Momoshiki may have already returned in Boruto without fans realizing

A recent theory by Reddit user @solo-123456 suggests that Momoshiki may have taken over Boruto’s body during the time skip, unbeknownst to fans. This adds a fascinating twist to the current storyline. With the possibility that Momoshiki has erased his memories to avoid conflict with the protagonist’s soul, he could be moving undetected within Konoha, subtly pursuing his own goals.

This intriguing idea suggests a hidden internal struggle and a shift in the protagonist’s character that fans might not yet recognize. By exploring themes of identity and control, this theory positions Momoshiki as a complex antagonist, potentially driven by new ambitions that could reshape both the protagonist's fate and the series' direction.

Momoshiki may have taken over Boruto's body during the time-skip

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According to this theory, Momoshiki has taken over Boruto’s body but temporarily lacks memories, including recollection of his identity and purpose, until the Karma mark activates to restore them. There are multiple reasons why Momoshiki would erase his memories, each with intriguing implications for the plot.

One reason could be that the protagonist’s soul still coexists within his body. If Momoshiki acted too recklessly, it could trigger a clash of their spirits, potentially leading to self-destruction. Previously, the protagonist would argue and clash with Momoshiki, but these conflicts ceased after Code’s fight, hinting that this memory erasure might prevent such conflicts from resurfacing.

Boruto's dojutsu as shown in the anime (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Another reason revolves around Momoshiki’s Byakugan and its ability to foresee the protagonist's future. By temporarily forgetting his past, Momoshiki might blend into Konoha, connect with allies like Kashin Koji, and leverage these relationships to pursue his own goals, possibly related to the Divine Tree or chakra fruit.

Given that Momoshiki is weaker in the protagonist’s body than in his original Otsutsuki form, this memory suppression may allow him to exploit his surroundings strategically.

Momoshiki Otsutsuki (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Additionally, some speculate that Momoshiki might be drawn to the life of a ninja, intrigued by Boruto’s resolve and strength. In a Superior Spider-Man-like scenario, where Otto Octavius’s mind inhabits Peter Parker, Momoshiki could similarly adopt the protagonist’s motivations and actions. With Kashin Koji’s possible future-vision abilities, Momoshiki could master ninja techniques like the Flying Raijin or Purple Lightning, adding a twist of cooperation between characters.

This situation also reflects elements from Death Note, where Light Yagami, without his memories, becomes a genuinely virtuous person. Similarly, a memory-lacking Momoshiki could adopt new ambitions, introducing complex transformations for both the protagonist’s character and the series’ direction.

Why the latest Boruto theory makes sense

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The theory that Momoshiki may have erased his own memories to avoid clashing with Boruto’s consciousness is compelling and aligns with his calculated nature. Memory erasure could allow him to move undetected within Konoha, bypassing the protagonist’s resistance and inner conflict.

However, this concept hinges on whether the memory loss is a deliberate choice or a side effect of possession. If it is unintentional, it might imply that Momoshiki is less strategic than initially presented, casting his actions as chaotic rather than controlled.

A snapshot of Borushiki (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Momoshiki’s strategic use of the protagonist’s body to gain allies and fortify his standing within Konoha aligns with his manipulative nature. By adopting the protagonist’s motivations or even ninja techniques, he could add unexpected complexity to his character, portraying him as more than a standard antagonist.

Parallels to Superior Spider-Man and Death Note underline the potential for transformative arcs, where a shift in values might lead Momoshiki toward redemption or new alliances. However, such a path must avoid diminishing the protagonist’s growth or overly humanizing Momoshiki.

Moving forward, the story should clarify the nature of Momoshiki’s memory loss and deepen the internal struggle between the protagonist and Momoshiki. Exploring these dynamics through relationships within Konoha, especially with characters like Kashin Koji, could bring new depth to the story, enriching both characters without overshadowing the protagonist’s development.

Final thoughts

The theory of Momoshiki’s covert return after suppressing his memories offers rich narrative possibilities. If true, it could redefine the series’ direction, heightening internal conflict, alliances, and character depth, leaving fans to question the evolving identities and allegiances of both Momoshiki and the protagonist.