Abarai Renji can be considered one of the (many) deuteragonists of Bleach, having played a crucial role in all the major arcs of the story. His powers are initially depicted as unformed, but after his stint in the Royal Realm, he returns to Soul Society far stronger than most experienced captains, even though he never chooses to become one for some reason.

RELATED: Bleach: 10 Things Anime-Only Fans Don't Know About Shunsui Kyoraku

There was no doubt that Renji and Rukia were going to end up together, because, well, it had been practically written in stone by the mangaka. On the other hand, does she really match his personality so perfectly? Wouldn't there be other characters in the narrative who are more likely to be romantically compatible with him?

10 Nanao Could Show A Gentler Side To Renji

Nanao Zanpakuto Bleach

Nanao doesn't tolerate insubordination or tomfoolery, as seen by the way she physically teaches Captain Shunsui a lesson whenever he steps out of line.

Regardless, she's a gentle and sweet person underneath that gruff exterior, so as long as Renji can see her for who she really is (and not as the strictest Vice-Captain in the Gotei 13), they are liable to get along swimmingly. Besides, he doesn't really act too irresponsibly anyway, so that's less stress for Nanao.

9 Byakuya Is Part Of The Same Squad

byakuya kuchiki in bleach

Sure, Renji and Byakuya have a strong mentor-mentee relationship, and such a thing should theoretically not be tampered with by mixing in romance, but why on earth not?

They clearly care about each other, even if one cares a little bit more, and they are sure to get along well. At his current stage, Renji is more than mature for his captain. More importantly, being part of the same squad means less running around for date night, doesn't it?

8 Matsumoto Is The Perfect Balance Of Goofy & Serious

rangiku matsumoto staring in bleach

Matsumoto and Renji share a fairly cordial friendship, but it's one that can effortlessly tip over into something a lot more serious. Her love for Gin might take some time to fade (at least to the point at which she would allow others into her heart), but Renji honestly is the first man she should be looking at.

RELATED: Bleach: 10 Abilities You Didn’t Know Yhwach Had

The best thing about this pairing is that both of them are equally goofy when things aren't threatening, but can instantly take on a serious demeanor when the situation calls for it.

7 Kukaku Would Be A Loyal Partner

Kukaku Shiba grinning in Bleach.

 

Kukaku might be moody and give in to bursts of random fury and violence, but her companionship with Yoruichi and with her cousin, Ichigo, proves that she is one of the most loyal characters in the story.

In any case, Renji is pretty much used to receiving brickbats from Byakuya and Rukia all the time, so a few extra reprimands aren't going to make much of a dent in his enthusiasm. Also, this way he would actually be related to Ichigo, not that that should have anything to do with his decision.

6 Orihime Would Be Attracted To The Qualities Renji Shares With Ichigo

orihime inoue

Ichigo and Orihime make an excellent combination, but would Renji have been a better option? Perhaps, if one considers the fact that he is as devoted and perseverant as his orange-haired buddy, a feature that she obviously likes.

Maybe not so much the part where Renji would run headlong into danger without so much as a precaution, but again, she's handled Ichigo's nonsense for a long time. Though it wouldn't be fair to expect such emotional labor from her, it seems that Orihime would offer it willingly, regardless.

5 Ichigo Shares A Lot Of Overlapping Similarities

Renji Ibarra (Left) and Ichigo Kurosaki (Right), two rival Soul Reapers, training during in Bleach's Soul Society

Speaking of Ichigo, it's evident that he and Renji are extremely close to each other, given that they visit each other after starting their respective families. Seeing these two together, though?

RELATED: Bleach: 10 Things About The Vice-Captains That Make No Sense

They have been coupled in innumerable ships for the past (yes, even romantic ones), showing that fans enjoy the idea of Ichigo and Renji in a relationship. The only issue is that they are a bit too similar, which could cause friction if not handled properly.

4 Isane Is Reckless Like Renji

isane kotetsu bleach

Isane Kotetsu, the current Captain of Squad 4, has a slight tendency towards recklessness, a personality aspect exhibited by Renji. This is why they would make an amazing match, because what other way is better to realize the importance of safety measures than watching a loved one take unnecessary risks?

Isane is a whopping 6'2'' tall, which she despises because she had never wanted to grow beyond 5'7". However, since Renji is also the same height, she might feel more comfortable with him.

3 Nel's Quiet Nature Would Balance Out Renji's Outgoing Nature

Nelliel making a threatening expression in Bleach.

To be clear, the Nel in question is the adult version, and not the baby. She is quiet and shy, but far from timid, as shown by the way she coldly treats Nnoitra like the wild animal that he is, despite him having the wiles to take her down.

Someone like her would be suited to an outrageously outgoing man like Renji, if only to show him that power scaling is not what commands respect. Interestingly, a Hollow and Shingami in a relationship could theoretically cause some unforeseen outcomes.

2 Ikkaku Could Bond With Renji Through Their Humor

ikkaku madarame

Abarai Renji and Ikkaku Madarame are two peas in a pod, but this could actually work in their favor. They are each as likely to break into battle as the other person (which is basically at the drop of a hat), and couples that fight together win a lot more often.

RELATED: Bleach: Every Filler Arc In The Anime (In Chronological Order)

As long as Renji doesn't poke fun at his woeful lack of hair, and pretends that Ikkaku merely has a "shaved" scalp, there are very few drawbacks to this pair. A crucial thing that bonds them together is their sense of honor, which is often misplaced, but still present.

1 Soifon Can Put Renji In His Place & Open Up To Him

soi fon bleach

Soifon hardly seems the kind of person to be interested in (or have the time for) a romantic association with anyone, but if she does, Renji is a sensible option. Her belief in herself is unparalleled, not to mention her capacity for discipline towards her lower officers whenever required.

If anyone, it would be Soifon who can knock Renji down a few pegs when his ego gets too swollen, and he would likewise show her that opening oneself up to emotions is a strength, not a weakness.

NEXT: Bleach: 10 Things Anime-Only Fans Don't Know About Ryujin Jakka