Was Izuna as strong as Madara in Naruto? Explained

Modified Jun 17, 2024 02:43 GMT

Was Izuna as strong as Madara in Naruto? Explained (Image via Studio Pierrot)

The Uchiha clan was one of the most skilled and powerful groups in the Naruto world. Two key members, Madara and Izuna Uchiha, had a unique bond as brothers, and fans have long debated whether Izuna was as mighty as Madara. As members of the renowned Uchiha clan, both Madara and Izuna wielded the potent Sharingan eye technique and honed formidable combat skills from a young age.

During their youth, the narrative portrayed them as near equals, with each unlocking the powerful Mangekyo Sharingan and rising as prodigious warriors. However, as the story unfolded, Madara's power grew exponentially, leaving some to wonder if Izuna could ever truly match his extraordinary elder brother.

Who is Izuna in Naruto?

Izuna Uchiha was Madara Uchiha's younger sibling. Madara led the Uchiha clan and was incredibly powerful. Izuna was a skilled warrior too, respected for his abilities during the Warring States Period. As Tajima Uchiha's second son, Izuna trained from childhood to become a strong shinobi.

Izuna's close bond with Madara shaped the Uchiha clan's history. The competitive brothers constantly pushed each other, sharpening their skills. This rivalry, combined with their natural talents, made them fearsome fighters. Izuna matched Madara's might and prowess, a key factor in understanding their dynamic and the Uchiha clan's ultimate fate.

Naruto: Izuna's strength and abilities

Madara Uchiha (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Izuna Uchiha was an expert ninja with formidable skills. Like his sibling Madara, he mastered the Sharingan eye technique. This enabled him to foresee foes' attacks, copy their jutsu, and cast powerful illusions. He excelled in Fire Release ninjutsu common to the Uchiha clan. Izuna could unleash devastating fire techniques like Fireball Jutsu with great skill. His accuracy with shuriken earned him the moniker "Izuna of the Shuriken."

Notably, Izuna attained the Mangekyō Sharingan's heightened abilities. While details are scarce, this advanced Sharingan granted unique powers. His Mangekyō prowess matched Madara's before the latter gained the Eternal Mangekyō form. Izuna's diverse talents, coupled with his mastery over the Sharingan's stages, solidified his fearsome reputation on the battlefield.

Izana Uchiha was said to be equal to Madara Uchiha (Image via Shueisha)

Izuna's skills spanned offensive fire ninjutsu, ranged weapon expertise, illusory Genjutsu, and perception-enhancing Dojutsu techniques. This versatile arsenal made him a force to reckon with. His unwavering resolve and strategic mind further complemented his formidable abilities, cementing his legacy as a shinobi of exceptional caliber within the renowned Uchiha clan.

Izuna vs Madara, the verdict

The bond between Izuna and Madara Uchiha was intricate, defined by brotherly affection and intense rivalry. They were considered equals in strength during their prime. Madara even acknowledged Izuna's prowess as matching his own.

However, the power balance shifted when Izuna was mortally wounded by Tobirama Senju, the Second Hokage, during one of the many clashes between the Uchiha and Senju clans. On his deathbed, Madara took Izuna's eyes, allowing the former to awaken the Eternal Mangekyō Sharingan – a more potent and stable Mangekyō Sharingan form.

With the Eternal Mangekyō Sharingan, Madara's abilities grew exponentially, surpassing even Izuna's formidable skills. Madara's mastery of Susanoo, a powerful defensive and offensive Mangekyō Sharingan technique, and his other Mangekyō abilities solidified his position as the stronger brother.

It's crucial to note that although Izuna was considered Madara's equal before acquiring the Eternal Mangekyō Sharingan, Madara's continued growth and inheritance of Izuna's eyes ultimately made him the undisputed stronger sibling.

Izuna's untimely demise at Tobirama Senju's hands effectively sealed his fate as the lesser of the two legendary Uchiha brothers.

Final thoughts

Izana and Madara Uchiha (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Izuna Uchiha left an indelible mark on the Naruto realm. Though once equal with Madara, his illustrious sibling surpassed him. Acquiring the Eternal Mangekyō Sharingan fueled Madara's ascent. Yet, Izuna's sacrifice bolstered his brother's journey, shaping pivotal events.

His devotion echoes through Uchiha annals, a testament to the brotherhood's bond. While overshadowed by Madara's prowess, Izuna's legacy resonates as a catalyst for destiny's unfolding.