Throwback #96 - In the face, In the face, In the face

I've reiterated before on the Blog that Grimmjow is my second favorite Espada (The 1st is my Queen, Harribel). The moment we met him, it was destined that he'd become a legitimate threat to Ichigo and one who considered him a rival. This distinction is also noted when Ichigo faced Ikkaku, Renji, Kenpachi, & Byakuya. The magnitude of power that the Arrancar(s) held was that or even great than a Shinigami Captain. Though attaining his Bankai, Ichigo is unfortunate as he copes to control the inner-hollow that wishes to consume Ichigo wholly. Grimmjow, having the #6, is much more than just an Arrancar, he's of the Espada ~ 10 Vasto-Lorde Arrancar that are even greater than that of a Shinigami Captain. To see Ichigo getting pummeled by Grimmjow just showcases that Grimmjow wasn't to be underestimated. Even without gong full power, Ichigo was no match. As seen in the gif, Ichigo is mercilessly getting f*cked up. It's weird that this scene was omitted in the Manga, I think it illustrates the magnitude of Ichigo's strength and how far apart he is from an enemy he's never faced before. Overcoming adversity is something Ichigo is fond off, but the first time he clearly was in over his head is when he first encountered Aizen. When he faces Grimmjow, it's clear Ichigo's mind is confident that his skills alone can handle someone of his caliber since just earlier, Ichigo dealt briefly with Yammy (though Ichigo's inner-hollow began to resurface and he later got his @$$ kicked). The point is, this scene is an example of how much progress Ichigo needs to make if he is to fight against Aizen & his army of Arrancar. Arrancar show no remorse, sympathy, and have little interest in the weak. Ichigo has learned from this encounter that if he can't even a henchmen, how far can he go keeping his friends & family safe from harm? Grimmjow's relentless onslaught of one-two punch is just awesome to look at and was a gif I often posted on Myspace (remember those days)?

I hope you enjoyed this week's Throwback. Throwbacks will continue for 4 more weeks. Stay classy as always.