McDonald's Japan Teams Up with "Rokudenashi Blues"! Gordon Maeda Stars as Taizon Maeda in Fiery New Ad!

McDonald's Japan isn't just about those beloved Happy Meals! They're constantly dropping quirky, creative ads online, often featuring celebs or voice actors in some truly bizarre spots that always grab social media's attention.

Now, they're at it again with a fresh new commercial! Actor Gordon Maeda is starring as Taizon Maeda, the protagonist from the classic manga "Rokudenashi Blues," in a brand-new TV spot titled "Spicy Chicken Nuggets with Black Pepper & Garlic: Things You'll Regret Not Doing Now." This marks the first-ever collaboration between the two!

Written by Masanori Morita, the Japanese manga "Rokudenashi Blues" (ろくでなしBLUES) kicked off its serialization in "Weekly Shonen Jump" in 1988. It follows delinquent Taizon Maeda as he joins a boxing club, leading to epic school battles. Its realistic character designs and heart-pumping action made it a massive hit, spawning 42 tankobon volumes, video games, and even a live-action drama.

This crossover ad is all about hyping up the limited-time "Spicy Chicken Nuggets with Black Pepper & Garlic," available at Japanese McDonald's locations starting January 14th, along with two brand-new dipping sauces: the "Addictive Garlic Delicious Sauce" and "Sour Cream Tartar Sauce."

In the commercial, actor Gordon Maeda transforms into "Maeda Taizon" in the style of the manga's protagonist, "Taizon Maeda," chowing down on nuggets with his crew. His iconic line, "This is how you eat nuggets!" is super memorable and sure to bring a smile to fans of the series.

What's more, original author Masanori Morita has created a special new illustration, also revealed today! It features Taizon Maeda, looking incredibly cool and powerful, holding the "Spicy Chicken Nuggets with Black Pepper & Garlic."

▼ McDonald's x "Rokudenashi Blues" Commercial

Seriously, 2026 has just begun, and McDonald's Japan is already dropping fresh collabs and hilarious ads left and right to grab everyone's attention. Their marketing team clearly knows what's up!