My Hero Academia has solidified its status as one of the most beloved anime series, culminating in an impactful conclusion where nearly every character received the closure they had long deserved. The protagonist, Izuku Midoriya, has undergone a remarkable evolution, gradually mastering the formidable One for All Quirk, allowing him to wield its power effectively in intense battles.
As Midoriya’s abilities have grown, he has consistently faced fierce opponents, often employing his overwhelming strength to secure vital victories. Many of the series’ most notable confrontations showcase his determination to protect those he cares about, putting everything on the line during each encounter.
8 VS Class 1-A
An Exhausted Deku Admits Defeat and Returns to U.A.
- Arc: Dark Hero arc
- Winner: Class 1-A
Following the events of the Paranormal Liberation War, Midoriya struggles under the immense pressure of being the world’s savior, neglecting the support of his friends. This leads to a pivotal moment where his classmates intervene, compelling him to return to U.A. to recuperate before he risks complete burnout.
Despite Midoriya’s weary state, Bakugo’s heartfelt apology underscores the importance of camaraderie and reveals that Midoriya’s choice to isolate himself was misguided. After accepting his friends’ concerns, he takes the necessary time to recharge, preparing him for the ultimate confrontations ahead.
7 VS Kaina Tsutsumi (Lady Nagant)
A Show of Growth: Midoriya Unleashes New Powers
- Arc: Dark Hero arc
- Winner: Izuku Midoriya
Even in a state of fatigue after battling several villains, Midoriya remains vigilant enough to confront Lady Nagant, thwarting her destructive intentions. Utilizing his newly harnessed Fa Jin, he boosts his speed to evade her deadly bullets efficiently.
Moreover, Midoriya’s empathy shines through as he attempts to reach Lady Nagant, leading to a pivotal moment where she is forced to recognize the light amid darkness. Though her Quirk, implanted by All For One, threatens her life, Midoriya saves her, eventually turning her into an ally during the climactic battles ahead.
6 VS Katsuki Bakugo
A Fight to Resolve Differences and Explore Bakugo’s Character
- Arc: Provisional Hero License Exam arc
- Winner: Katsuki Bakugo
For years, Bakugo bullied Midoriya for his Quirkless status, but their dynamic shifted when Midoriya gained incredible powers. This led to a breaking point as Bakugo wrestled with guilt over All Might’s fate, feeling responsible for the loss of his mentor’s power.
This emotional clash resulted in a fierce battle where Bakugo emerged triumphant, but not without exposing his own insecurities. The encounter ultimately prompted a heartfelt exchange, enabling Midoriya to lift Bakugo’s burden and rekindle the latter’s focus on his heroic aspirations.
5 VS Goto Imasuji (Muscular)
An Intense Battle Highlighting Midoriya’s Heroic Resolve
- Arc: Forest Training Camp arc
- Winner: Izuku Midoriya
The rigorous training exercises in My Hero Academia often turn perilous, as demonstrated in the Forest Training Camp arc. Midoriya faces the menacing villain Muscular, who threatens the lives of innocent civilians.
In a desperate fight, Midoriya unleashes all of his power, ultimately delivering a decisive blow that halts Muscular’s rampage. This climactic showdown showcases not only his strength but also his unwavering dedication as a hero, reinforcing his character’s growth and resolve.
4 VS Kai Chisaki (Overhaul)
Eri’s Quirk Empowers Deku to Harness 100% of One For All
- Arc: Shie Hassaikai arc
- Winner: Izuku Midoriya
Overhaul stands as one of the most sinister antagonists in the series. His threats against Eri haunt both Midoriya and Mirio, becoming a driving force behind their resolve to stop him. The climax of the Shie Hassaikai arc reveals that Midoriya can harness the full extent of One For All, thanks to Eri’s Quirk, eliminating any repercussions to his body.
Exhibiting remarkable finesse, Midoriya unleashes a barrage of attacks, culminating in a sensational defeat of Overhaul, dismantling his villainous organization and rescuing Eri in the process.
3 VS Shoto Todoroki
An Epic Clash at the U.A. School Festival: Todoroki’s Acceptance of His Powers
- Arc: U.A. Sports Festival arc
- Winner: Shoto Todoroki
Initially perceived as a mere showcase, the U.A. Sports Festival delivers a riveting showdown between Midoriya and Todoroki. The latter struggles with his dual powers, intentionally restraining his fire ability, much to Midoriya’s discontent.
Motivated by the desire for Todoroki to embrace his full potential, Midoriya’s encouragement leads Todoroki to finally accept both sides of his heritage. The ensuing clash of elemental powers is so intense that intervention from their instructors becomes necessary, culminating in Midoriya’s defeat.
2 VS Tomura Shigaraki
A Decisive Battle in the Paranormal Liberation War: Midoriya Goes All Out
- Arc: Paranormal Liberation War arc
- Winner: None (interrupted by Gigantomachia)
The final confrontation in the Paranormal Liberation War arc showcases the terrifying growth of Shigaraki’s powers, as he manipulates his Decay Quirk with devastating effectiveness. Midoriya takes this opportunity to engage fiercely, trying to inflict maximum damage while safeguarding civilians.
During this intense moment, he discovers the Float ability, pushing himself to new heights. However, before he can secure a decisive victory, Gigantomachia interrupts the battle, exacerbating the chaos and tipping the scales in favor of the villains.
1 VS Tomura Shigaraki/All For One
The Fusion of Tomura and All For One: Midoriya’s Greatest Challenge
- Arc: Final War arc
- Winner: Izuku Midoriya
The Final War arc of My Hero Academia is an explosive culmination of the series’ ongoing conflicts, where heroes unite to thwart the nefarious ambitions of the Paranormal Liberation Front. The challenge escalates when All For One attempts to seize control of Shigaraki’s body, merging their powers into a formidable new entity.
In a desperate bid to save the world, Midoriya harnesses every resource available, utilizing his Blackchain and Gearshift abilities to manipulate the dynamics of the battle. An extraordinary alliance with Lady Nagant proves pivotal, giving him the edge he requires. Ultimately, Midoriya emerges victorious, affirming his growth and the strength of his convictions.
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