Unveiling the 15 Most Powerful Lieutenants in Bleach: Who Reigns Supreme?

In the world of Bleach, every Division I follow has at least one lieutenant who steps up when the commander is unable to perform their duties. Often referred to as Assistant Captains, these lieutenants primarily handle administrative tasks. However, there are exceptions like Rangiku Matsumoto, who often disregards her desk work, or Renji, who frequently completes assignments in the real world. A classic example of a lieutenant who focuses on paperwork is Izuru Kira. When the position of captain is empty, lieutenants take charge of their respective divisions as well.

As a fan, I’m excited to share my take on the 15 most formidable Lieutenants in the captivating world of Bleach. This article will focus on their strength within the current structure of the Gotei 13 post-Quincy War. However, we might also delve into some former Lieutenants who have yet to ascend to Captain rank. The key qualification is that these characters have never attained Captain status, ensuring they remain eligible for our ranking.

15. Nanao Ise

Division: 1 (formerly 8)
Shikai: Shinken Hakkyōken
Bankai: Not achieved

So far, Nanao Ise’s combat abilities are primarily speculative or derived from specific remarks by Tite Kubo in the series’ databooks, as she hasn’t been depicted fighting yet. However, like many high-ranking Shinigami, she possesses the ability to move swiftly using Shunpo and boasts a substantial reserve of spiritual energy.

Nanao Ise may not have made our list primarily for her Zanjutsu abilities, but her exceptional Kido skills and abundant spiritual energy earned her a place. Her Kido prowess even posed challenges for the Sternritter, an impressive feat. Despite being less skilled with her Zanpakuto, she likely could still defeat Omaeda, thus we chose to begin our list with her.

14. Momo Hinamori

Division: 5
Shikai: Tobiume
Bankai: Not achieved

Regardless of Aizen’s plans, Hinamori has never fallen short compared to other Shinigami. She possesses skills equal to any of her peers, a fact that became evident during her time at the Academy, where she was placed in the top class, alongside future Lieutenants like Kira and Renji. Her abilities were already apparent then.

Though Hinamori may appear emotionally vulnerable due to her deep affection for Aizen, she’s far from weak. She demonstrates impressive Zanjutsu abilities, but what truly sets her apart is her mastery of Kido. This dual expertise makes her a formidable opponent. It’s clear that despite her personal history, Hinamori has earned her place on this list, which is why we have included her here.

13. Yachiru Kusajishi

Division: 11 (formerly)
Shikai: Sanpo Kenjū
Bankai: Not achieved

Yachiru demonstrates an extraordinary level of agility and power; she effortlessly scaled a nearly vertical, towering structure carrying Kenpachi, who is approximately ten times her own weight, on her back, using merely a handful of jumps to reach the rooftop. Reminiscent of Kenpachi, she has a highly developed combat intuition that enables her to instantly identify foes even if they are unfamiliar, and to instinctively counterattack. Furthermore, she possesses an immense Reiatsu that transforms into a pink cat form when enraged.

Among the captivating characters in the series, the enigmatic figure of Yachiru stands out. Her sudden absence has left us pondering if she was a genuine person or merely a reflection of Kenpachi’s Zanpakuto. Regardless, her strength and ability to deliver a powerful punch earned her a place on our list.

12. Hiyori Sarugaki

Division: 12 (formerly)
Shikai: Kubikiri Orochi
Bankai: Not achieved

Previously serving as a Lieutenant, Hiyori boasts an abundant reserve of Spiritual Power, radiating pink Reiatsu. She appears to be an ordinary user of Shunpo, employing it as a supplement to her Zanjutsu and Hakuda techniques. Skilled in the art of Zanjutsu, Hiyori is known for her aggressive, somewhat erratic fighting style, often directing her anger into her assaults. Demonstrating remarkable prowess, Hiyori has effortlessly slain a Gillian and engaged in combat with Tier Harribel.

Hiyori is primarily recognized for her frequent conflicts with Urahara, Shinji, and Ichigo, however, there’s no denying her strength. As a former Lieutenant under Kirio Hikifune, Hiyori was undeniably formidable, as demonstrated during Ichigo’s training. Her Visored abilities significantly boost her power, earning her a place on our list.

11. Yuyu Yayahara

Division: 8
Shikai: Not revealed
Bankai: Not achieved (probably)

Since Yuyu is a recently introduced character, not much information about her has been disclosed. However, it’s speculated that she possesses significant power and skill, as demonstrated during the “Hell arc”. She uniquely manipulates her hands to resemble fierce teeth, which allows her to create and control the head of a massive bear. This formidable ability was displayed when she effortlessly beheaded a Jigoku no Gaki.

It’s no surprise that Captain Yadomaru chose an unconventional character as her Lieutenant. Despite Yuyu appearing to be ordinary, she possesses powerful attacks and techniques. She effortlessly defeated a colossal Hollow from the netherworld, which was more than sufficient for us to include her on this list. Regardless of our lack of knowledge about her abilities at present, this feat alone warranted her a place here.

10. Atau Rindō

Division: 7
Shikai: No fixed name
Bankai: Not achieved

As a Lieutenant, Atau likely possesses a substantial amount of spiritual power (Reiatsu) and is versed in various combat techniques. His abilities and powers, however, remain largely unknown. On the other hand, Rindō’s Zanpakuto appears to lack a fixed name; instead, he can invoke different attacks by inscribing the names of various animals on his Shikai’s blade.

As Lieutenant of Division 7, Rindō undoubtedly is a formidable warrior. This division is renowned for its courage and nobility in combat, so it’s unlikely that Iba would choose someone weak. We’ve only caught a glimpse of his abilities during the “Hell arc,” but based on what we’ve seen, he more than earned his position and also deserves a spot on our list.

9. Kaien Shiba

Division: 13 (formerly)
Shikai: Nejibana
Bankai: Not achieved

From my perspective as a cinephile, the enigma surrounding Kaien’s true combat potential remains veiled, given that he’s primarily showcased agility through Shunpo and remarkable physical prowess, demonstrated by tearing off Metastacia’s tentacles with his bare hands. However, his Zanpakutō was rendered ineffective due to his adversary’s peculiar abilities, leaving us speculating about his mastery of Kidō and combat skills. Despite the strong likelihood that he is an exceptional Kidō user and formidable fighter, his true genius among his generation can only be tentatively affirmed.

Although Kaien Shiba is often spoken about by other characters rather than being directly witnessed, Ukitake must have recognized significant potential in him to make him a lieutenant. Rukia also praised his abilities and intelligence. Aaroniero Arruruerie revealed that Shiba’s Nejibana was an extremely potent and practical Zanpakuto. All these factors contributed to placing Shiba on our list.

8. Nemu Kurotsuchi

Division: 12 (formerly)
Shikai: N/A
Bankai: N/A

Nemu’s powers remain largely unclear, yet it’s evident that she possesses immense strength, capable of flinging a rock several times heavier than itself. Moreover, she can twist her right arm and hand in a way that enables self-drilling through stone. Similar to himself, Mayuri has integrated numerous modifications and chemicals within Nemu’s body, which she can utilize against her adversaries.

Born through artificial creation, Nemu stands out amongst Shinigami due to Mayuri’s craftsmanship. Given her extensive experimentation, she is a formidable combatant. Without the need for a Zanpakuto, she can hold her own against the Sternritter and even the Espada. Toxins and poisons run through her veins, enhancing her already dangerous capabilities.

7. Mashiro Kuna

Division: 9
Shikai: Not revealed
Bankai: Not achieved

Compared to other characters within the Visored series, it’s challenging to rank Mashiro’s power level. A century prior to the storyline depicted in the series, given her ascension to Lieutenant and her ability to overpower a Division Captain like Rose by surprise with remarkable strength and speed while in her Hollow state, it’s reasonable to infer that Mashiro was an exceptionally powerful Shinigami in her time.

During those instances, it became apparent that Mashiro’s talents primarily shine in close-quarter combat, with her excelling in delivering powerful kicks and impressive leaps. Yet, we are unsure of how much her abilities have progressed over the past years, given that she has mastered her mask now, and whether under present conditions, she matches up to a Shinigami Captain remains uncertain.

Mashiro, a character, found herself in the upper echelons of the list primarily due to her status as a Visored. However, it’s not just that single factor that propelled her there; she is also exceptionally skilled. Her abilities remain somewhat mysterious, but Muguruma’s choice of her as his Lieutenant, both then and now, suggests considerable power on her part. A hint of this power was revealed during the Fake Karakura Town arc.

6. Rangiku Matsumoto

Division: 10
Shikai: Haineko
Bankai: Not achieved

In the series, Matsumoto is a character who’s engaged in numerous battles, particularly due to his more significant role compared to other lieutenants in the “filler” episodes of the anime. Yet, he hasn’t had an opportunity to fully demonstrate his full potential. It’s not clear if he’s on a higher level than the other lieutenants, but it remains unproven. Rangiku Matsumoto is renowned for her exceptional control over her Zanpakuto, with her primary strength lying in mastering her Shikai’s special ability, which enables her to tackle large groups of enemies simultaneously.

Rangiku Matsumoto appears quite lovely, but don’t let her looks fool you. She may seem weak due to her beauty, but she is actually an extremely capable and dangerous Shinigami. Moreover, her Zanpakuto possesses a unique ability that is often fatal and incredibly hard to protect oneself against, given her proficiency in wielding it.

5. Izuru Kira

Division: 3
Shikai: Wabisuke
Bankai: Not achieved

Despite Aizen’s malicious intentions leading to Kira’s promotion to lieutenant of the 3rd Division, his abilities are on par with any other Shinigami in that position, making him one of Soul Society’s top warriors. This was underscored by Yamamoto when he assigned Kira the task of guarding one of the four pillars during the battle in Karakura’s replica.

Kira possesses the skill to execute Shunpo swiftly, nearly eluding detection by ordinary eyes. On the other hand, Izuru excels in Zanjutsu, masterfully handling Wabisuke upon release, as evidenced during his skirmishes with Matsumoto and later Abirama. Furthermore, Kira has been observed combining his talents in Zanjutsu with his Shikai’s unique power.

Kira is a Shinigami who might seem weak in appearance, but he is extremely proficient and ruthless in his duties as an executor. This lethal prowess may have been honed under the tutelage of his past mentor, Gin Ichimaru. His Zanpakuto, Wabisuke, is surprisingly effective, making it one of the top weapons in combat, despite requiring close-quarter fighting – a testament to Kira’s mastery of Zanjutsu.

4. Shūhei Hisagi

Division: 9
Shikai: Kazeshini
Bankai: Not revealed

In a simpler, more conversational style: Hisagi is an exceptional Shinigami who holds his own among the Lieutenants. Not only does he match their speed in Hohō and knows up to spell number 73 of Kidō, but he’s honed his Zanjutsu skills so well that he can often defeat opponents wielding released Zanpakutō, even without unleashing his own.

He rarely uses his sword’s Shikai form because he dislikes it, instead opting for it in critical situations. Despite seldom employing them, Hisagi appears to have developed proficiency with them to some degree. In the battle against Findor Carias, we see that he can effectively wield a Kusarigama (the Shikai form of his sword) as well.

Scant information exists regarding his Hakuda skills, however during the Fake Karakura Town Arc, they appeared potent enough to momentarily fend off a furious Yumichika Ayasegawa. This evaluation is primarily based on his physical prowess. Hisagi asserts that he has mastered his Bankai, but its use remains unseen so far.

Among the members of the Gotei 13, Hisagi stands out as an exceptional fighter. His unique fighting style, a result of being Tosen’s disciple, is deeply philosophical. Moreover, he possesses immense strength and wields a potent Zanpakuto. It has been rumored that he is the fourth lieutenant to have activated his Bankai, although this is yet to be confirmed in canonical works. Regardless, there’s no question that he deserves his position of prominence.

3. Ikkaku Madarame

Division: 11
Shikai: Hōzukimaru
Bankai: Ryūmon Hōzukimaru

In terms of Zanjutsu, Ikkaku’s abilities are nearly on par with a captain-level mastery, as stated by Yumichika Ayasegawa. However, it is not definitively clear whether Ikkaku ranks as the second strongest individual in the 11th Division or if he is simply the second strongest male member. This ambiguity arises due to the presence of Yachiru Kusajishi, a female member, whose strength within the division might also be significant.

As a movie reviewer, I’d say: In the heart of the action, Ikkaku, despite being on par with some Lieutenants within the Gotei 13, strategically conceals his capabilities from most. This allows him to stay loyal in the 11th Division under Kenpachi’s command. The tragic twist is that he ultimately meets his end while serving under him. Ikkaku’s Bankai amplifies his Reiatsu by a staggering five to tenfold, a secret weapon only a select few are privy to.

As a devoted movie enthusiast, I’d put it this way: Ikkaku’s Bankai, according to me, isn’t about extraordinary skills; instead, it’s raw power personified. Moreover, he possesses the agility to use Shunpō, but reserves it for formidable adversaries, ensuring our battles stretch longer. In close combat, when opponents are unarmed, Ikkaku can deliver devastating blows with his bare hands. His physical might is such that it inflicts substantial damage on his enemies.

As the third and currently sole Lieutenant to have invoked his Bankai, Madarame undeniably earns a top spot. Beyond this unique achievement, he stands out as one of the strongest and most tenacious fighters within the Gotei 13. His determination often leads him to act rashly, a trait evident in Fake Karakura. However, his heart and exceptional abilities more than justify his high ranking on our list.

2. Renji Abarai

Division: 6
Shikai: Zabimaru
Bankai: Sōō Zabimaru

Renji’s spiritual energy is exceptionally strong, making him unique among many shinigami, according to Hanatarō Yamada. Additionally, Renji demonstrates an uncommon aptitude for learning and advancement in the Gotei, despite his relatively short tenure. His rapid ascent through the divisions is remarkable, as is his acquisition of both Shikai and Bankai abilities.

Renji is exceptionally proficient in the art of Zanjutsu, having been taught by Ikkaku Madarame and subsequently surpassing him. This expertise has enabled him to attain a high level of mastery as a Shinigami, specializing in Zanjutsu. Often, Renji employs his understanding of Zanjutsu techniques along with Zabimaru’s ability to split apart and elongate, which allows him to strike from an unexpected angle, catching his opponents off guard. Renji’s sword is called Zabimaru.

Regarding Renji, given his vulnerable position and extensive background, it’s not hard to understand why he ranks so highly among us. He demonstrated his powerful Bankai, which sets him apart, and is recognized as one of the most rapid learners in the Soul Society. To add to that, he was tutored by Byakuya Kuchiki, a top-tier mentor, but he also trained under Aizen and Kenpachi, further enhancing his abilities.

1. Chōjirō Sasakibe

Division: 1 (formerly)
Shikai: Gonryōmaru
Bankai: Kōkō Gonryō Rikyū

As a Lieutenant within the Gotei 13 and serving as the Captain-Commander’s second-in-command, Chōjirō Sasakibe is presumed to have been an exceptionally powerful Shinigami. Although he was swiftly defeated during the only known battle he engaged in, there are other indications of his prowess – namely, his demonstrated proficiency in Shunpo, a rapid movement ability commonly mastered by high-ranking Shinigami within the Gotei 13.

It appears that he skillfully operates, unlocks, and locks the protective wall around the phony city of Karakura, suggesting a deep understanding of Kidō. His sword, Gonryōmaru, when in its sealed state, resembles a katana with a greenish-yellow handle and a guard shaped like a lotus flower, with two bows on either side – one smaller bow on each side.

The ancient technique called Kokō Gonryō Rikyū is the full manifestation of Chojiro’s sword, Zanpakutō, that he perfected and mastered within a mere month over 2000 years ago. What makes this Bankai particularly perilous is its weather-controlling capacity, allowing it to summon massive electrical storms.

Most viewers tend to overlook Sasakibe due to his minimal role in the storyline and limited screen time in the anime series. However, it’s undeniable that he was the strongest among the Lieutenants; Yamamoto wouldn’t have picked anyone else. He swiftly mastered his Bankai, wielding a highly perilous Banka, making him an undisputable authority who deserves top placement on our list.

Sasakibe is often overlooked by fans because of his minor role in the story and limited screen time in the anime series. Yet, there’s no denying that he was the strongest among the Lieutenants; Yamamoto wouldn’t have chosen anyone else. He quickly mastered his Bankai, had a dangerously powerful Banka, and was clearly an expert who deserved to be ranked at the top.

2025-06-08 11:16