Anime Desk – Updated Edition
While the Phantom Troupe continues to dominate discussions about Hunter x Hunter’s most dangerous antagonists, the world of the series is filled with equally terrifying villains operating outside the Spiders. These non-Phantom Troupe foes possess monstrous strength, advanced Nen mastery, and influence capable of shaking nations. Here is a power-based ranking of the strongest non-Troupe villains — from weakest to strongest.
9. Baise
A minor antagonist during the Yorknew City arc, Baise’s Nen ability Instant Lovers allowed complete control over her opponents with a kiss. Though dangerous in close combat, her weakness against long-range fighters places her at the bottom of the list.
8. Rammot
One of the early Chimera Ant officers, Rammot’s raw aggression and Nen awakening made him far deadlier than most Hunters expected. His lack of strategy kept him from reaching his true potential.
7. Morel’s Disciples — Cheetu
Cheetu’s incredible speed made him a nightmare opponent. However, his impatience and childish personality prevented him from ever mastering Nen in a useful way, costing him his life.
6. Shaiapouf (“Pouf”)
One of Meruem’s Royal Guards, Pouf possessed extraordinary intellect, Nen refinement, and manipulation skills. His combat power wasn’t the highest, but his strategic cruelty and loyalty to Meruem made him a major antagonist.
5. Neferpitou (“Pitou”)
Often considered one of the scariest villains in Hunter x Hunter, Pitou demonstrated strength that dwarfed even the strongest Hunters. Their Nen aura alone terrified seasoned professionals. From healing miracles to monstrous combat skills, Pitou was a force of pure destruction.
4. Youpi
Youpi had the most overwhelming physical power among the Royal Guards. His rage-based transformation and massive energy reserves made him nearly unstoppable in combat, outlasting even elite Hunters.
3. Hisoka Morow
Sometimes ally, sometimes villain — Hisoka remains unpredictable and deadly. His Bungee Gum Nen ability, coupled with genius-level creativity in battle, allows him to defeat even stronger opponents through planning and adaptability. His ranking soared after he declared war on the Phantom Troupe.
2. Meruem
The Chimera Ant King stands as one of the most iconic antagonists in anime history. Meruem possessed unmatched strength, intelligence, and Nen evolution — making him an almost perfect being. Even the strongest Hunters stood no chance in a direct fight.
1. Don Freecss (Theoretical Ranking)
While still shrouded in mystery, Don Freecss — the legendary explorer believed to have written the Journey to the Dark Continent centuries ago — is implied to be alive. Lore suggests he may be the strongest Nen user in the world. Although not a traditional villain, his unknown intentions and the threat of the Dark Continent place him at the top of the potential threat list.
Final Thoughts
Hunter x Hunter is unique because its antagonists aren’t just power-houses — they are complex personalities who challenge the story’s themes. Whether it’s Hisoka’s obsession, Pitou’s loyalty, or Meruem’s evolution, these villains stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the Phantom Troupe in terms of impact and raw power.