankings. The survey assessed each franchise based on brand awareness, fan base size, social media presence, popularity of the original work, and overall earning power.

The research focused on international markets and fans worldwide, excluding mainland China, in order to measure broad overseas trends. By combining commercial metrics with fan engagement indicators, the ranking aimed to capture both cultural resonance and financial performance.

The result is a list that reflects not only legacy influence but also current global momentum.

The Top Eight Anime and Manga Franchises in 2026

Per PR Times, the top eight titles in the 2026 IP Power Ranking are:

• One Piece

• Naruto

• Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba

• Jujutsu Kaisen

• Dragon Ball

• My Hero Academia

• Solo Leveling

• Blue Lock

While many names are familiar to longtime fans, the ordering has reignited debate, particularly around what now defines the modern “Big Three.”

One Piece Extends Its Global Reign

Eiichiro Oda’s One Piece secured the top position for the second consecutive year, reinforcing its status as the most commercially dominant anime and manga franchise in the world.

The series continues to thrive across multiple platforms. Its manga remains a publishing powerhouse, while the anime maintains consistent global viewership. Beyond traditional media, the brand benefits from merchandise, gaming, streaming deals, and international collaborations.

In terms of brand equity and global fan loyalty, One Piece remains unmatched in 2026.

Naruto’s Staying Power Defies Time

Ranking second, Naruto has once again demonstrated the durability of legacy franchises.

Despite the original anime concluding years ago, and its sequel series Boruto: Naruto Next Generations currently on hiatus, the franchise continues to command substantial global engagement. Merchandise sales, streaming numbers, and enduring fan communities have sustained its relevance.

For many fans, Naruto represents a generational touchstone. The data suggests that emotional attachment still translates into measurable commercial strength.

Demon Slayer’s Meteoric Rise

Perhaps the most striking modern success story is Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, which secured the third spot.

The franchise’s explosive theatrical performance has been a decisive factor. Mugen Train remains Japan’s highest-grossing film of all time, earning 40.7 billion yen at the domestic box office. Meanwhile, the 2025 release of Infinity Castle set international benchmarks, becoming the highest-grossing Japanese film worldwide.

The manga’s global circulation has reached 220 million copies, underscoring the series’ cross-generational appeal.

With both print and film dominance, Demon Slayer has effectively positioned itself within the modern Big Three conversation.

Jujutsu Kaisen Slips After Manga Conclusion

In 2025, Jujutsu Kaisen held third place in the IP rankings. This year, it moved to fourth.

Industry observers point to the conclusion of Gege Akutami’s manga as a key factor. Without a steady stream of new source material or major releases, aside from a compilation film, the franchise’s global momentum has naturally cooled.

However, its continued presence in the top tier reflects strong brand equity and sustained fan loyalty.

The Notable Absence: Bleach

One of the most talked-about aspects of the ranking is who didn’t make the top eight.

Bleach, long considered part of the original Big Three alongside One Piece and Naruto, is absent from this year’s list. This comes despite renewed interest driven by the ongoing adaptation of the Thousand-Year Blood War arc.

While the revival has energized long-time fans, it appears the franchise has not matched the global commercial acceleration of newer hits such as Demon Slayer, Jujutsu Kaisen, Solo Leveling, or Blue Lock.

The shift reflects a generational turnover in anime consumption patterns.

Solo Leveling and Blue Lock Break Through

Two of the most dynamic entries this year are Solo Leveling and Blue Lock.

Solo Leveling climbed from 14th place last year to enter the top eight. The franchise’s anime adaptation has significantly boosted its international visibility. However, uncertainty around a third season could influence its trajectory in future rankings.

Meanwhile, Blue Lock surged from 21st to eighth place, fueled by growing interest in sports anime and strong international streaming performance. Its unique psychological take on soccer competition has broadened its global appeal.

Both titles illustrate how quickly new intellectual properties can disrupt established hierarchies.

What This Means for the “Big Three” Debate

For years, the term “Big Three” referred specifically to One Piece, Naruto, and Bleach, the trio that dominated Weekly Shonen Jump during the 2000s.

But the 2026 IP Power Ranking suggests the concept has evolved.

Today’s global market rewards multi-platform adaptability, theatrical success, streaming reach, and merchandise ecosystems. Under those criteria, Demon Slayer has clearly earned its place among anime’s most influential franchises.

Rather than replacing the past, the ranking reflects an expanding definition of what dominance means in the modern anime industry.

Industry Impact and Market Implications

The data underscores a broader trend: anime is no longer confined to niche fandoms or regional markets. Global theatrical records, worldwide circulation milestones, and streaming-driven growth are reshaping the commercial landscape.

Franchises that can successfully transition between manga, anime, film, merchandise, and digital platforms are best positioned to lead.

The ranking also highlights the increasing importance of international audiences. With mainland China excluded from the study, the results emphasize strength across North America, Europe, Southeast Asia, and other global markets.

As the industry continues to globalize, adaptability and cross-border appeal are becoming decisive factors.

Looking Ahead to 2027

The 2026 ranking provides a snapshot, not a final verdict.

Upcoming anime adaptations, theatrical releases, and sequel announcements could significantly alter next year’s standings. Franchises like Solo Leveling may either consolidate their gains or face momentum slowdowns, depending on production developments.

Meanwhile, legacy giants such as Dragon Ball and My Hero Academia remain competitive, proving that brand longevity still matters.

What’s clear is that the anime power structure is more dynamic than ever.

A New Era of Global Anime Dominance

The 2026 IP Power Ranking does not erase history. Instead, it reflects a market in transition, where heritage franchises coexist with breakout phenomena.

One Piece remains the undisputed leader. Naruto continues to defy time. Demon Slayer has cemented itself as a global juggernaut.

For fans, the debate over the “Big Three” may never fully end. But for now, the numbers offer a compelling argument: dominance in anime is no longer defined solely by legacy, it’s measured by worldwide impact.

 

Continue Exploring: 

                                Paramount’s $31 Bid Ends Netflix’s Warner Pursuit

                               Paramount Moves to Shield Avatar From AI Use

                              Demon Slayer Infinity Castle Sequel Skips 2026 Release Window