Nike is transforming an anime legend into a real-world collectible with the Air Max 95 QS YGO, a sneaker inspired by the pair worn by Joey Wheeler in the original Yu-Gi-Oh! series. More than 25 years after the anime first gained global recognition, the collaboration marks the first time this fictional silhouette has been produced for fans and collectors alike.
The project began with a direct nod to the original series and its underdog hero. Joey Wheeler’s dueling skills may have been unpredictable, but his sneakers were unforgettable. By partnering with KONAMI, Nike aimed to bring that moment of anime history into the hands of both sneaker enthusiasts and trading card fans.
The “Joey” colorway arrives in layered shades of blue that match the tones seen in the anime. Its paneling, lace loops, and scratch-mark detailing pay tribute to the original design depicted on screen, while a concealed forefoot Air unit reflects the sneaker’s animated interpretation. The outsole carries a Yu-Gi-Oh! logo, the heel features card-inspired graphics, and the sock liner showcases Joey alongside his Red-Eyes Black Dragon. A Japan-exclusive “Jonouchi” edition offers a grayscale variation that references the manga origins of the series.
At Nike, we believe the future of sport is creative and unlimited in possibility, and we know that athletes draw inspiration from extraordinary sources in the video games they play and the anime they watch. – Dave Vericker, Sr. Director, NBHD/Energy Merchandising
Nike has also included an unprecedented addition for collectors: official, playable Nike x Yu-Gi-Oh! Trading Card Game cards packaged with each pair. This marks the first time KONAMI has co-created TCG cards with a brand.
The launch extends to apparel designed to echo the anime’s competitive energy. A Nike Destroyer jacket reinterprets the Domino High School varsity style as a dueling team uniform, complete with heavyweight wool, leather sleeves, quilted satin lining, and co-branded chenille patches. Complementary T-shirts carry heavyweight cotton, relaxed fits, and graphics that include Joey’s Red-Eyes Black Dragon on the back.
Nike’s campaign brings the anime connection into sharper focus by featuring the original English and Japanese voice actors from the series. This multi-layered approach positions the Air Max 95 QS YGO as both a wearable sneaker and a collectible artifact from one of anime’s most recognizable franchises.
The passion, care and attention to detail Nike brought to this Yu-Gi-Oh! collaboration has been extraordinary. Their unique vision of Yu-Gi-Oh! characters and fans as athletes – combined with Nike’s iconic marketing, footwear and apparel design – will redefine how our audience connects with their favorites characters, especially Joey Wheeler. – Jennifer Coleman, VP, Licensing & Marketing, Konami Cross Media NY, Inc.
The “Joey” colorway and its apparel collection will launch globally on September 12 through SNKRS and select Nike retailers. On the same date, the “Jonouchi” colorway and matching apparel will release exclusively in Japan, offering fans two distinct ways to own a piece of Yu-Gi-Oh! history.
