Boruto’s Potential Villainy Hinted at in the Manga’s Beginning

Since the beginning of the Boruto manga, there have been subtle hints scattered throughout the narrative, foreshadowing the potential for the main character’s transformation into an antagonist or “villain”as the story progresses. In earlier arcs such as the Versus Momoshiki, Ao, and Kawaki Arcs, Boruto’s choices and behaviors have consistently positioned him on the opposing side, whether it be morally or thematically.

This may have hinted at a gradual transition into a more hostile role. This captivating possibility has been cleverly woven into the story, allowing readers to ponder the potential direction of the character’s growth.

Boruto’s Moral Missteps That Foreshadowed Him to Be a Villain Later in the Series

The Versus Momoshiki Arc

Naruto catches Boruto cheating during the Chunin Exams (Image via Studio Pierrot)

The start of the anime and manga series is marked by the Versus Momoshiki story arc. This arc reveals the initial hints of the Hokage’s son’s potential to become a villain. While participating in the Chunin Exams, Boruto is caught by his parents, Naruto and Hinata, using a scientific ninja tool to cheat on the exams.

This deceptive behavior and disregard for exam rules is a disappointment to his parents and indicates a willingness to cut corners and break rules in order to achieve his goals. This character trait could potentially lead him towards a negative path in the future.

The Ao Arc

Ao is shown using a scientific tool in the series (Image via Studio Pierrot)

During the Ao Arc, Boruto expressed his disapproval of scientific ninja tools, mirroring his previous stance. He openly vocalized his dislike of them to Ao, a researcher heavily involved in their development. Surprisingly, Ao’s immediate response was to grab a screwdriver and almost attack the God Killer, suggesting that his dismissive attitude towards these tools could potentially endanger those who have put effort into their creation.

This occurrence emphasizes that he may not have a strong moral foundation. His behavior and convictions could potentially create conflicts with prominent individuals in the world.

The Kawaki Arc

Boruto used to openly show his hatred towards Kawaki (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Despite being welcomed into the Uzumaki home by Naruto, Kawaki, a former member of the Kara organization, is constantly treated with hostility and unfairness by the Hokage’s son in the Kawaki Arc, showcasing the potential for opposing behavior from the God Killer.

Despite his inability to empathize with Kawaki’s situation and his unwillingness to give him a chance, the protagonist’s actions reveal a selfish and judgmental side. This characteristic could potentially cause conflict with others who do not share his views and biases.

Momoshiki Otsutsuki dwells inside Boruto (Image via Studio Pierrot)

From the beginning, it is evident that the protagonist’s journey will not be a simple one filled with brave deeds and honorable decisions. The initial episodes suggest a more complex depiction of the main character, revealing him to have questionable behavior, pent-up anger, and possibly even a betrayal of those he is meant to protect.

Despite being the main character, the protagonist is portrayed as having flaws and a confrontational attitude, implying a complex portrayal that extends beyond a typical heroic figure. Instead of a perfect hero, we witness a character who can make mistakes, hold grudges, and potentially betray what he is supposed to defend.

Final Thoughts

Boruto Uzumaki after the timeskip (Image via Shueisha)

The initial story arcs of the manga suggested that Boruto Uzumaki could potentially become an antagonist in the world of the series. In the arcs featuring Momoshiki, Ao, and Kawaki, the Karma user displayed questionable behavior and mistreated others. He showed little regard for important rules and technologies, and was unwelcoming towards new individuals.

These actions served as the foundation for him to evolve into a complex and multi-faceted character, rather than simply a conventional hero. As the narrative progressed, Eida’s Omnipotence caused the Karma wielder to switch positions with Kawaki, transforming him into the villain of his own world and the one responsible for the death of Uzumaki Naruto, the Seventh Hokage.