15 Main Characters Who Lost Every Fight But Still Won the Story
Some heroes shine by dominating battles, but others steal the story despite never winning a single fight. These main characters take hit after hit, yet their grit, growth, or impact make them the true victors in their narratives, proving you don’t need a win to be unforgettable.
I’ve picked fifteen protagonists from anime, shows, and movies who lose every on-screen battle but still come out on top through their choices and spirit. Their defeats don’t define them—it’s how they rise above that makes their stories resonate.
Koichi Zenigata – Lupin III (1971-present)
Inspector Zenigata, voiced by Koichi Yamadera in ‘Lupin III,’ chases the master thief Lupin but never wins a single showdown. Whether it’s a heist or a direct clash, Zenigata’s always outsmarted, ending up tied up or outrun.
His victory lies in his unyielding pursuit and moral compass. Zenigata’s relentless dedication to justice and his odd bond with Lupin make him a fan favorite, proving his worth beyond catching his target.
Neville Longbottom – Harry Potter (2001-2011)
Neville, played by Matthew Lewis in the ‘Harry Potter’ films, loses every fight he’s in. From schoolyard duels to battles against Death Eaters, he’s knocked down or disarmed, never landing a decisive blow.
His true win is his courage and growth into a leader. By destroying a Horcrux and rallying Hogwarts, Neville’s heart and loyalty make him a hero, far beyond his lack of combat wins.
Takemichi Hanagaki – Tokyo Revengers (2021-present)
Takemichi, voiced by Yuuki Shin in ‘Tokyo Revengers,’ gets beaten senseless in every fight. Gang members pummel him, and he never lands a punch that matters, yet his time-traveling mission drives the story.
His victory comes from changing the future and inspiring his friends. Takemichi’s tears and stubborn heart turn his losses into a powerful tale of redemption and leadership.
Usopp – One Piece (1999-present)
Usopp, voiced by Kappei Yamaguchi in ‘One Piece,’ is the Straw Hat sniper who loses every direct fight. From early scraps to battles against Ulti or other heavyweights, he’s always outmatched, relying on tricks to survive.
His real win is his growth into a brave crewmate. Usopp’s loyalty and clever plans, like inspiring allies or aiding Luffy, make him a hero despite his constant defeats.
Chihiro Fujisaki – Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc (2010)
Chihiro, voiced by Koki Miyata in ‘Danganronpa,’ is the Ultimate Programmer who never wins a physical fight. Too gentle and frail, Chihiro’s story ends early, with no combat victories to their name.
Their legacy shines through their creation, Alter Ego, which helps the survivors uncover Hope’s Peak’s secrets. Chihiro’s kindness and ingenuity make them a pivotal hero, even without a single fight won.
Mumen Rider – One Punch Man (2015-present)
Mumen Rider, voiced by Yuichi Nakamura in ‘One Punch Man,’ loses every fight he takes on. Against foes like the Deep Sea King, he’s knocked out fast, yet he charges in with nothing but a bicycle and courage.
His win is in his unbreakable spirit. Mumen Rider’s selflessness inspires others, earning him respect as a true hero, even if he never lands a punch.
Shigeo Kageyama – Mob Psycho 100 (2016-2022)
Mob, voiced by Setsuo Ito in ‘Mob Psycho 100,’ has immense psychic powers but loses every physical fight when his emotions take over. His pacifist nature means he avoids combat victories, often getting beaten before unleashing his powers.
His real triumph is mastering his emotions and protecting others. Mob’s journey to self-control and kindness makes him a hero, far beyond any fight he could win.
Armin Arlert – Attack on Titan (2013-2023)
Armin, voiced by Marina Inoue in ‘Attack on Titan,’ never wins a physical fight. Whether facing Titans or soldiers, he’s overpowered, relying on strategy and his friends to survive.
His victory lies in his brilliant mind and sacrifice. Armin’s plans and courage, like taking on the Colossal Titan, shape the story’s outcome, making him a hero despite his losses.
Riko – Made in Abyss (2017-present)
Riko, voiced by Miyu Tomita in ‘Made in Abyss,’ is a young explorer who never wins a fight. Against creatures of the Abyss or other threats, she’s always outmatched, often injured or saved by others.
Her win is her fearless pursuit of truth in the Abyss. Riko’s determination and bond with Reg drive the story, making her a hero through spirit, not strength.
Konohamaru Sarutobi – Naruto (2002-2007)
Konohamaru, voiced by Hidenori Takahashi in ‘Naruto,’ loses every fight he takes on. From early spars to later battles in ‘Boruto,’ he’s outclassed, never securing a clear victory as a young ninja.
His triumph is his growth into a leader. Konohamaru’s dedication to his village and his role as a mentor make him a hero, even if his combat record stays empty.
Shinji Ikari – Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995-1996)
Shinji, voiced by Megumi Ogata in ‘Neon Genesis Evangelion,’ pilots an Eva but loses every major physical fight. His battles against Angels end in damage or defeat, often saved by others or his Eva’s berserk mode.
His victory comes from facing his inner struggles. Shinji’s emotional growth and final choices shape the story’s end, making him a hero despite his constant losses.
Rory Williams – Doctor Who (2005-present)
Rory, played by Arthur Darvill in ‘Doctor Who,’ is a loyal companion who loses every fight. From Daleks to Weeping Angels, he’s knocked out or killed, only surviving through timey-wimey resets.
His win is his devotion to Amy and the Doctor. Rory’s sacrifices and love make him a hero, proving his heart outweighs his lack of combat prowess.
Charlie Brown – Peanuts (1950-2000)
Charlie Brown, voiced by various actors in ‘Peanuts’ specials, never wins a fight, whether it’s a tug-of-war or a scuffle with bullies. His attempts at sports or kite-flying also end in failure.
His victory is his endless optimism. Charlie Brown’s kindness and persistence, like trying to kick that football, make him a timeless hero, even without a single win.
Yamcha – Dragon Ball Z (1989-1996)
Yamcha, voiced by Toru Furuya in ‘Dragon Ball Z,’ is a fighter who loses every battle. From his humiliating defeat by a Saibaman to being outclassed by Cell’s minions, he never scores a win on-screen.
His true success is his loyalty to the Z Fighters. Yamcha’s support for Goku and his friends, even as a sidelined warrior, cements his place in the story’s heart.
Ron Weasley – Harry Potter (2001-2011)
Ron, played by Rupert Grint in the ‘Harry Potter’ series, never wins a fight. Duels against Malfoy or Death Eaters leave him disarmed or injured, always relying on Harry or Hermione to pull through.
His victory is his loyalty and bravery. Ron’s friendship and crucial moments, like destroying a Horcrux, make him a hero, even if he never wins a duel.
Which of these fight-losing heroes is your favorite, or did I miss one who still wins the story? Share your thoughts in the comments!