As the My Hero Academia series nears its end with only one chapter remaining, now is the ideal moment to reflect on some of the most memorable battles within the story.
As with any battle-shonen manga, My Hero Academia delivers a multitude of thrilling fights. The power system in the story, known as Quirks, provides a wide array of options for battles – ranging from powerful punches to shooting lasers. Kohei Horikoshi’s series truly has it all.
Although the majority of battles in superhero anime and manga are exhilarating and expertly executed, a select few stand out above the rest. These particular fights not only get the heart racing and provide excitement, but they also make a lasting impact on both the characters involved and the audience.
In order to create our list, we carefully chose the top 10 My Hero Academia fights that significantly shape the storyline and are expertly portrayed, both in terms of visuals and plot. However, if you have not read the manga, please be aware that there will be spoilers ahead.
10. Deku vs. Left
Episodes: 23 (Chapters 38-40)
The U.A. Sports Festival is known for its captivating story arcs in My Hero Academia, and the Deku vs. Shoto match is a major highlight. Prior to this match, Shoto’s character had not been fully explored, with only a glimpse into his complex family dynamic with his father.
As the match commences, Shoto remains steadfast in his goal of defeating Deku without relying on his fire. Meanwhile, Deku is resolute in his mission to help his classmate embrace his abilities. This sets the stage for a gripping and emotionally charged battle between the two boys that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.
This fight has numerous positive aspects. It provides an opportunity for both boys to showcase the powers of their Quirks and carries a significant emotional weight. Witnessing Deku endure intense suffering for Shoto is both heart-wrenching and profoundly uplifting.
9. Second Showdown: Deku vs. Bakugo
Episodes: 61 (Chapters 117-121)
Deku and Bakugo have a long-standing history together. They were childhood friends who shared a deep admiration for All Might. However, as they grew older, Bakugo’s behavior towards Deku changed and he became a bully towards him for many years. It appeared that Bakugo held a strong dislike for the green-haired boy.
Despite his outward hostility, Bakugo’s true emotions were rooted in deep-seated insecurity. He constantly compared himself to Deku and felt inadequate, a feeling that only intensified when the One For All user saved him from the League of Villains. This event ultimately led to All Might’s retirement after his battle against All For One in Kamino.
Filled with feelings of culpability and uncertainty, as well as the realization that Deku inherited his Quirk from All Might, Bakugo boldly confronts Deku following the Provisional Hero License Exam. This results in a fiery confrontation between the once close companions, forever altering their relationship.
8. Endeavor vs. High-End Nomu
Chapters: 186 to 190, corresponding to episodes 87 to 88
Endeavor, likely the most morally ambiguous character in My Hero Academia, is far from being a typical hero. For many years, he harbored jealousy towards All Might, who held the prestigious title of the number-one hero. Eventually, his wish is fulfilled when All Might decides to retire.
Despite having previously learned about Endeavor’s past wrongdoings and developing a dislike for him, Kohei Horikoshi’s skillful portrayal of his character makes it impossible for us not to root for him as he confronts the Nomu after rising to the position of number one.
Endeavor uses all of his strength and abilities to safeguard the citizens from the Nomu in this epic battle. The stunning visuals, thrilling action, and emotional turmoil make it an important first step for Endeavor on his path to redemption.
7. The Ultimate Showdown: All Might vs. All For One (final)
The range of chapters is from 396 to 404.
Despite his retirement, All Might continues to demonstrate his unwavering dedication and strength when called upon. This is evident in the Final War Arc of My Hero Academia, where he delivers one of the most epic battles.
Ever since the beginning of the war, All For One has been causing chaos on the battlefield. However, his reign of terror comes to a halt when he faces his long-time rival, the one who inflicted the most harm upon him. Sadly, All Might is no longer the mighty hero he once was.
Despite this, the previous Symbol of Peace continues to confront the villain with the help of support items, transforming into ‘Armored All Might’. Utilizing the abilities of his students, the determined hero persists in the battle until he is ultimately defeated.
6. The Battle Between Deku and Overhaul
Episodes: 75 – 77 (Chapters 156 – 159)
The Shie Hassaikai Arc is widely considered to be the most somber plotline in My Hero Academia. The actions of Overhaul, also known as Kai Chisaki, towards Eri are unforgivable.
Despite being a formidable opponent, Overhaul possesses a Quirk that surpasses Shigaraki’s Decay. Whereas Decay can only destroy, Overhaul’s Quirk has the unique ability to both deconstruct and reconstruct simultaneously.
Similarly to many battles in My Hero Academia, this one is filled with intense emotional moments, particularly when Deku persists in fighting despite Eri’s Quirk continuously harming him. While the manga effectively portrays this, the anime takes it to even greater levels.
5. Ochako vs. Toga (final)
Chapters: 375-376, 380-382, 389-395
Some of the most notable battles in the Final War are exceptionally impactful to the plot. Ochako’s climactic fight against Toga is among these few, and it is also undeniably one of the most stunningly illustrated fights in My Hero Academia.
The final showdown between Ochako and Toga holds great significance for various reasons. As one of the main antagonists, Toga poses a constant threat to heroes due to her powerful Twice Army. However, after Ochako emerges victorious, the clones finally vanish, leading to the heroes’ ultimate triumph.
During the battle, Ochako’s Quirk Awakening occurs and she is able to touch Toga’s heart with her selfless empathy. Despite being badly injured, the villain sacrifices herself in order to save the young hero’s life.
Todoroki Family vs. Dabi
Sections: 387 – 390
The storyline of the Todoroki family is one of the strongest in My Hero Academia, with each character in the dysfunctional family being exceptionally well-written.
Despite it being an open secret, we have been anticipating Dabi to confront his father and brother, which he does during the war. However, the family’s involvement in the battle to prevent Dabi’s devastation comes as a surprise.
Despite the fatal burns that drove him to insanity, Dabi remains determined to destroy Endeavor. However, just as the hero is prepared to face his nemesis, Rei intervenes and uses her cooling abilities to calm her son. Soon, Fuyumi and Natsuo also join in, until Shoto arrives and brings an end to the battle.
3. Bakugo Takes on All For One
Sections: 405 – 410
Throughout My Hero Academia, Bakugo has undergone the most significant character growth, making him a beloved character among fans. This transformation can be seen in subtle moments, but it becomes especially evident during the war.
Despite being killed by Shigaraki, he was later revealed to be alive thanks to the help of Edgeshot in several chapters. However, due to the extensive damage to his body, he was unable to stand straight, let alone defeat the powerful villain.
Despite some fans’ criticisms, Bakugo continues to show why he is a beloved character by giving All For One a formidable fight. Furthermore, he further solidifies his place on this list by heroically rescuing All Might from the clutches of the villain just in the nick of time. If this isn’t enough to prove his worth, then what will?
2. The Battle Between All Might and All For One at Kamino
Chapters: 89 to 94, corresponding to episodes 48 to 49.
Despite My Hero Academia not yet beginning, All Might remained the most powerful hero. Even after his battle with All For One resulted in severe damage to his internal organs, his status as the strongest did not waver. However, this left him in a weakened state and incapable of sustaining his hero duties for an extended period of time.
Being a One For All user, All Might’s main objective is to put an end to All For One’s reign of terror. He remains dedicated to this cause, even after passing on his Quirk to Deku. The resulting battle is so iconic that it fills us with pride and brings tears to our eyes.
Despite being weakened by the last remnants of One For All, All Might manages to defeat All For One, putting a temporary end to his reign of chaos. In the aftermath, the Symbol of Peace exposes his true condition to the public and steps down, entrusting Deku with the responsibility of carrying on the torch.
Deku vs. Shigaraki (final)
Chapters: 379 – 380, 384, 398, 402 – 404, and 410 – 418
It comes as no surprise that the title of the best My Hero Academia fight goes to the final showdown between Deku and Shigaraki. This is not just because it features the protagonist and primary antagonist, but also because it fulfills all the expectations that have been building up over the years.
Despite being the main focus of the Final War Arc, this battle has been drawn out for quite some time. However, once it commences, it quickly becomes intense. With the destruction of their surroundings and Deku losing his Quirk, it encompasses everything.
Moreover, the final confrontation highlights Deku’s unwavering determination to rescue the victim trapped within Shigaraki. As he delves into Tenko’s tragic history, he is able to truly empathize with him, leading to a long-awaited understanding between the two. Despite its sudden and startling conclusion, it remains the standout among the rest.
These 10 are our top picks for the best fights in My Hero Academia. Additionally, we would like to mention the highly thrilling and plot-important battles between Deku and his classmates, as well as Deku and Bakugo against Nine in the second My Hero Academia film. Although these honorable mentions were exceptional, we found the top 10 to be even more impressive.
You might also want to know the questions My Hero Academia must address before it concludes.
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