Friendly Rivalry

Not all rivalries are bitter. Some are competitive, with both parties being driven by a healthy desire to one-up each other and, regardless of the outcome, they'll continue to push themselves in anticipation of their next eventual showdown. As such, they develop a mutual respect for each other's talents, even in defeat. If taken to extremes, their rivalry can border on exclusivity. It's a staple of Fighting Games and martial arts media, usually involving the protagonist. Their rival can be anyone from the deuteragonist, or their Best Friend, or even a former enemy. Woe be to any enemy who stands against either of them, because then the unfortunate adversary will have both friends to deal with and much ass will be kicked that day. Other rivalries may revolve around sports, performance arts, business, or... anything, really. Some can even be portrayed comically, with both parties competing over something mundane, or pointless. Compare and often overlaps with Worthy Opponent, Spirited Competitor, and Mirror Character. Related to The Only One Allowed to Defeat You. Contrasts with The Rival and Arch-Enemy, who serve more as foils and are usually more antagonistic. Can overlap with Vitriolic Best Buds if there is some teasing involved in the rivalry, or Bully Turned Buddy, if one of the rivals was an outright bully before turning friendlier. See also Opponent Instruction.