My Hero Academia's final volume cover shows Deku as the true All Might successor

Modified Nov 20, 2024 20:30 GMT

Deku stands as All Might's true successor in Volume 42 cover (Image via Sportskeeda)

My Hero Academia ended after 10 short years (2014 to 2024) with 430 chapters published across 42 volumes. The series was immensely successful in captivating fans around the globe with its heartfelt story of Izuku Midoriya, aka Deku. Born Quirkless in a society thriving on Quirks (superpowers), his fate changed following a fateful encounter with Number 1 Hero, All Might.

The green-haired boy inherited All Might's Quirk, One For All, and the rest is history. As the manga drew the curtains on its brilliantly-written story, the cover of the final volume had the fandom buzzing. Creator Kohei Horikoshi had one final gift to give to the lovers of the series: the cover of Volume 42 bears a striking, symbolic image that comes full circle from the Volume 1 cover.

My Hero Academia: Deku stands as All Might's true successor in Volume 42 cover

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Before delving into this feature, reference to Volume 1 needs to be made. When My Hero Academia first began serializing in 2014, the story was quick to garner a strong fanbase that continued to grow throughout the life of the manga. At the time, All Might stood as the Number 1 Hero in the series. Hence, the cover of Volume 1 showcased All Might in his famous stance with a little image of Deku.

Now, 10 years and 430 chapters later, Deku has replaced All Might as his successor. The cover of Volume 42 features Deku standing resolute, wearing a t-shirt that has the features of All Might's signature smile and his two distinct hair tufts. Through this image, Deku exudes determination and maturity, staying true to his idol's motto of always donning a smile regardless of the situation.

Needless to mention, the fandom was thrilled at such a sight, quick to notice the parallels with All Might’s iconic stance. It reflected Deku’s development into a Hero worthy of spearheading superhuman society. Moreover, such imagery captures his journey from Quirkless to a Beacon of Hope capable of protecting others. The cover recognizes Deku’s evolution while also honoring My Hero Academia’s legacy.

Fans buzzing with excitement at My Hero Academia coming full circle

As soon as Volume 42's cover was released, fans began to draw parallels between it and the cover of Volume 1. They were thrilled to see that Deku finally achieved his dream of becoming a Hero people could rely on. Moreover, with All Might retired, the mantle had been passed on and the Volume 42 cover recognizes Izuku Midoriya as the successor of Yagi Toshinori.

"Bro! This is actually making me tear up a little. It’s an amazing final cover!" a fan exclaimed.

There were tears of joy when the final volume's cover was revealed. As mentioned, the imagery is a near-perfect depiction of Deku taking up the mantle held by All Might. The battle scars on Deku's face and arm are a testament to the immense struggle he faced, but then again, nothing worth having comes easy.

"I love this anime it changed my life," a netizen commented.

Another side of the fandom credited Horikoshi's manga with changing their lives. My Hero Academia explores themes like the essence of heroism, the importance of resolve and determination, and of course, the strength of friendship and teamwork.

The author found inspiration in the concept of weaving together a world where quite literally anyone could become a Hero, which in turn seemingly inspired countless people across the globe to better themselves and become Heroes in their own lives.

"Like master like student no he has his successor to train in the next volume 42 and I can’t wait to see it," an X user voiced.

Another side of the fandom is still hungry for more, i.e., waiting to see Deku truly embrace the All Might role and become a mentor. Similar to the Volume 1 cover, the Volume 42 features another kid, pictured in the same way Deku was. This is hinting at the cycle repeating itself as student turns master and mentor to this child. But if there will be more or not is yet to be confirmed.

"Thank for for an entertaining couple of years- top 5 anime of all time- prove me wrong," an MHA lover wrote.

Finally, fans were full of praise and thanks for Horikoshi for giving them My Hero Academia. Although it was 10 years, the sheer quality of the manga made it feel significantly less. Moreover, many fans have placed the superhero series in their Top 5 lists among other highly rated anime/manga. Truly, the series was a journey witness, and the entire fandom feels fortunate to be a part of it.