13 Jujutsu Kaisen moments when Gege Akutami did the opposite of what fans expected

Fans have gotten used to Jujutsu Kaisen moments when Gege Akutami did the opposite of what fans expected, showcasing the series' penchant for unpredictable twists and deep character developments. Jujutsu Kaisen moments like the sheer sealing of Satoru Gojo, the series’ all-powered character, and the changes of heart of such characters as Maki Zenin and the many casualties that define what it means to be in a shonen all point to Akutami’s consistent flips of the bird.

It explains that Jujutsu Kaisen moments include twists – be it betrayals, multi-faceted ethical quandaries, or characters’ secrets, and enriches the show with depth and topicality. These Jujutsu Kaisen moments not only subvert audience expectations but force the narrative into more sinister and thought-provoking realms while enthralling fans.

Disclaimer: This article reflects the writer's opinion and contains spoilers from the manga.

Gojo's Sealing, Nanami’s Death, and others are among Jujutsu Kaisen moments when Gege Akutami did the opposite of what fans expected

1) Gojo's Sealing

Among Jujutsu Kaisen moments, a shocking twist occurs when Satoru Gojo, the seemingly invincible sorcerer, is sealed away during the Shibuya Incident arc. Fans, who viewed Gojo as an untouchable powerhouse, were stunned as Gege Akutami had him trapped in the Prison Realm by Kenjaku and Pseudo-Geto. This unexpected move removed the series' strongest character, dramatically raising the stakes and forcing other characters to step up.

The sealing of Gojo highlighted the cunning of the antagonists and set the stage for intense character development and power struggles within the series, significantly impacting the narrative's direction.

2) Mahito’s end

Mahito’s death was one of those moments when Gege Akutami succeeded in subverting the readers’ expectations. This cursed spirit served as one of the main villains with a focus on destruction and sadism. Many viewers expected a powerful battle in which Mahito would be defeated by the force of arms or wits.

However, Akutami chose a more psychological and figurative method of portraying this aspect. As fans anticipated Mahito would be killed by Sukuna after the powerful packed fight they had, but instead, he was absorbed by Pseudo-Geto which was later revealed to be his plan from the very start.

3) Choso's ties with Yuji

Among the other Jujutsu Kaisen moments, Choso’s shift in allegiance was a plot twist that caught many fans off guard. Initially introduced as an antagonist aligned with the curses, Choso’s perspective changes dramatically after learning about his supposed familial connection to Yuji Itadori. This revelation and the subsequent internal conflict led Choso to switch sides, aiding Yuji and his friends.

Gege Akutami used this twist to explore themes of family, loyalty, and the complexities of human (and non-human) relationships. Choso’s change of heart added depth to his character and highlighted the unpredictable nature of alliances within the series, keeping fans on their toes about who they can trust.

4) Maki's fight against Naoya Zenin

Naoya kicks Maki through a wall.(image via Shueisha)

In the brief yet intense confrontation between Maki and Naoya Zenin, Maki defied expectations with her resilience and strategic acumen. Despite Naoya's rapid-fire attacks enabled by Projection Sorcery, Maki not only endured but also countered it effectively. Utilizing her enhanced physical capabilities following Mai's sacrifice, she managed to turn the tide against Naoya swiftly.

Her ability to decipher and adapt to Naoya's movements, despite the brevity of their clash, surprised both Naoya and the spectators. Maki's determination and skill were on full display, demonstrating her growth as a formidable combatant in a battle that, though short-lived, left a lasting impression among other Jujutsu Kaisen moments.

5) Satoru Gojo's death

Fans of Jujutsu Kaisen were stunned by the unexpected death of Satoru Gojo in Chapter 236. Throughout the series, Gojo's prowess and invincibility are emphasized, leading viewers to believe in his inevitable victory over Sukuna. However, Sukuna's use of the Mahoraga technique abruptly shifted the tide, leading to Gojo's surprising defeat.

Gege Akutami's narrative twist was masterfully executed, defying typical manga conventions where characters of Gojo's caliber rarely face such sudden demise. This unforeseen turn showcased the depth of Jujutsu Kaisen's storytelling, leaving fans in shock and highlighting the unpredictability that defines the series' narrative style.

6) Nanami’s death

Nanami Kento’s death shocked everyone as this was one of the most painful events in the show. Nanami was among the characters that many fans got to like for his pragmatist personality, along with a strong adherence to his sense of duty. As such, many expected him to remain an influential figure in supporting Yuji Itadori.

Among other Jujutsu Kaisen moments, in this incident, particularly, Gege Akutami decided to go for it which made Nanami die during the Shibuya Incident arc. It was shocking to fans because of how brutal it was. Even more heartbreaking because it deprived Yuji of another strong figure in his life. However, the death of Nanami made it worthwhile to show how severe and risky the life of sorcerers is, as well as their wars.

7) Yuta Okkotsu’s return

Yuta Okkotsu’s comeback was a significant event that fans were waiting for, but Gege Akutami did it in an interesting way that completely cuckolded the readers’ expectations. It wasn’t long before fans started to ponder over his re-entry and the manner it would take. Instead of a direct return as a mighty companion, Yuta came back wrapped in quite particular circumstances where he mentions the execution of Yuji Itadori leaving the fans in an unexpected cliffhanger

This introduced a twist and created suspense among the audiences, especially about Yuta’s motive and the new role he played in the conflicts going on in the series among other Jujutsu Kaisen moments. With regards to Akutami’s management of Yuta’s return, not only did it have a superb character returned to the mix, but it also enhanced and complicated the plot.

8) Megumi’s struggle

Many fans expected Megumi to resist Sukuna. However, instead, fans witnessed how Sukuna's control over his body and the cruel murder of his sister, Tsumiki, using Megumi's own hands, shattered his mental state.

Fans had hoped that with Yuji's help, Megumi would be successful in resisting Sukuna. But all of Yuji's efforts seemed to have gone to waste as Megumi didn't want to be saved which was evident when he said "That's enough" when Yuji tried to reach out to Megumi

Despite overwhelming losses, Yuji Itadori still believes he can save Megumi by restoring his will to live, leveraging their strong friendship and the rare opportunity presented by Sukuna's weakened condition. Sukuna’s interest in Megumi adds another layer of psychological complexity, as the cursed king sees potential in him that even Megumi is unaware of.

9) Mai Zenin’s sacrifice

Mai Zenin’s Sacrifice (Image via Shueisha)

Mai Zenin’s sacrifice was a moment that not only surprised fans but also deeply impacted the narrative. As Maki’s twin sister, Mai had always lived in her sibling’s shadow, struggling with feelings of inadequacy and resentment. Fans expected Mai’s character arc to involve her finding her own strength and purpose.

Among other Jujutsu Kaisen moments, this incident, particularly, Gege Akutami took a more tragic route, having Mai sacrifice herself to give Maki the power needed to overcome the Zenin clan’s oppressive rule. This act of selflessness and the bond between the sisters added emotional depth to the story and underscored the brutal nature of the jujutsu world, where even moments of empowerment come at great personal cost.

10) Maki Zenin’s transformation

Maki Zenin’s Transformation (Image via Shueisha)

Maki Zenin's transformation in Jujutsu Kaisen was a shocking twist, opposite to what fans expected. After surviving severe injuries from Jogo's attack, Maki returns to the Zenin clan to retrieve Cursed Tools. Her father, Ogi Zenin, attempts to kill her and her sister, Mai.

In a desperate act, Mai sacrifices herself to give Maki a powerful weapon and removes all Cursed Energy from her, granting Maki immense physical strength. This unexpected change turns Maki into a formidable force, leading her to avenge Mai's death by annihilating the entire Zenin clan, a move that stunned fans and reshaped her character.

11) Junpei Yoshino’s death

Junpei Yoshino in his transfigured state (Image via Mappa)

Among other Jujutsu Kaisen moments, this incident, particularly, Junpei Yoshino’s death was a moment that starkly contrasted with typical shonen tropes. Introduced as a character with a tragic backstory and the potential for redemption through friendship with Yuji Itadori, fans expected Junpei to eventually join the protagonist’s side and find a new path.

Instead, Gege Akutami delivered a gut-wrenching twist by having Junpei manipulated and brutally killed by Mahito. This unexpected and tragic end served as a harsh reminder of the series’ darker themes and the cruel reality of the jujutsu world through these Jujutusu Kaisen moments. Junpei’s death profoundly impacted Yuji, intensifying his resolve and adding emotional weight to his journey.

12) Rika's death

Riko Anamaki in the Star Plasma Vessel (Image via Mappa)

The Gojo's Past Arc significantly impacts the events of Jujutsu Kaisen, despite occurring 12 years before the main story. This flashback centers on Riko Amanai, the Star Plasma Vessel whom Satoru Gojo and Suguru Geto must escort to Tengen. Riko eventually decides she prefers spending time with her friends rather than losing herself entirely.

However, just as she reaches her destination and reveals her true feelings, Toji Fushiguro shockingly kills her, bypassing the defenses due to his lack of cursed energy. Her death profoundly alters the series, radicalizing Suguru Geto and paving the way for figures like Ryomen Sukuna and Kenjaku to return. Even Gojo is deeply affected by her loss.

13) Aoi Todo’s reappearance

Aoi Todo with his Boggie Woggie technique (image via Shueisha)

Aoi Todo’s reappearance in Jujutsu Kaisen chapter 259 was thrilling and was one of the unexpected Jujutsu Kaisen moments for fans. After being absent from the series due to severe injuries sustained during the Shibuya Incident, Todo makes a dramatic return during the final battle against Sukuna. Todo was last seen fighting Mahito, where he lost one of his hands and believed his Boogie Woogie technique to be unusable.

In his comeback, Todo saves sorcerers from Sukuna’s Divine Flames by moving them out of danger, reigniting hope among the fighters. This reappearance, completely unforeseen by fans, showcases his resilience. Todo's return, which no one anticipated at this crucial juncture, promises an exciting team battle, emphasizing his enduring importance and strength in the series.

To conclude

Gege Akutami’s plot telling is quite creative and unconventional as the show often delivers the most unexpected twists. Akutami steadily develops the characters’ emotional development and noteworthy losses, and the use of additional circles and a superb framework adds to the overall complexity of the story via these Jujutsu Kaisen moments.

It is therefore the shock of these Jujutsu Kaisen moments that simultaneously undercuts the familiar genres and connects with the audience that makes the series appealing. Thus, wearing expectations of further evolution through these Jujutsu Kaisen moments proves to be a work that reveals the greatness of Akutami’s imagination and his desire to create an epic, engaging, and relevant story in the contemporary world.