Orihime Inoue
Grimmjow enters the story early in the Arrancar Arc, the third Espada shown but the first to be introduced as such. He and his "fracciónes" impulsively attack Ichigo Kurosaki's hometown after learning of Ichigo's power, but are defeated by the Soul Reapers stationed there, with only Grimmjow returning alive after an aborted battle with Ichigo. He is demoted and maimed for this insolence and failure, but is later healed by Orihime Inoue, and regains his rank immediately by murdering his replacement, Luppi Antenor. After his initial battle with Ichigo, the pair form a competitive rivalry as their drive each other to grow stronger until Grimmjow is decisively defeated by Ichigo in Hueco Mundo. Grimmjow survives this defeat and then Quincy invasion of Hueco Mundo, becoming a reluctant ally of the protagonists so he can settle things with Ichigo once Yhwach is dealt with. While Ichigo, Chad and Orihime move on, Grimmjow helps Urahara in taking out the Schutzstaffel Askin Nakk Le Vaar by ripping out his heart. They are subsequently trapped in the dying Quincey's "Gift Ball Deluxe" ability before being saved by Neliel.