In Memory of Tetsuya Chiba (1939-2026)

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Tetsuya Chiba, the legendary Japanese manga artist best known for "Ashita no Joe." He passed away on October 22, 2026, at the age of 87.

Throughout his remarkable 70-year career, Chiba-sensei brought countless memorable characters and stories to life through works including "Ashita no Joe," "Ore wa Teppei," "Notari Matsutaro," and "Ashita Tenki ni Naare."

His expressive artwork and powerful storytelling touched the hearts of generations of readers and creators, leaving a lasting legacy in Japan and around the world. His contributions to manga will continue to be remembered for years to come.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and fans everywhere.

Thank you for everything, Chiba-sensei. Your stories, characters, and artistic legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

May you rest in peace.

The Legacy of "Ashita no Joe"

First serialized in 1968, "Ashita no Joe" became one of the defining works of Japanese sports manga. Created by Tetsuya Chiba together with original story writer Asao Takamori (Ikki Kajiwara), the series follows Joe Yabuki, a troubled young man who discovers boxing and struggles to find his place in the world.

Through Joe's journey, his relationship with trainer Danpei Tange, and his unforgettable rivalry with Toru Rikiishi, the manga explores determination, friendship, loss, and the meaning of pursuing one's dreams.

More than half a century after its debut, "Ashita no Joe" remains an enduring part of Japanese manga and anime culture, introducing new generations of readers and viewers to Chiba-sensei's unforgettable characters.

Remembering "Ashita no Joe" Through His Work

For those wishing to revisit Chiba-sensei's artistic legacy, we would like to introduce two special "Ashita no Joe" releases available through CDJapan.

"Ashita No Joe Joe & Rikishi (Manga Genko Saisei Sosho)" - Manga Manuscript Reproduction

This manga manuscript reproduction volume presents selected original pages from "Ashita no Joe," focusing on the relationship between Joe Yabuki and Toru Rikiishi. Recreating the appearance of Chiba-sensei's original artwork at its original size, the volume offers a closer look at the drawings behind one of manga's most memorable rivalries.

Featuring episodes surrounding Joe and Rikiishi's final confrontation, this reproduction provides an opportunity to appreciate Chiba-sensei's expressive linework and visual storytelling.

"Ashita no Joe [4K Remastered] Vol.1" - Blu-ray

Rediscover the classic 1970-1971 television anime adaptation of "Ashita no Joe" in this Blu-ray release featuring 4K-remastered footage.

Vol.1 contains episodes 1 through 40 across two Blu-ray discs, following Joe Yabuki's early journey into boxing and his encounters with the people who would shape his future. The release also includes the pilot episode (Aoyama version) as a special feature.

Japanese audio with no subtitles. Please note that this is a Blu-ray release featuring 4K-remastered footage, not a 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray.

Explore More "Ashita no Joe" Releases

From manga editions to anime adaptations and soundtracks, explore more releases related to "Ashita no Joe" and revisit the world brought to life by Tetsuya Chiba and Asao Takamori.

See more

Browse the "Ashita no Joe" series at CDJapan for more related releases.

For International Fans

CDJapan offers worldwide shipping with multiple currencies and payment methods. Available shipping methods depend on your country and the items in your order.

References & Further Reading

  • Official Announcement: Tetsuya Chiba Official Website
    Chiba Production shares the family's announcement of his passing and expresses gratitude to everyone who supported his work throughout his 70-year career.
  • News Report: FNN Prime Online - Tetsuya Chiba Obituary
    Published on October 27, 2026, this report covers Kodansha's announcement of Chiba-sensei's passing and reflects on his career and contributions to Japanese manga.
  • Publisher Product Information: Ashita no Joe: Joe & Rikiishi - Fukkan.com
    The publisher introduces the manga manuscript reproduction edition, featuring selected scenes centered on Joe Yabuki and Toru Rikiishi.
  • Anime Blu-ray Information: Ashita no Joe 4K Remastered Blu-ray Vol.1 - Best Field
    The official product page provides information about the restored television anime, its episode coverage, and included bonus footage.

Chiba-sensei may be gone, but the spirit of his work will live on in the hearts of manga and anime fans for generations.

Thank you, Tetsuya Chiba-sensei.



Note: This article was created on 2026-10-27. Any subsequent updates or changes to product details or bonus contents may not be reflected here. Please confirm the latest information on each product page.