"Hunter X Hunter" fans experienced a roller coaster ride of emotions the past several months when the acclaimed Japanese manga returned after a long absence and then went into another break due to creator Yoshihiro Togashi's health problems. No intended date of return has been announced yet, but rumor has it that it may be back by early 2017.

According to speculations, Togashi has apparently been given a deadline of February 2017 in order to get back to work. It can be recalled that Togashi went on a break due to his back issues — something that has apparently kept him from doing his job consistently. But if rumors are to be believed, fans should have a new chapter in their hands in the new year.

However, there is also some talk of Togashi possibly getting replaced by none other that Sui Ishida. Fans know Ishida to be the creator of "Tokyo Ghoul," another popular Japanese manga series. Togashi himself has spoken quite highly of Ishida, so it wouldn't come as a surprise if the latter continued the former's work. But it remains to be seen if this will be probable since Ishida is also busy with "Tokyo Ghoul."

Apart from Ishida, another reasonable option is to replace Togashi with Naoko Takeuchi. For those who are unaware, Takeuchi is Togashi's wife and also happens to be the creator of "Sailor Moon." Considering Takeuchi's skills as a manga artist and her access to pick Togashi's brains, she may be the best alternative right now.

Shueisha, the publisher of "Hunter X Hunter," is reportedly pushing for the manga to continue. This is because the series has a large fan following in North America and the publisher does not want to lose their interest. After all, establishing a fan base in North America is no easy feat.

Right now, nothing has been officially confirmed, so it is advised that readers take this news with a grain of salt.