Ikkaku Madarame

is the 3rd Seat of the 11th Division in the Gotei 13. His captain is Kenpachi Zaraki.

Appearance
Ikkaku is a tall and lean-built man. He is bald, a fact made fun of by many people, especially 11th Division Lieutenant Yachiru Kusajishi, who calls him either "cue ball", "chrome dome", or "pachinko-head" (as a result of her fondness for giving people nicknames or when he questions her direction skills). Ikkaku's bald scalp is very reflective while under the sun, causing the members of the 8th and 11th Divisions to mistake it for a full moon in one of the omake segments, much to his chagrin. His eyes each have a small red marking at the outer corner. Ikkaku has a scar, which he gained while fighting Ichigo Kurosaki during the Soul Society Arc, running down the left side of his chest. He wears the standard Shinigami robes, with the exception of no tabi with his sandals. Seventeen months after Aizen's defeat, Ikkaku sports a gold-plated pauldron on his right arm with the kanji for "dragon" (龍) printed on it.

Personality
Attitude-wise, Ikkaku is a stereotypical 11th Division member — violent, fight-loving, and rude. This has been noted by Tetsuzaemon Iba, among others. He loves fighting so much he is unwilling to travel anywhere without a sword, resorting to carrying a wooden one when posing as a student at Ichigo Kurosaki's school. Ikkaku is very self-conscious about his baldness, often insisting he's not bald and that his head is "shaven", though it is obvious that it isn't. He will threaten anyone who points this out.

Ikkaku shares many personality traits with his division's captain, Kenpachi Zaraki, which explains why they have such respect for each another. Like Kenpachi, Ikkaku considers fighting fun, and tries to get as much fun as he can, even taking deadly risks to drag out fights for as long as possible. He shares Kenpachi's penchant for limiting his skills to make fights last longer (in his case, using his Bankai, or even his Shikai, as a last resort against his opponents). Ikkaku is seen constantly smiling like Kenpachi when engaging in a fight with a formidable opponent.

Like all 11th Division members, he considers the only honorable battles to be those fought one-on-one. Even the threat of death is not a reason to ignore this fact, as they believe that the winner is only determined when the other dies. In his fight with the Arrancar Choe Neng Poww, Ikkaku was losing badly, yet refused to surrender.

However, Ikkaku does have a sense of loyalty and responsibility, unlike many of the lower-ranked 11th Division members, and is fiercely loyal to his captain, under whose command he wishes to die. He considers surviving an otherwise lost battle good luck, as his captain taught him, and is sensible enough to carry a blood-clotting ointment in the hilt of his Zanpakutō.

History
Not much is known about Ikkaku's history. Ikkaku came from the streets of Rukongai. At some point, he met Yumichika Ayasegawa, and the two became friends. The two would frequently go from village to village, looking for opponents for Ikkaku to face in combat.

They had an encounter with Kenpachi Zaraki and Yachiru Kusajishi before they entered Seireitei. Yachiru warned him that messing with Zaraki while he was in a good mood was a bad idea, but Ikkaku did not take the warning seriously. When face to face with Zaraki, he immediately became alarmed by his reiatsu, but was happy to finally have a real challenge. Zaraki attacked with enough force to crater the ground under Ikkaku, which somewhat alarmed Yumichika. Due to Zaraki's strength, Ikkaku was forced on the defensive, holding off Zaraki's relentless strikes. The two continued to battle, with Ikkaku trying to overwhelm Zaraki, though unable to wear him down, only succeeding in Ikkaku receiving wounds while Kenpachi remained untouched by his blade. When Zaraki mentioned he was having fun, he decided to finish Ikkaku with one quick strike, resulting in Ikkaku's loss of the fight. Ikkaku became mad that Zaraki would just walk away without finishing him off. Zaraki plainly told him he had no interest in weaklings who cannot fight, stating he did not have any obligation to finish Ikkaku off. Ikkaku thought he was toying with him, and demanded that Zaraki kill him. Zaraki lost his patience, grabbed hold of Ikkaku, and asked him if he loved to fight so much, then why was he screaming for death. Zaraki explained to him a philosophy to follow for people like them. "Don't admit defeat and seek death. Die first, then admit defeat. When you lose, but don't die, it just means you were lucky. At those times, think only about survival. Survive, and think only about killing the guy who failed to kill you". Zaraki smiled at him, stating it was not like he went easy on him, he was just lucky to escape death. He expressed that Ikkaku should live and come back to kill him. As Zaraki left, Ikkaku asked him his name, and was told he is Kenpachi from Zaraki.

Afterwards, when he had rehabilitated from his wounds, Ikkaku searched for Zaraki everywhere in order to challenge him, but never could find him, until one day when Ayasegawa came to him with some news. He had heard that Zaraki had beaten the captain of the 11th Division of the Gotei 13 in a single blow, which made him the new captain of said division. Ikkaku was taken aback by this revelation, as he saw that protecting others was not really Zaraki's style, and set out to find his old opponent.

During an address to his division, Zaraki was greeted by Ikkaku and Yumichika, who had become Shinigami and joined the division. Ikkaku told Zaraki he had come back just as he had suggested, which caused Zaraki to smile. Later, they were present when the division battled a caterpillar-like Hollow. While initially the division lost several members, Ikkaku showed up to fight it, but was stopped by Zaraki, who decided to kill it himself. After the Hollow was dispatched, more came, which prompted Ikkaku and Yumichika to join in the fight. Though at first Zaraki was against it, he was persuaded upon realizing the two have fighting traits similar to his.

Sometime later, Ikkaku, while walking around the 11th Division barracks, was greeted by Renji Abarai, a fresh transfer from the 5th Division. Renji asked Ikkaku to train him. The two battled, and Ikkaku was impressed by his new student’s eagerness to excel. When he asked Renji why he wanted to become strong so badly, Renji explained that he has someone he wishes to surpass. They continue to train well into the evening, advancing as far as using their Shikai against each other. Ikkaku tells Renji that they have finished training, and if he wished to learn any more, he would have to figure it out on his own, as Ikkaku did not want Renji to end up mimicking his style. Renji asked him if he had Bankai and why he did not use it, to which Ikkaku replied that he had his reasons, and alluded that he was chasing someone as well. He told Renji his name and instructed him to remember it, as the next time they fight will be to the death. He explains to him why he gives his name to his opponent. As Ikkaku left, Renji thanked him.

Soul Society arc
Ikkaku and Yumichika Ayasegawa are the first Shinigami to encounter Ichigo Kurosaki and Ganju Shiba upon their intrusion into the Seireitei. Ikkaku does his Tsuki-Tsuki dance to give Ichigo and Ganju time to exit their sand pit, and becomes irate when they just stand there looking at him. Ichigo and Ganju get into an argument about possibly fighting, which prompts Ganju to run off. As Yumichika chases after him, Ikkaku is left to fight Ichigo. After resolving why Ichigo didn't run off as well, Ikkaku attacks. Ichigo dodges and attempts to counter, but Ikkaku blocks him with his scabbard. Ichigo breaks free and attacks from above as Ikkaku attacks from below, resulting in small cuts near both their eyes. They exchange names. Ichigo wipes the blood from his brow, to which Ikkaku comments that he doesn't understand, as only a rookie would remove both hands from his sword. Ichigo explains that the blood is getting in his eyes, and Ikkaku chides him, telling him he should find some way of stopping the bleeding so he won’t have to do that, as he applies ointment from a small compartment in the hilt of his sword to his brow, stopping the bleeding of his own wound. Ichigo calls him a cheater, but Ikkaku states that in fact he is just smart. He says Ichigo is weird to him, as his actions are that of a rookie, so he can’t really tell that he is a warrior. But he notes that his reactions are very fast, his attacks are very strong, and his body movements are close to his own. Still unsure of what to make of him, Ikkaku asks Ichigo who his teacher is. Ichigo explains that he only taught him for ten days, so he doesn't know if he a true teacher, but his name is Kisuke Urahara. Ikkaku becomes somewhat surprised, and states that if he is Ichigo's teacher, it would be very rude of him to kill him so easily.

Ikkaku releases his Shikai, much to Ichigo's surprise, and rushes at him. Ikkaku strikes at Ichigo, who dodges and blocks the attack, only to be followed by a flurry of attacks. Ichigo thinks he has the upper hand, stating that it takes longer to attack with a spear, but Ikkaku warns him that he is wrong, swinging at Ichigo's head before it is blocked. Ikkaku surprises Ichigo by saying a second release command, causing his Shikai to split into a three-sectioned staff, forcing Ichigo to react before the spear head can hit him square in the face He blocks with his forearm, creating a deep wound. Ikkaku explains that Hōzukimaru isn't a spear, but a Sansetsuken. Ikkaku states that Ichigo will most likely be unable to use the arm to wield his sword any longer, but is surprised when Ichigo, having used the cloth at the end of his hilt to bandage his arm, attacks. Ikkaku dodges as Ichigo destroys the wall behind him with a single downward slash. Ichigo states that it seemed like Ikkaku finished talking, but he doesn't know Ichigo's sword, and that next time, he will be the one who won’t be able to hold his weapon. Ikkaku goes on the offensive once again and attacks. They continue to battle, with Ikkaku gaining the upper hand, until Ichigo notes he is getting used to fighting against his weapon. Ikkaku is noticeably surprised when Ichigo stops Hōzukimaru with one hand. Ichigo, going on the offensive, cuts Ikkaku's Hōzukimaru in half, cutting deeply into the center of his chest at the same time. Ikkaku laughs, telling Ichigo he should give up since he can still hold his sword, and spins the bladed end as he advances. Ichigo yells at him to put it away, having already lost, but Ikkaku refuses, stating that he will only lay down his weapon when he is dead, and he will never walk away from a fight like a coward. The two collide, resulting in Hōzukimaru breaking further, and a grievous wound is dealt to Ikkaku's arm. As he falls to the ground unconscious, he comments that Ichigo was too strong.

Ikkaku wakes up, wondering why he is still alive, and is greeted by Ichigo. He asks him why he is still there, to which Ichigo replies no reason. He tells Ikkaku that he just found out Zanpakutō return to their sealed form when their owner is knocked unconscious. When Ikkaku realizes Ichigo has his Zanpakutō, he yells at him to give it back. Ichigo tells him he had no intention of keeping it; he just borrowed some of the ointment, noting that he used it all between the two of them. Ikkaku is surprised that Ichigo helped him, and becomes irate at the thought of having been saved by his own enemy. Ichigo asks him where he can find Rukia Kuchiki. Though initially unsure of why Ichigo would want to know, upon hearing that he has come to save her, Ikkaku begins to laugh, causing the wound on his head to open. He says there is no way 5 people and a cat can save her from the Gotei 13, though he eventually tells him where she is being held. He warns him that if he is the strongest in his group, he should watch out for his captain, Kenpachi Zaraki, who will surely be looking for him. When Ichigo asks Ikkaku if his captain is strong, Ikkaku states he'll know if he sees him, and in fact, he'll know his strength if he survives the meeting.

While recovering from his injuries at the 4th Division's headquarters, he is given an unsanctioned interrogation by Mayuri Kurotsuchi, to whom he tells no details of his fight. Disturbed that Ikkaku has nothing to offer as far as information, he states that he will need to be punished for his behavior. Mayuri is promptly stopped by Zaraki, who asks him since when has he had authority over members of other divisions. Mayuri quickly leaves, and Ikkaku tells Zaraki about what direction Ichigo went and why he was there. He provides a description and how he told him who Zaraki is. He remarks that his strength is great, and states that he will most likely keep getting stronger.

When the 11th Division decides to help Orihime Inoue, they are met in resistance by the captains of the 7th and 9th Division, along with their respective lieutenants. Ikkaku and Yumichika intercede, wishing to fight against the lieutenants, as they think that they are not good enough to take on Zaraki. Ikkaku is called out to fight by Tetsuzaemon Iba, who states that it has been some time since they last saw each other, and that his insulting loud mouth has gotten sharper. Ikkaku retorts that he is one to talk, making note that Iba left the 11th Division because he couldn't become lieutenant. The two leave to fight elsewhere.

Later, Ikkaku and Iba are seen resting after their battle, drinking with each other. Ikkaku makes a comment about a lightning strike, and Iba scolds him for being ignorant, as it was not a lighting strike, but Kidō, and it wouldn't have reached them, as it was a targeted attack. Iba states that Ikkaku has not improved one bit, as he still knows nothing of Kidō. Ikkaku tells Iba he was never interested in Kidō anyway, stating that unlike him, his mother didn't make him a "do it all" type of guy. Iba explains that he wasn't always so good, but instead of focusing on one thing, being well rounded means a better chance at a promotion to lieutenant. After engaging in a small argument about Iba always drinking too much of Ikkaku's booze, they fight again.

Soon afterwards, Ikkaku hears the message from lieutenant Kotetsu about the traitorous actions of 5th Division captain Aizen.

Sometime after Aizen's defection from Soul Society, 6th Division lieutenant Renji Abarai approaches Ikkaku, asking him to take the vacant captain's position of the 5th Division. Ikkaku firmly refuses, but Renji is adamant. He explains that there aren't any other lieutenants who can use Bankai, and even if there were, he would be the only one qualified. He affirms that Ikkaku could have any vacant spot, and that he should be the next captain. Ikkaku reminds Renji that he told him long ago, when he trained him to fight, that he had no intention of telling anyone besides him and Yumichika he is capable of Bankai. If it got out, he would have others telling him the same thing. Ikkaku explains that he has no intention of becoming a captain because it would mean he could no longer fight under Captain Zaraki. He further explains that just as Renji's desire is to surpass Captain Byakuya Kuchiki, his is to fight and die under the command of Captain Kenpachi Zaraki. He tells Renji that if he understands, he won’t ask him again.

Bount arc (anime only)
Note: Events occurring in this arc are only in the anime and do not constitute canon material.

Arrancar arc
Ikkaku, along with Yumichika Ayasegawa, Rangiku Matsumoto, Renji Abarai, and Rukia Kuchiki, is part of the advanced force led by Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya to defend Karakura Town from the threat of the Arrancar. To aid in their mission, they dress as students at Ichigo Kurosaki's school. Later, he almost beats up Keigo Asano, but is stopped by Rangiku, who slaps him in the head, warning him that if he doesn't stop, she will tell on him to his lieutenant Yachiru Kusajishi, to which he immediately apologizes.

While Ichigo speaks to Rukia in his room, Ikkaku and the 3 others pop out of a ceiling light and make their way into the room, much to Ichigo's displeasure. Kon becomes enamored with Rangiku's bosom and runs toward her, but she knocks him away, prompting Ikkaku to ask Ichigo if the reaction is some kind of trend in his world, to which Ichigo replies no, it's just the way Kon is. When asked where they will stay, as Ichigo says they cannot all stay at his house, Ikkaku leaves, stating that he and Yumichika will find a place to stay somewhere. Ikkaku is later seen atop a building with Yumichika having a conversation about how it’s impossible for them to have such well made rice balls with artistic wrapping without something more going on, as it's too much for one person to make so many of them.

When the 6th Espada, Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez, leads an attack on the living world, Ikkaku is seen with Yumichika, ready to face the oncoming enemies. Ikkaku is left to fight one of Grimmjow's Fracción, Edrad Liones. Edrad motions to Ikkaku, telling him he has no luck at all because he has to fight him. Ikkaku is attacked and sent flying through a nearby building. He notices a scared and confused Keigo Asano, who is wondering what is going on. He asks Keigo if he can stay with him, noting that if he takes care of the Arrancar, it will save his life, and therefore they would be helping each other out. After Keigo says yes, Ikkaku asks the Arrancar what his name is. The Arrancar gives his rank, but stops himself, stating that there is no point in telling him anymore; all he needs to know is that he is the one who will tear him apart. Ikkaku is put off by this, and tells the Arrancar about the concept of the "Last Courtesy". He tells Edrad his name and rank.

As the two fight, Edrad tells him if that is all he can do with his Zanpakutō, it would serve better as a waist ornament, as blades won't cut the Hierro of an Arrancar. Edrad tries to goad him, stating that a Shinigami who refuses to release his Zanpakutō is a shame, but Ikkaku simply retorts that he is the one who needs to release.

They continue to fight, and Edrad is easily overpowered by Ikkaku's unique style of fighting using both his Zanpakutō and sheath. Analyzing his fighting style, Edrad realizes the attacks of his blade come from his right hand, while the left defends using the Zanpakutō’s sheath, and thinks he now has the upper hand. But Ikkaku surprises him, switching the sheath and blade, and slashes Edrad's face, breaking the remains of his mask in two. Ikkaku tells him that he was lucky, as he was going for his head. Ikkaku spits out two teeth, telling Edrad that channeling his reiatsu into his hands has lost him two molars, but resigns to replacing them later. Ikkaku explains that in 5 or 6 more attacks, Edrad will need to release his Zanpakutō. Edrad mocks Ikkaku for boasting of his own prowess when he should be cowering in fear at the opponent he will surely lose to. Edrad releases his Zanpakutō and finally introduces himself.

Edrad explains to Ikkaku the true power of an Arrancar's release. Edrad's Resurrección increases his reiatsu dramatically, and he quickly gains the upper hand, overwhelming Ikkaku with ease. As the fight is taken to the sky, Ikkaku release his Shikai, but Edrad suddenly appears and smashes him into the ground, leaving a crater around him. As Ikkaku tries to get up, he is told by the Arrancar to give up gracefully, as there is no need for him to be beaten into nothing. Refusing to give up, Edrad gives him a finishing blow, creating a column of flame which extends into the sky. When the smoke clears, Ikkaku has managed to withstand the blow, holding Edrad's fist upon his back, despite the fact that he is greatly wounded and Hōzukimaru is broken into two pieces.

When Edrad lifts up his fist, Ikkaku explains that there was never a difference in their power. Stating that the others are in similar fights and won't notice, Ikkaku tells Edrad to be quiet and promise not to tell anyone about what he is about to see. He releases his Bankai. Ikkaku tells him that this is his Bankai, Ryūmon Hōzukimaru. The two, taking to the sky, continue their fight. Ikkaku easily cuts, through Volcanica, right down the middle knuckles of Edrad's fist. Before the Arrancar notices him, Ikkaku attacks from above. When Edrad tries to block, the blade cuts deep into his forearm, forcing Edrad to ignite his flames to push Ikkaku back. Ikkaku begins to swing around his Bankai, and when he sees that Edrad has realized his reiatsu is rising, Ikkaku explains that Hōzukimaru is, in high contrast to himself, a "lazy bum", and needs to be awoken, either through battle or by his current movements. Putting all of his strength into one final attack, Edrad does the same, and both of the fighters collide in a large explosion. When the smoke clears, Ikkaku's Bankai breaks into different pieces, and he falls face first into the ground below, followed by Edrad, who has lost his left arm and the left side of his abdomen.

Afterwards, both Ikkaku and Yumichika go to Keigo Asano's home as a part of an earlier agreement for saving him from the Arrancar. At first, Keigo tries to get them thrown out, hoping his sister, Mizuho Asano, is against it; she instead praises his actions, even giving Ikkaku and Yumichika food and clothes. It is revealed that this is because Mizuho has a thing for guys with "shaved heads."

Days later, while Ikkaku is meditating, the others are trying to attain Bankai causing Rangiku and Yumichika to get into a small altercation with their Zanpakutō since they are too similar to them. They are summarily yelled at by Hitsugaya. He is alerted, along with the others, of the arrival of an invasion force led by Grimmjow's replacement, Luppi Antenor. He and Yumichika face off against Luppi, who introduces himself as the 6th Espada. Luppi becomes bored, and insists that they all fight against him 4 on 1, since he is going to release and take them all on as a group. Ikkaku is surprised at Luppi's release, which gives him 8 tentacles to control. Luppi attacks Ikkaku, Rangiku, and Yumichika all at once, beating them up a good amount before taunting them. Ikkaku yells as Yumichika and Rangiku are eventually ensnared, along with the others, by one of Luppi's many tentacles. The Arrancar takes notice of Rangiku, taking note that she has a nice body. He states that it is so nice and sexy and, asking if he should fill it with holes, reveals his tentacles' ability to manifest spikes, proceeding to skewer her on them. But before she can be done in by the attack, the tendril is cut off of Luppi by a blast of energy from Kisuke Urahara. Luppi recaptures her while Urahara takes on Yammy, allowing Luppi to taunt her for being so careless. Luppi threatens her, but is surprised as his other tentacles are frozen by Hitsugaya, who uses his Sennen Hyōrō technique to crush the Arrancar. Luppi escapes death due to Negación, having only been incapacitated by the ice.

Upon learning that Orihime has followed the Arrancar back to Hueco Mundo, Ikkaku and the rest of his team return to Soul Society to prepare for the war against Aizen.

The New Captain Shūsuke Amagai arc (anime only)
Note: Events occurring in this arc are only in the anime and do not constitute canon material.

Fake Karakura Town arc
When Aizen, along with his three top Espada, attack fake Karakura Town, Ikkaku, along with Yumichika Ayasegawa, Shūhei Hisagi, and Izuru Kira, is left to protect the four pillars which keep the real Karakura Town in Soul Society. He begins a battle with one of Baraggan Louisenbairn's Fracción, Choe Neng Poww. Upon seeing the large Arrancar, Ikkaku states that he prays he's as tough as he looks. Poww asks who he prays to, wondering if Shinigami pray to a god. Ikkaku is perplexed by the concept too. Realizing he doesn't really pray to any god, he decides that it doesn't matter; he'll just pray to the Arrancar's guide. Poww states that they have no problem then, as their god and king knows full well he is no match for him.

Unlike the three others, who are successful in defending their pillars, Ikkaku is defeated in his fight against Poww, who destroys the pillar he was guarding. Poww mentions that he thought Ikkaku has something more up his sleeve, but if he is dead, then he would guess not. As Ikkaku tries to get up, Poww steps on his back, causing him to scream out in pain. Poww is happy that he still lives, and asks him to show him what he has left. As Poww tries to force him to give in or die, Ikkaku remains defiant, replying that he has nothing left, and that even if he did, he wouldn't waste it on him. Before Poww can finish him off, 7th Division captain Sajin Komamura punches Poww, and 7th Division lieutenant Tetsuzaemon Iba stops more of the real town from appearing, Poww sends Komamura flying a considerable distance away with a single punch and uses his Resurrección, Calderón. Iba grabs Ikkaku and runs, stating that they are no match for someone who just sent his captain flying. Komamura flash steps back a few moments later with no injuries and intercepts an attack by Poww. He proceeds defeats a released Poww with his Bankai.

As Captain Komamura's Bankai dissipates, Ikkaku looks on in amazement. Iba interrupts him, saying that Captain Komamura's Bankai is amazing, noting that the difference between the captain's Bankai and his is like night and day. Ikkaku looks on in shock as Iba asks him if he didn't think he'd notice, and promises not to tell his captain. He scolds Ikkaku, telling him his job was to protect the pillar, and yet it was destroyed. He further tells Ikkaku the reason why is because he wants to hide his strength. Iba states that he doesn't care if Ikkaku dies because he wants to hide his strength, but he shouldn't disobey orders to do so. Making note that Ikkaku's stubbornness has cost them in battle, Iba tells him that so long as he is in the Gotei 13, he must obey orders, even if it means crushing his stubbornness and pride. Though Ikkaku tries to explain himself, Iba punches him in the face, making Ikkaku irate. He tries to fight back, but is easily pushed to the side. Iba asks him why he would attack head-on in his condition, as there is no point in coming at him head-on if he is just going to get crushed. He notes that he has to win, even if it means running away or sneaking up from behind. Ikkaku immediately states that it is something a coward would do, and that he is no coward, which prompts Iba to yell at him to get stronger and win, even at the cost of his life. Ikkaku notices captain Komamura standing behind Iba. He wiggles his ears and tells them not to worry, as his ears appear to be failing him today.

Zanpakutō Unknown Tales arc (anime only)
Note: Events occurring in this arc are only in the anime and do not constitute canon material.

Beast Swords arc (anime only)
Note: Events occurring in this arc are only in the anime and do not constitute canon material.

Gotei 13 Invading Army arc (anime only)
Note: Events occurring in this arc are only in the anime and do not constitute canon material.

The Lost Substitute Shinigami arc
After Ichigo appears to regain his Shinigami powers, he is mocked by Kūgo Ginjō, who states that it only looked that way, since he had stolen all of his powers and Rukia would only manage to give him some of her power. However, Renji calls him an imbecile, and reveals the presence of himself along with Ikkaku, Kenpachi, Hitsugaya, and Byakuya, who are all observing the situation. Renji reveals that they all, including Ikkaku, gave some of their reiatsu to the sword, which was created by Urahara to allow Ichigo to regain his old powers again once Rukia stabbed him with it. Renji explains that Yamamoto ordered them to help restore Ichigo's powers, and Hitsugaya reveals that Kūgo is the original Substitute Shinigami. After Giriko tells Ichigo that he will experience his Fullbring's power through them, Ikkaku says that he's being too cocky. Ichigo says he'll take care of them, and Ikkaku is surprised at this. After Yukio explains the new powers of his Fullbring, he is apparently stabbed in the back by Ikkaku, who says Ichigo is being too lax and not to hold back at this stage in the battle. He says that Ichigo should kill them properly. Suddenly, an attack comes at him from behind, but it is parried by Hitsugaya, who tells Ikkaku to keep his guard up. Ikkaku apologizes. Moe Shishigawara attacks, but Ikkaku dodges and asks his attacker who he is. Yukio uses his Fullbring to bring him and Shishigawara into a chat room. Ikkaku faces off against Shishigawara, who surprises Ikkaku with the devastating power of his Fullbring-enhanced punches, which fell the trees around them. While trying to figure it out how Moe is able to do that despite his appearance, Ikkaku is caught off guard, and Moe lands a direct blow on his shoulder, dislocating it. While Moe brags about his accomplishment, Ikkaku shocks him by flexing his muscles to pop the shoulder back into place.

As the fight continues, Moe manages to break the blade off of Hozukimaru's shaft, prompting Ikkaku to discard his Zanpakutō and fight Moe barehanded. While Moe lands several seemingly critical hits on Ikkaku, he continues to fight as if unaffected. Eventually, it is realized by both fighters that Moe's Fullbring gradually runs out of luck as the fight continues, making his hits less effective. Moe manages to land one more devastating blow onto Ikkaku's stomach, but Ikkaku grabs Moe's head and knocks him out with a powerful headbutt, bragging that he is the luckiest man in the Gotei 13. As Ikkaku begins to leave, his leg is grabbed by Moe, who refuses to give up. Ikkaku applauds his determination, but tells Moe not to pointlessly throw away his life. Moe replies that he already gave his life to Tsukishima. Ikkaku asks if Tsukishima is just as willing to die for Moe and calls him a fool, saying that pointlessly throwing his life away for someone that doesn't respect him is the act of an attention-seeking brat. Ikkaku states that he will strike Moe down with all his force if Moe decides to attack.

After Yukio shuts down the chatrooms, Ikkaku meets with Kenpachi and Yachiru. He comments on how Kenpachi came out of the pocket dimension early, only for him to reply that he was late. They notice Renji coming out of some bushes. Ikkaku scolds him for his condition and asks if he defeated his opponent. Kenpachi asks Ikkaku how he came out of his dimension. Ikkaku tells him he lectured his opponent for a bit and the latter took off. This angers Kenpachi, who scolds his subordinate for such behavior. Along with the captains, he looks on as Ichigo breaks apart the last remaining pocket dimension with his Bankai. Having fulfilled their mission, Ikkaku and the captains prepare to return to Soul Society.

The Thousand-Year Blood War arc
Ikkaku, along with Yumichika, heads to Rukongai. Yumichika asks if he heard the news. Ikkaku says he did, stating that people at Rukongai can't vanish on their own, and they shouldn't underestimate their division. Ikkaku and other members of the Eleventh Division investigate District 64 of Rukongai, called Sabitsura, where people have been disappearing. Yumichika observes that there is nobody left, while Ikkaku states that there had been people when he had first got the report, meaning that the disappearances are ongoing. Yumichika argues that maybe they left and went somewhere else, not wanting to stay in a place where people disappear, but Ikkaku rebuffs this, reminding him that the Shinigami Research and Development Institute would have known if they had simply moved. One of their subordinates informs them that not even one child can be found, while another brings them to a group of footprints that lead to one place before disappearing. They both notice that each set of footprints has one foot bare while the other has a sandal. Yumichika concludes that a Hollow is not responsible for the disappearances, and Ikkaku orders that they continue searching for clues.

When the Vandenreich begin their invasion of Soul Society, Ikkaku, along with Yumichika, is among the Shinigami who goes out to the battlefield. Later, Ikkaku is notified by Rin Tsubokura that Ichigo is currently heading to Soul Society. Some point later, Ikkaku and other members of the Gotei 13 are surprised to sense Ichigo Kurosaki finally enter Soul Society. After the fighting ends and the Vandenreich withdraw, Ikkaku is brought to the medical compound for treatment. He is restrained due to restlessly shouting that his captain could not have died.

Powers & Abilities
Master Swordsmanship Specialist: Despite being ranked as 3rd seat officer in his division, his rank does not reflect his fighting abilities, which are of near-captain level. According to Yumichika Ayasegawa, Ikkaku is the 2nd strongest man in the 11th Division. He uses a fighting style noted to be rough but powerful and complex movements which allow him to lunge with his sword from the left and defend with his sheath at the right, though he is ambidextrous and can easily switch between the two techniques. Ikkaku commonly fights with his sword held in a normal grip and the sheath held in reverse grip, showing his mastery of the two variations of swordfighting. He uses misdirection in his attacks, and even though doing so allows for holes in his defense, he is more than capable of making up for it with surprise attacks. His mastery of this skill is great enough that Renji Abarai begged Ikkaku to train him.


 * Naginatajutsu Master: Ikkaku's Zanpakutō is a Naginata-type weapon while in Shikai form. Ikkaku uses it perfectly against other sword-type weapons.


 * Bōjutsu Master: Though Ikkaku's Zanpakutō is a Naginata-type weapon while in Shikai form, it can split apart into a three-sectioned staff and back into a Naginata. While in its split form, he is highly proficient in the use of techniques similar in use to that of bo to take advantage of its versatility.

Shunpo: Ikkaku has been seen using Shunpo frequently, though he only uses it to keep up with stronger opponents; this way, he can fight more.

High Spiritual Power: Though only a 3rd Seat, Ikkaku boasts a high spiritual power, and has the spiritual power level of a lieutenant of the Gotei 13. His spiritual energy is red.

Enhanced Strength: Ikkaku possesses a high level of strength. He blocked a punch from Edrad Leones in his released state, even while severely injured. Several of his opponents have commented on the strength of his blows. In addition, it has been shown that his muscle control is highly developed. After having a shoulder dislocated, he was able to reset it by flexing his muscles.

Enhanced Endurance: Similar to his captain, Ikkaku has an incredibly high level of endurance, able to ignore most injuries without noticeably affecting his performance. During his fight against the released Arrancar Edrad Liones, despite taking great injuries, he was still able to fight on, use his Bankai, and ultimately defeat the Arrancar. During his fight against Moe Shishigawara, even after taking several critical hits to the point of coughing up blood, he still fought on, smiling, and defeated Moe.

Hakuda Expert: Before he became a Shinigami, Ikkaku was always roaming around looking for fights. Most opponents did not have swords, so he frequently fought barehanded. He won against everyone he fought, and upon seeing his strength, most people fled from him. When Moe breaks his Zanpakutō, Ikkaku resorts to fighting unarmed, and swiftly defeats the Fullbringer.

Zanpakutō
Hōzukimaru redirects here. For the manifested spirit that appears in the Zanpakutō Unknown Tales arc see Hōzukimaru (spirit).


 * It resembles any regular Zanpakutō when sealed; however, the hilt is hollow to store a small vial of healing ointment, which Ikkaku can access by removing the hilt's pummel. Hōzukimaru's tsuba is an oval, with what look like three small teardrops in relief on both the top and bottom end. Rarely wearing it at his side like most Shinigami, Ikkaku usually carries Hōzukimaru's sealed form in his hand to enable him to quickly access it in battle, and wields its sheath in his other hand to serve as a secondary weapon.


 * Shikai: Its Shikai command is . Hōzukimaru's Shikai is unusual in that Ikkaku slams Hōzukimaru's hilt (and sometimes its pommel) into its sheath to activate it when saying the command phrase. Once activated, Hōzukimaru takes on the form of what initially appears to be a Kikuchi Yari (spear) with a wax wood shaft. The pommel has a red horsehair tassel. While able to deliver powerful blows, it is not very durable, and tends to break against particularly strong strikes.


 * Shikai Special Ability: Ikkaku uses the command to separate his naginata into its true form, which is a, after which the sections can independently reconnect and separate again at will. This special ability surprises one's opponents when they first attack. These chains are able to extend a fair length, allowing Ikkaku to swing his weapon like a flail for mid-range attacks.


 * Bankai: : It keeps the three-section theme, but loses its naginata properties. Instead, it is merely three over-sized weapons connected by an equally large chain. To activate it during his battle with Edrad, Ikkaku slams the two broken pieces of his Shikai back into the spear-form and says Bankai. Ikkaku's two main weapons are a Chinese Monk's spade and a standard Guan dao. Both have a traditional horsehair tassel at the hilt, and a long, cylindrical weight for a pommel. The pommels are connected by a heavy chain to the center section, which resembles an axe blade, with a parallel handle forged into the blunt end and a dragon crest on one side of the blade. Despite all three weapons being of near-ridiculous proportions, Ikkaku wields them easily. Ikkaku usually holds one blade in each hand and lets the central portion "float" behind him, though he will occasionally spin the entire configuration about using the center handle as a pivot. According to Mayuri Kurotsuchi, it is considerably weaker after having been destroyed by Edrad.


 * Bankai Special Ability: Ikkaku's Bankai, like his Shikai, is quite unusual. Aside from the increase in power, his Bankai offers no special abilities and no special defensive properties. It sinply releases some reiatsu, which starts to grow in strength. Ikkaku treats Hōzukimaru different than other Bankai users treat their Zanpakutō, as they just let theirs slumber and use it when they want to do Bankai. But if he forces it to awaken suddenly, cutting the enemy and not getting cut becomes a lot harder to handle than it should be. Thus, Ikkaku's Bankai gets increasingly more powerful as the fight drags on. After he performs his Bankai, the dragon crest slowly fills with crimson dye as Ikkaku's Spiritual Pressure rises. It fills faster when he spins Hōzukimaru with the center handle. Ikkaku comments that his Zanpakutō is actually very lazy in battle (in stark contrast to Ikkaku himself) and needs to be woken up through causing or receiving injury, which explains its ability to accumulate attacking power the longer the fight extends. When the crest is completely filled, Hōzukimaru is at its full power. However, the force of unleashing so much power can leave his Zanpakutō's edge brittle under excessive stress.

Trivia

 * In the last character popularity poll, Ikkaku came in at 22nd. In the 2nd, he placed 22nd and in the 3rd, 27th.
 * Ikkaku Madarame's Hōzukimaru came 13th in the Zanpakutō poll. His Bankai, Ryūmon Hōzukimaru, came in at 27th.
 * He co-authors Manly Silence with Tetsuzaemon Iba, and has his own column titled You're In Luck, You're On A Roll, both in the Seireitei Communication.

Quotes

 * (To Ichigo Kurosaki) "Ichigo is it? That's a nice name. Men with the word Ichi in their names are often powerful and talented."


 * (To Ichigo Kurosaki) "I just can't understand. Even though there's a fair amount of distance between us, when two people are engaged in a fight, only a rookie would remove a hand from his sword."


 * (To Ichigo Kurosaki) "What are you talking about? We're still fighting! One of us will die before it's over! I, Ikkaku Madarame, 3rd Seat of Zaraki's Division, will never walk away from a fight like a coward!"


 * (To Ichigo Kurosaki) "Damn... How could I not die after losing so much blood! What a shame to get saved by the enemy. Damn, if only I could move, I would kill you right now!"


 * (To Tetsuzaemon Iba) "I was never interested in Kidō in the first place. Unlike you, my mom didn't make me a do-it-all kind of guy at birth."


 * (To Edrad Liones) "You sure have a different way of getting down to business. "To announce your name and rank" is a custom taught to us when we learn how to fight. It's known as the last courtesy. If a person dies in combat, at least you get to know the name of the one that brought death to you. Third Seat of Zaraki's Division, Ikkaku Madarame. As for the lowlifes who ignore this etiquette, I simply kill them, after they know who did them in. 


 * (To Edrad Liones) "Cut the flattery. You can stop your admirations. It's only natural to show our true levels of reiatsu. Whether it is worthy of praise is something you will learn after you die."


 * (To Renji Abarai) "Idiot. I told you long ago when I taught you how to fight, didn't I? That I have no intention of telling anyone besides you and Yumichika, that I have Bankai. If it got out that I can use Bankai, there'd be others besides you telling me to become a captain. I have no intention of becoming a captain. Becoming a captain would mean that I can't fight under Captain Zaraki. If you wish to surpass Captain Byakuya Kuchiki, then I only have one wish. To fight and die under that man's command."


 * (To Ichigo Kurosaki) "You're too soft, Ichigo. You really think you're gonna win a fight like this without taking any lives? Finish them off properly! That's how you show respect to the enemy who started this battle."


 * (To Moe Shishigawara) "No man's life is worth more than another! If you're gonna put your life on the line, you do it as equals! I don't care if you're brothers, or master and apprentice, or whatever! You should only die for a guy who'd die for you! There's nothing honorable about throwing your life away as though it's nothing! That's just showing off like a kid!"

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