Record of Ragnarok (Episode 18) - Conflicting Motives

Zeus and Odin break up the unofficial fight and then return to watch the next bout. This time it will be humanity’s greatest Sumo Wrestler, Raiden Tameemon versus Shiva, the god of destruction.

Record of Ragnarok (Episode 18) – Conflicting Motives

What happened?

Loki and the Seven Pillars of Heaven were determined to see that Buddha was brought to justice. However, he had Kojiro Sasaki, Isami Kondo and Souji Okita backing him up and they seemed to be itching for a fight. Just before it got interesting Zeus appeared and pounded the floor. He told them to stop fighting and focus on the event. However, it wasn’t until Odin unleashed his fighting spirit that everyone decided to call it a day. Loki was the first to hurry away.

Zeus gave Buddha a warning, but he simply laughed and reminded him that the only person that gives Buddha orders in Heaven or on Earth was Buddha. Meanwhile, Brunhilde made her way to the room of the next fighter to represent humanity. It was a colossal man who they found sleeping among a group of devils and demi-humans. He is Raiden Tameemon, the greatest Sumo Wrestler. Brunhilde woke Raiden and then introduced him to his partner, Thrud, the strongest of the Valkyries. She dwarfed Raiden and seemed concerned that he was staring at her. It’s not what she thinks…

Record of Ragnarok Episode 18 Shiva versus Raiden Tameemon

What did you think?

So, Shiva is going to get his chance to fight after Zeus stole the Adam matchup earlier in the tournament. I have absolutely no idea how this one will go, but I did love the interaction between Raiden and Thrud. He melted her chiselled heart with his stare. Seriously, it was hilarious and I hope we see some more of that, although it will be hard when they’re fighting. I need Raiden to win just so I can see more of Thrud.

It’s interesting that Zeus seems to be concerned about keeping the peace in heaven, and more so that humanity doesn’t build up a lead. No doubt that’s so that he can play his strongest card if needed. Seriously, I doubt anyone would be able to beat Odin. I loved the way Loki saw him get angry and left quicker than anything. This is not the end of Buddha. I can’t wait to see how he gets used in this series.

Record of Ragnarok Episode 18 Raiden Tameemon meets Thrud

What have you learnt?

I think the fights were already going on too long when they were four episodes long so stretching Hercules versus Jack the Ripper over five episodes was a bit much. We also didn’t see nearly enough of Brunhilde who was very much the highlight at the beginning of season one. I hope she gets more time with the Raiden fight as I’ve missed all of her crazy expressions.

I’m certain we’re going to be in for one exciting fight, however, with only four episodes left will there be enough time to finish? Bizarrely, Netflix released the first ten episodes of season two in January 2023 and as of yet, there has been no announcement as to when the remaining five episodes will be available. It seems like an odd tactic from Netflix, but I guess we’ll see if it was worth it. I know Brunhilde can’t be too happy about having to take a break.