Volume 9 marks the rising threat of the Monster Association as organized villains begin to gather in the shadows. Garou continues his mission as the Hero Hunter, targeting powerful heroes and growing stronger with each battle. His determination and twisted ideology make him a complex and dangerous antagonist. Meanwhile, Saitama enters a martial arts tournament disguised under a fake name, searching for some excitement. The contrast between the underground monster threat and the tournament’s competitive atmosphere creates layered storytelling. Several new characters are introduced, expanding the world further. The action scenes become more intense and strategically complex. Murata’s artwork captures both martial arts precision and monstrous brutality. The volume balances humor with darker undertones as the stakes continue to rise. It sets the stage for a major confrontation between heroes and monsters.