Why did Tengen Uzui retire as a Demon Slayer? Explained

Modified Dec 24, 2024 07:30 GMT

Why did Tengen Uzui retire as a Demon Slayer? Explained (Image via Studio Ufotable)

Tenge͏n Uzui’s decision ͏to retire as a ͏Demon Slayer was an important moment in Demon Slayer: Ki͏metsu no Yaiba, showing the high price of fighting demons. After a fierce battle ͏against the Upper Rank Six demons͏, Daki͏ and ͏G͏yutaro, in the Entertainment͏ District Arc,͏ Te͏ngen suffered serious injuries, losing his͏ ͏left͏ arm and eye.

These wounds made it hard for him to keep fighting at the level expected of a Hashira. Combined with a promise to his wife Hinatsuru, Tengen chose to step down. His decision showed both his physical struggles and his wish to focus on his family and future.

Tengen's battle with Upper Moon Six prompted him to retire as a Demon Slayer

Tengen Uzui as shown in the anime (Image via Studio Ufotable)

Tengen Uzui’s decision to retire began after the tough battle against the Upper Rank Six demons, Daki and Gyutaro, during the Entertainment District Arc. This fight pushed Tengen to his limits. While he was a key part of the victory, it came with a high cost.

During the fight, Tengen suffered serious injuries, including losing his left arm and eye. Even with his amazing abilities and mastery of sound-based combat techniques, these injuries greatly reduced his ability to fight effectively.

A snapshot of Gyutaro (Image via Studio Ufotable)

As͏ a Hashira, part of the elite ranks of the͏ Demon Slayer Corps͏, Tengen was expected to perform at the ͏highest level to fight powerful demons. The physical toll he͏ endured made ͏it clear that staying in such a demanding͏ role was no longer possible.

The battle also fulfilled a promise he made to his wife, Hinatsuru. In a touching flashback, Hinatsuru had asked Tengen to retire if they managed to defeat an Upper Rank demon. This request came from her deep concern for his safety and her hope that they could live a peaceful life together.

Tengen, who deeply loves and respects his wives, took this promise seriously. After the victory over Gyutaro and Daki, he decided to honor Hinatsuru’s wish, confirming his choice to retire from active duty.

Tengen's new role in the Demon Slayer Corps post-retirement

Tengen and his three wives as shown in the anime (Image via Studio Ufotable)

Tengen Uzui’s͏ retirement was not just about his physical injuries; it was͏ also͏ a͏ choice ͏to put his family first. As a ͏caring husband to his three wives, Hinat͏su͏ru, Makio, and Suma, Tengen’s love and respect for ͏them played a big part in his decision.

The battle against the Upper Rank Six demons was a clear reminder of the risks he faced every day as a Hashira. By stepping down, Tengen made sure he could spend more time with his family and protect them from more pain.

Even after retiring from combat, Tengen did not completely leave the Demon Slayer Corps. Knowing how valuable his experience and skills were, he took on a new role as a mentor. Along with his wives, he started training new recruits, focusing on building their stamina and endurance.

Tengen returned in the Hashira Training to train fellow Demon Slayers (Image via Studio Ufotable)

This new role let Tengen continue helping the Corps in their mission to defeat demons while living a safer life. His decision showed his strong commitment to the cause and his ability to take on new challenges.

Tengen’s retirement also reflected a bigger theme in Demon Slayer: the personal cost of the fight against demons. The series often highlights the sacrifices its characters make, and Tengen’s story is a strong reminder of the physical and emotional toll that constant battles can take.

Final thoughts

A snapshot from the anime series (Image via Studio Ufotable)

Tengen Uzui retired as a Demon Slayer due to his serious injuries, a promise to his wife, and his wish to focus on family. Though he stepped back from fighting, he stayed committed by training new recruits, showing how the series balances the demands of duty with personal sacrifices.