Rising voice actor Manaka Nakayama steps into the spotlight for the October 2026 issue of Megami Magazine's 'Megami's Voice' interview series, opening up about her breakout leading role as Danji Ichigeki in Honoo no Tokkyuujo Dodge Danko. Based on Tetsuhiro Koshita’s fierce sports manga currently serialized in Shogakukan’s Weekly CoroCoro Comic, the anime adaptation brings back the high-octane spirit of classic dodgeball battles with a modern, explosive edge.
Voicing a Human Cannonball
Landing her first-ever protagonist role brought an overwhelming wave of emotion for Nakayama, who recalls celebrating right on the sidewalk after receiving the casting call. When first encountering Koshita’s manga, she was immediately struck by the dynamic artwork, which makes characters and balls feel as though they are physically bursting off the page. Describing Danji as a pure force of nature, Nakayama approached the role by matching the character's unbridled emotional honesty.
Reflecting on the recording sessions, Nakayama admits to severe stage fright during episode one, noting how the welcoming atmosphere fostered by the sound director and veteran co-stars like Kaori Maeda helped her channel that nervous energy into Danji’s explosive vocal performances. From executing intense, multi-stage battle shouts to capturing Danji's surprisingly earnest vulnerability, Nakayama's own dedication mirrors her character's relentless drive on the court.
The Road to the Underground Tournament
As the narrative shifts into the intense Underground Super Dodge Tournament arc, Nakayama teases major character developments for rival teams and emotional payoffs for the supporting cast. Working alongside veteran talent like Mariya Ise—who voices Ran Mido—provided an inspiring masterclass in raw emotional delivery that left the young lead moved to tears inside the recording booth.
With Honoo no Tokkyuujo Dodge Danko currently airing across Japanese television and streaming platforms, Nakayama hopes audiences will tune in to witness the sheer heat of the matches. For fans looking to dive deeper into the production, official updates and broadcast schedules are available via the official Dodge Danko website.
