In the Thousand Year Blood War arc of Bleach, the invasion of the Quincy, led by Yhwach, results in numerous deaths among the Shinigami in Soul Society. Unfortunately, several Captains of the Gotei 13 also perished during this devastating war.
Here’s a list of the latest Gotei 13 captain lineup after the Bleach series. Please be aware that there are major spoilers ahead:
Who are the New Captains Bleach TYBW
1. Shunsui Kyoraku
After the death of Genryusai Shigekuni Yamamoto during Yhwach’s Quincy invasion, Shunsui Kyoraku immediately succeeded him with confidence despite being known as a laid-back captain. His seriousness in this role underscores the respect and authority he commands.
Shunsui has demonstrated remarkable strength by defeating highly ranked adversaries from opposing squads on multiple occasions. Notably, he defeated Stark, the top-ranked Espada.
His Bankai is one of the deadliest in the series, featuring a unique ability that forces opponents to adhere to Shunsui’s “rules.” Even opponents who consider themselves intangible can suffer significant damage while he’s in Bankai, as demonstrated in his battles during the Thousand Year Blood War arc.
2. Soi Fon
Next is Captain Soi Fon of Division 2, a petite yet formidable warrior. She assumed leadership after Yoruichi departed from Soul Society alongside Kisuke Urahara.
Soi Fon is a highly skilled assassin, and her weapon of choice, Suzumebachi, is perfectly suited to her lethal abilities.
Her Shikai manifests a stinger on Soi Fon’s right middle finger. A butterfly mark appears on the wound when she strikes an opponent with it. If Soi Fon attacks the same spot again with Suzumebachi, the target will perish regardless of their defenses.
In its Bankai form, Suzumebachi transforms into a missile-shaped long-range weapon with devastating explosive power.
3. Rojuro Otoribashi
Rojuuro “Rose” Otoribashi, formerly the captain of the 3rd Division a century before the series began, earned his nickname due to his charismatic personality.
Unfortunately, Rose was framed for Aizen’s experiments, leading to his removal from his captaincy, which Gin Ichimaru took over. However, he later reclaimed his position as a Captain of the Gotei 13 once the true culprit was exposed more than 100 years later.
His Zanpakutō can transform into a whip-like weapon and manipulate sound to create powerful shockwaves, showcasing his formidable abilities in combat.
4. Isane Kotetsu
Isane Kotetsu serves as the Captain of the 4th Division, having previously been the lieutenant under Captain Retsu Unohana. Unohana sacrificed herself to unlock Kenpachi Zaraki’s hidden abilities in a battle to the death.
Isane appointed her younger sister, Kiyone Kotetsu, former 3rd Seat in the 13th Division, as her lieutenant.
As the head of the 4th Division, Isane specializes in healing techniques and is considered the second greatest healer after her predecessor, Unohana. She is known for her prompt and adequate medical assistance.
Her zanpakutō, Itegumo, remains sealed in the form of a katana with a dark blue grip and a round, pointed guard resembling a snowflake. However, the true abilities of Isane’s Shikai and Bankai are yet to be revealed.
Isane excels in Kido spells, effortlessly casting high-level spells for various effects.
5. Shinji Hirako
Shinji Hirako, former leader of the Vizard and current Captain of the Gotei 13’s 5th Division, previously served as a lieutenant when Aizen was captain a century ago.
Having both Hollow and Shinigami powers as a Vizard, Shinji’s abilities are enhanced when wearing his Hollow mask, granting him increased strength and speed.
Renowned for possessing one of the strongest Zanpakutos in Bleach, Shinji’s sword, Sakanade, releases an enchanting pink mist when rotated. Those who inhale this mist fall under its spell, causing their senses to become disoriented. This confusion makes it challenging for opponents to adapt, allowing Shinji to defeat them swiftly.
However, Shinji’s Bankai has yet to be revealed, leaving its appearance and abilities a mystery.
6. Byakuya Kuchiki
Byakuya Kuchiki possesses extraordinary talent and an unparalleled work ethic, which enabled him to smoothly ascend to the rank of Captain of the 6th Gotei Division. He inherited this position from his grandfather, who previously held the same rank.
From the outset of the series, Byakuya is established as one of the strongest Shinigami characters. Throughout Bleach, he diligently trains to maintain and strengthen his abilities.
Mastering Bankai, Byakuya’s Senbonzakura is formidable enough to instill fear in even the most seasoned fighters. His sword techniques allow him to manipulate thousands of microblades, granting him precise control over the battlefield.
Byakuya’s adaptable and fluid fighting style has solidified his reputation as one of the most powerful captains in the Bleach universe.
7. Tetsuzaemon Iba
Tetsuzaemon Iba serves as the captain of the Gotei 13 7th Division, taking over from the late Captain Sajin Komamura, who perished during the Thousand Year Blood War arc.
Initially, Iba held the position of fourth seat in the 11th Division, where he was superior to Ikkaku Madarame. However, he transferred to the 7th Division because advancing to lieutenant in the 11th Division was exceedingly challenging.
There were rumors that his desire to become a lieutenant stemmed from a desire to please his mother rather than personal ambition. Consequently, his former comrades in the 11th Division viewed him with disdain, considering other divisions to be weaker.
Despite this, Iba frequently visits the headquarters of the 11th Division, indicating his enduring fondness for combat. Despite his departure from the 11th Division, it’s evident that he still enjoys the thrill of battle.
8. Lisa Yadomaru
After the conclusion of the Thousand Year Blood War arc, Lisa Yadomaru ascends to the role of captain within the Gotei 13. Shunsui Kyoraku, who has risen to become the Captain-Commander, appoints Lisa to this position, having previously served as a lieutenant in the 8th Division.
Lisa wields a formidable weapon capable of demolishing buildings with ease. Although the special abilities of her Zanpakutō remain undisclosed, Lisa has demonstrated her prowess as a formidable fighter.
In battle, Lisa’s Hollow Mask significantly enhances her destructive capabilities, albeit with a time limit of five minutes for its usage.
9. Kensei Muguruma
Kensei Mugurama, the former Captain of the 9th Division, reclaimed his title after Aizen’s defeat, taking it back from Kaname Tousen.
One of Kensei’s distinctive features is the “69” tattoo adorning his chest. While “69” typically symbolizes a sexual position, for Kensei, the “6” represents the kanji for his surname, while the “9” signifies his affiliation with Division 9.
Physically, Kensei is portrayed as a tall, muscular individual with white hair. He outfits himself in combat gear that enhances the power of his punches.
His Zanpakutō, Tachikaze, takes the form of a dagger. It possesses the ability to generate wind blades capable of easily slicing through Hollows, as well as unleashing energy blasts.
10. Toshiro Hitsugaya
Despite his youth, Toshiro Hitsugaya swiftly ascends the ranks of the Shinigami and assumes the role of captain within the Gotei 13. He initially served as a lieutenant under Isshin, Ichigo’s father, who captained the 10th Division. Upon Isshin’s departure, Toshiro stepped into his position.
Toshiro’s Zanpakutō, Hyorinmaru, is of the ice type. In its Shikai state, Hyorinmaru grants Toshiro control over water and ice.
Upon achieving Bankai, Toshiro’s ice manipulation abilities amplify significantly. He can freeze objects to their core with minimal effort, showcasing the immense power at his command.
11. Kenpachi Zaraki
Kenpachi Zaraki, captain of the Gotei 13’s 11th Division, is renowned for his unparalleled combat prowess and physical strength.
His Zanpakutō, Nozarashi, mirrors its wielder’s raw power. In its Shikai state, Nozarashi undergoes a significant transformation, becoming larger and more formidable. This enhancement amplifies Kenpachi’s already formidable damage-dealing capabilities.
Upon entering Bankai, Kenpachi undergoes a dramatic metamorphosis, adopting a demon-like form characterized by heightened strength and speed. His skin takes on a red hue, and he operates purely on instinct, driven by an insatiable thirst for blood.
12. Mayuri Kurotsuchi
Mayuri Kurotsuchi is captain of the 12th Division and serves as the Head of the Shinigami Research Institute. Known for his lethal creations and groundbreaking experiments, Mayuri is regarded as a brilliant yet eccentric scientist.
Often labeled as a mad scientist, Mayuri harbors a relentless curiosity to unravel the mysteries of science.
His Zanpakutō, extensively modified through his experiments, possesses a formidable ability: it emits a deadly poison upon contact, capable of shutting down a victim’s bodily functions. This lethal capability, coupled with Mayuri’s profound scientific insight, renders him a formidable adversary in combat situations.
13. Rukia Kuchiki
Rukia Kuchiki stepped into the role of Captain of the 13th Division following the tragic demise of Jushiro Ukitake during the Thousand Year Blood War.
A beloved character and pivotal figure in the storyline, Rukia holds a special place in the hearts of fans, particularly for her role in transforming Ichigo Kurosaki into a Shinigami.
Notably, Rukia was the first character ever created by Tite Kubo for Bleach. In the manga’s conclusion, she assumes her position as captain, having unlocked her formidable Bankai a decade prior during her battle against the Sternritter.
Rukia’s Zanpakutō, Sode No Shirayuki, is renowned for its unparalleled beauty in Soul Society and rivals Toshiro’s as one of the most robust ice-type blades. In its Shikai state, it boasts five distinct abilities, including three dances.
In addition to her powers with a sword, Rukia possesses adept skills in Kido, further solidifying her standing as a formidable warrior within the Gotei 13. Which captain is your favorite among them all?
