Warning: This article contains significant spoilers from the epilogue of My Hero Academia.
Essential Highlights
- Deku relinquished the power of One For All and transitioned into a teaching role at UA.
- Bakugo and fellow students contributed to the funding of a new Hero suit for Deku.
- The upgraded armor positions Deku among the top five strongest Heroes.
In This Article
Deku’s Return to Heroism
The recent release of My Hero Academia volume includes a thrilling 38-page epilogue that picks up from chapter 430. This epilogue reignites the intrigue regarding Deku’s future as a hero following the substantial transformation he underwent. Initially grappling with the responsibilities of his One For All power under All Might’s mentorship, Deku has consistently dreamt of becoming a true hero. Throughout his journey, he has confronted numerous formidable villains, with a defining clash against All For One occurring during the Final War.
Despite his aspirations to save Shigaraki, Deku ultimately defeated All For One but at the cost of losing One For All, returning to his quirkless nature. This pivotal moment sparked a mixed reaction among the fandom, leading him to pursue a new path as a teacher at UA after an 8-year time skip.
The epilogue revealed Deku’s role as an educator, highlighting how his relationships have evolved as a result of prioritizing his teaching responsibilities. While his former friends have taken on the mantle of Pro Heroes and become busier with their duties, Deku finds fulfillment in nurturing the next generation of heroes. This renewed purpose culminated in a heartwarming moment when All Might gifted him a new Hero armor, primarily funded by Bakugo, enabling him to rejoin hero efforts alongside his peers.
Showcasing Pro Hero Deku’s Abilities
Deku Joins the Fight in MHA 431
In chapter 431, the epilogue brings Deku back into action as he dons his new armor during a celebratory event for Shoto, who recently ascended to the number two position in the Hero Rankings. Fans were delighted to see familiar faces from UA’s class 1A discussing their journeys and accomplishments while reflecting on how their lives have transformed since graduation.
Amidst these interactions, a sudden carjacking interrupts the festivities, prompting all 21 heroes, including Deku in his advanced armor, to leap into action. Although the ensuing battle may not have been depicted in high detail, Deku’s capabilities and reliability were evident as he keeps pace with other top-tier heroes such as Bakugo and Todoroki. Enhanced by years of technological advancements, Deku’s armor is notably superior to All Might’s, making him an integral player in the current hero landscape.
Assessing Deku’s Strength
Deku’s Position Among Top Heroes
While the specifics of Deku’s strength remain somewhat ambiguous due to his role as a part-time hero, it is clear that he possesses the abilities to align with some of the most formidable heroes. Notably, the armor he wears shows exceptional potential, likely drawing from the various abilities he once harnessed through One For All. Over time, this armor has adapted through usage, bolstering its efficiency and ensuring that Deku is well-prepared to face top-tier villains.
It’s essential to recognize that while Deku might not currently hold the title of the strongest character in My Hero Academia, he certainly ranks within the top five heroes. Given the competitive nature of the hero rankings, with Mirio Togata as the Number One Hero, followed closely by Shoto and Bakugo, Deku’s versatility and tactical knowledge make him an indispensable asset to the hero community. Should his One For All powers be fully replicated or evolved, he may very well climb higher in the rankings than many anticipate.
As My Hero Academia continues to captivate audiences, Volume 42 is now available in Japan, with the English edition set to release in 2025.
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