Horikoshi may have intended to keep Deku Quirkless at the end of My Hero Academia all along

Modified Jun 22, 2024 22:00 GMT

My Hero Academia: Izuku might have to stay quirkless for the plot (Image via Bones) — My Hero Academia: Izuku might have to stay Quirkless for the plot (Image via Bones)

My Hero Academia ended its final arc and has now entered its epilogue, but a huge part of the fanbase is still wondering whether Deku will remain Quirkless or not. The recent loss of his One for All Quirk ties back to the series' core message that anyone, even without powers, can become a hero.

However, with the story still unfolding, there's speculation that Deku might regain his Quirk, potentially altering the narrative. Fans are eagerly anticipating the release of chapter 426 on June 30, 2024, for more answers.

Disclaimer- This article contains huge spoilers for the My Hero Academia series.

My Hero Academia: Deku might have to stay Quirkless for the plot

Izuku and all of the previous One For All holders as shown in the anime (Image via Bones)

The entire story of My Hero Academia has been emphasizing the message that even people without Quirks can become heroes. This theme was driven home when Izuku Midoriya, the protagonist, completely lost his One for All Quirk.

While this decision disappointed many fans, a substantial part of the fanbase believes that Deku being Quirkless ties back to the core message of the story, which was underscored by All Might's initial message to Deku — even someone without a Quirk can become a hero.

MHA had two rough drafts before its current version. The first was a one-shot called My Hero, featuring an older man named Jack Midoriya, a support equipment salesman with no powers. The second draft featured Mikumo Akatani, a Quirkless teenager in a super-powered world, who used makeshift tools and luck to overcome obstacles. Both versions featured powerless protagonists who carved their own paths.

Izuku as shown in the anime (Image via Bones)

Regarding Izuku Midoriya's current incarnation, one of the most notable aspects is his consistent struggle. Whether it's his relationships or the powers he inherited, Deku rarely catches a break. He’s perpetually attacked by villains or dealing with unexpected developments with his Quirk.

The essential message conveyed through Deku and his previous incarnations is that he is meant to struggle. His purpose is to show that people can suffer, struggle, and still move forward, no matter how uncool or “unsightly” it may seem. Along the way, he inspires others to help and follow him.

This theme was hammered home in the chapter Izuku Midoriya: Rising, emphasizing that it’s not about having powers but having the heart to do what’s right. The conclusion of My Hero Academia confirms that Deku becomes the top hero in the future, as the entire story is about him recounting his journey.

Thus, it is highly likely that Deku will continue to gain fame and respect as a hero, even after losing his Quirk. This outcome aligns perfectly with the overarching message of the series.

Young All Might as shown in the anime (Image via Bones)

Given this context, it is crucial for Horikoshi to keep Deku Quirkless and not revert this significant plot point. Restoring his Quirk would undermine the powerful message that anyone, regardless of their abilities, can become a hero. The story began with Deku’s Quirklessness, and its conclusion should reinforce that initial premise.

By remaining Quirkless, Deku embodies the series' core theme — heroism isn't about superpowers, but about courage, determination, and the will to protect others. This resolution ensures the narrative remains true to its foundational message, delivering a satisfying and meaningful conclusion to Deku’s journey.

Final thoughts

The epilogue of the My Hero Academia manga is still ongoing, and it's possible that Deku could somehow regain his Quirk, changing the narrative entirely. Fans eagerly await the developments that may alter the story's conclusion. Chapter 426 of the manga is scheduled for release on June 30, 2024. This release will undoubtedly shed more light on Deku's ultimate fate.