After weeks of passionate voting, spirited debate, and more than a little bracket chaos, we’ve reached the Championship Round of AniMarch Madness 2026!
What began as a field of 64 anime (plus a number of play-in matches) and has drawn thousands of votes from fans throughout the tournament now comes down to just two. And fittingly, this year’s final is a matchup of champions.
Championship Matchup
- Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood vs. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End
Both of these series know what it’s like to stand at the top of the AniMarch Madness mountain. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood dominated the tournament in its early years, claiming four straight titles from 2016 through 2019. Meanwhile, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is the defending two-time champion, undefeated in its now three years (17-0) of participating in the tourney.
In other words, this is a showdown between two dynasties: a legendary classic and a modern masterpiece.
How They Got Here
The semifinal round produced decisive results. In fact, both winners advanced by exactly the same margin, each claiming victory 72% to 28% over their opponents:
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood def. Haikyuu
Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End def. Spy x Family
That sets the stage for what could be the most intriguing matchup of the entire tournament. Will the longtime titan reclaim the throne, or will the undefeated and reigning champion continue its remarkable run?
How to Vote
As in previous rounds, all voting takes place on Discord and Instagram. Be sure to follow us on Instagram to participate in the poll and join our Discord community to discuss the matchup, campaign for your favorite series, and enjoy the final round together.
One anime will emerge as the AniMarch Madness 2026 champion.
Go vote to help us determine who!
