Solo Leveling Is Dangerously Close to Toppling One of Chainsaw Man's Records

Solo Leveling has rapidly become one of the most talked-about anime of 2025, with its second season delivering jaw-dropping moments that continue to captivate fans worldwide. The latest milestone solidifies the series’ popularity, because Solo Leveling season 2, episode 11, has skyrocketed to become the second most-liked episode on Crunchyroll, boasting an impressive 266.3k likes. This achievement puts it within striking distance of the top spot held by Chainsaw Man’s debut episode, which currently stands at 279.3k likes.

The battle for dominance in the anime landscape has never been fiercer, with newer series vying for attention amid established juggernauts. According to @animenewscentre on X, Solo Leveling’s meteoric rise has placed it in direct competition with Chainsaw Man, one of the most hyped anime adaptations of recent years. As fans rally behind Sung Jin-Woo’s journey, the question remains of whether Solo Leveling can dethrone Chainsaw Man’s episode one and claim Crunchyroll’s most-liked episode title?

The Rapid Rise of Solo Leveling’s Popularity

Solo Leveling is Currently the Number 1 Anime in Ratings and Reviews

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Solo Leveling's surge in popularity is no surprise, given its gripping storyline and high-octane action sequences. Adapted from Chugong’s hit web novel, the anime has been a long-awaited adaptation for fans who have followed Jinwoo’s journey since the series’ manhwa days. Season 2 has raised the stakes with intense battles and stunning animation, drawing in both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Episode 11, in particular, was a huge hit with viewers, leading to its rapid accumulation of likes on Crunchyroll.

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Another major factor behind the anime’s success is its accessibility. Unlike some series that require prior knowledge of complex lore or watching over 1,000 episodes, Solo Leveling offers a straightforward yet enjoyable story that hooks audiences instantly. Combined with A-1 Pictures’ stellar animation and a pulse-pounding soundtrack, the series has cemented itself as one of the year’s biggest anime hits. If its momentum continues, Solo Leveling could very well surpass Chainsaw Man’s record.

Chainsaw Man’s Reign at the Top

Chainsaw Man Has Been The Highest Rated Episode for Over 2 Years

Chainsaw Man's debut episode set an unprecedented standard when it premiered, amassing over 279.3k likes and captivating audiences with its unique storytelling and hyper-stylized action. Studio MAPPA’s animation prowess played a significant role in the anime’s success, creating visually stunning sequences that left fans in awe. Denji’s introduction and his tragic yet relatable backstory instantly connected with viewers, making Chainsaw Man a cultural phenomenon right from the start.

However, while Chainsaw Man’s episode one holds the record for now, Solo Leveling’s rapid approach shows a shift in anime fan favorites. The fact that a recent episode of Solo Leveling is so close to overtaking an established juggernaut’s premiere speaks volumes about its staying power. With several episodes still to air, there is a strong chance that Solo Leveling could not only surpass Chainsaw Man’s record but set an entirely new benchmark for anime viewership on Crunchyroll.

Source: @animenewscentre/X