There have been countless Chainsaw Man theories which speculate that Pochita's true identity is him being the Birth Devil. These speculations have been backed by points that veer the fandom in that direction, such as his ability to erase Devils through consumption (i.e., reverse birt), his design (the umbilical cord-like flesh scarf) and more.
However, another theory has surfaced and seems to claim that these speculations might only be half-right. In essence, it says that Pochita himself is not likely the Birth Devil but rather has ties to it, which supports his Devil-erasing ability and elaborates on his design and nature. Here's a closer look.
Disclaimer: This article is speculative in nature.
Chainsaw Man: Theories labelling Pochita as the Birth Devil might only be half-true
The theory begins by affirming that Pochita and the Birth Devil have ties. But it proves the Birth Devil theories as only half-true with what it says further. For starters, Birth has been universal concept, so this Devil had likely existed since the beginning of time. But chainsaws first came to exist in the late 18th century and interestingly, they were made for easing cases of C-Section.
As such, Pochita or Chainsaw Man is tied to the Birth Devil for this reason and could likely be the offspring of the Birth Devil. Next, Pochita's true form features him with an umbilical cord-like flesh scarf wrapped around his neck. Considering creator Tatsuki Fujimoto's way of hinting at things, there is definitely a reason for it and this theory links with the concept of birth.
Further, Pochita's ability to erase Devils could stem from him consuming the Birth Devil and gaining this power. Essentially, Devil Erasure means wiping out that Devil's concept, i.e., something akin reverse birthing. Lastly, the theory speculates the reason for this being a cycle of creation and destruction - Yoru sacrificing her children (Tank Devil and Gun Devil) to get stronger and Pochita consuming Birth Devil for power.
Pochita is Pochita
This theory, no doubts, does away with the other speculations surrounding Pochita's true identity. They label Pochita himself as the Birth Devil and back this with evidence from his Devil Erasure, character design, origin of chainsaws and his base nature of wanting to be loved like a child. Further, this claim is backed by Pochita's request to Denji for Nayuta - give her a family.
But as mentioned, the theory explained above proves only half of these claims to be true. If Pochita truly is the Birth Devil, why does he appear as Chainsaw Man and not something else? Moreover, tied to the Birth Devil or not, Pochita retained his identity and acts on his own whims and fancies, uninhibited anything internal or a buried presence.
Lastly, Pochita has been shown to be a gentle creature from the very onset, at least from whatever has been revealed. In dog form, he was no threat to anyone and stayed by Denji, wishing to be a part of the boy's dreams. Again, he rampaged in the manga's recent chapters due to the assualt launched on him, thereby backing his distinct nature as Chainsaw Man and not anyone else.
Final Thoughts
Theories regarding Pochita's true identity and even origins definitely make for some intriguing reads. Given the facts stated in the Birth Devil theories and this recent one, there are certain similarities which parallel the two but then again, oppose them as well.
As many theories that might be formulated, the ultimate decision is up to Fujimoto himself. It is without a doubt that Pochita's design and nature are definitely in relation something greater about his identity. Hopefully this incident involving the Aging Devil might reveal more on Pochita and who is really is.
Related links:
- Chainsaw Man: What's behind the door in Denji's dream, explained
- Chainsaw Man's world may need to die before Denji saves it
- 10 anime characters like Denji from Chainsaw Man