11th Division Captain
Born: November 19 (Area 80 North)
Height: 202 cm
Weight: 108 kg
Hates: Natto
Hobbies: Fighting strong opponents
Theme Song: "Superpredators" by Massive Attack
Note: The only Captain who didn't take the exam to become a Shinigami.
Zaraki's surname originates from the district he once lived in, Zaraki, which is district #80 of the North Alley of Rukongai. District #80 is the worst, most lawless region of Rukongai, filled with thieves and murderers, while area #1 is the most orderly and law-abiding. While living in District #80, Kenpachi had no name. During this time, he became skilled in swordsmanship and killed many enemies.
During his travels outside of District #80, he found a small girl whom he named Yachiru, in memory of the only person he ever admired, after she showed no fear of his sword. Yachiru came from area #79, Kusajishi, where her parents were murdered. These two events occurred quite close together. On that day, he also took on the name Kenpachi, a title given to the strongest swordsman, the one who has killed the most. The two developed a father-daughter-like relationship.
At some point before becoming a Captain, he fought and defeated Ikkaku Madarame. Because of this, Ikkaku pledged to serve under Kenpachi from then on, although he didn't get the chance to do so until he joined the 11th Division. However, Ikkaku would still eagerly fight Kenpachi to the death if given the opportunity.
After some time, Kenpachi made his way to Seireitei. He defeated and killed the previous Captain of the 11th Division (whose identity remains unknown) and thus gained his position in the Gotei 13. In the anime, his assumption of the Captain's seat caused Maki Ichinose to leave Soul Society. According to the anime, it also convinced Ikkaku and Yumichika to join the Shinigami.
