Black Dragons-Tokyo Revengers

ByNawaz Yaqub

Introduction

Among the many fearsome gangs in Tokyo Revengers, the Black Dragons stand out as a symbol of strength, legacy, and evolution. Unlike most delinquent groups that rose from street-level skirmishes, the Black Dragons were built on the foundation of military-like discipline, extreme combat skills, and generational dominance.

Over ten generations, the Black Dragons established themselves as an elite force within the Tokyo delinquent world, influencing major events and shaping the path of many central characters in the manga.

Role in Tokyo Revengers

The Black Dragons were originally founded by Shinichiro Sano, the older brother of Manjiro “Mikey” Sano, and the very first generation leader. Unlike most gangs that glorified violence, the 1st generation of the Black Dragons focused on honor, strength, and loyalty.

As the group was passed down through generations, the ideals began to rot, leading to the rise of violent and corrupt leaders. By the time the 10th generation appears, the Black Dragons have become a tyrannical force feared across Tokyo.

Powers and Abilities

Advanced Combat Training

The Black Dragons are known for their superior physical training, which includes:

  • Strict discipline
  • High-endurance brawling techniques
  • Large-scale group coordination

They often overwhelm other gangs with both strategy and strength.

Fear and Authority

Under Taiju, the Black Dragons ruled by fear and dominance. Even Toman members hesitate to confront them directly, showcasing their terrifying reputation.

Influence Over Tokyo’s Underworld

Throughout different timelines, the Black Dragons are:

  • A symbol of what happens when power is unregulated
  • Used by Kisaki to influence Toman
  • Merged into Bonten, the criminal empire in the dark future

Key Members

Shinichiro Sano – Founder (1st Gen Leader)

  • Kind, humble, and highly respected
  • Created the Black Dragons with the goal of protecting his friends
  • His death sparked much of Mikey’s emotional trauma

Taiju Shiba – 10th Gen Leader

  • Abusive, religious extremist, and physically overwhelming
  • Uses violence to maintain control
  • Arguably one of the strongest characters in raw physical strength

Hakkai Shiba – Intended 11th Gen Leader

  • Initially timid and submissive
  • Struggles under Taiju’s abuse
  • Eventually stands up against his brother with Takemichi’s support

Seishu Inui (“Inupi”) – 10th Gen Vice-Captain

  • Loyal to the ideals of the earlier Black Dragons
  • Becomes a Toman captain later
  • Skilled fighter with deep emotional scars

Hajime Kokonoi (“Koko”) – 10th Gen Member

  • Originally part of Black Dragons, known for his obsession with money
  • Strategic thinker and skilled in gang finance
  • Later joins Tenjiku, then Bonten

Legacy and Impact on the Story

The Black Dragons are known for their multi-generational leadership, with each new generation having a different captain and identity. Here’s a brief overview of their evolution:

1st Generation

  • Leader: Shinichiro Sano
  • Traits: Honor, unity, brotherhood
  • Legacy: Respected by all other gangs; considered the golden era

10th Generation

  • Leader: Taiju Shiba
  • Traits: Brutal violence, religious extremism, control through fear
  • Legacy: Most feared and hated generation; led to internal rebellion

11th Generation

  • Leader: Hakkai Shiba (briefly), but effectively disbanded by Takemichi
  • Traits: Reformation and reintegration into Toman

Final Thoughts

The Black Dragons in Tokyo Revengers are a complex and powerful organization that has shaped the story’s entire trajectory. From Shinichiro’s dream of honor to Taiju’s reign of fear, and finally to redemption under Inupi and Takemichi, their evolution reflects the core message of the series, that the past can be changed, but the heart of a leader determines the future.

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