Ikemoto Teases Kawaki’s Role as Potential Next Hokage in Boruto: Two Blue Vortex

In Boruto: Two Blue Vortex chapter 14, fans observed the discontent among the Konoha elders regarding Shikamaru Nara’s handling of Boruto. Koharu Utatane cautioned Shikamaru that he could face significant consequences for his inability to restrain Boruto, even while he was in their custody.

The question arises: what ramifications could Shikamaru encounter as the acting Hokage? As the head of the village, the primary consequence that could befall him, apart from his removal from the position, would be his dismissal as interim Hokage. This scenario implies that the Daimyo of the Land of Fire may soon appoint a new Hokage by ousting Shikamaru from his role.

In this context, a Boruto fan on Reddit, u/zero787878, speculates that creators Mikio Ikemoto and Masashi Kishimoto may decide to designate Kawaki as the next Hokage in the manga.

Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers from the Boruto: Two Blue Vortex manga.

How does Ikemoto intend to establish Kawaki as the next Hokage in Boruto: Two Blue Vortex?

Shikamaru and Koharu as seen in Boruto: Two Blue Vortex manga (Image via Shueisha)

As seen in the preceding chapter, Shikamaru Nara instructed Mitsuki to release Boruto from the sealing jutsu under the guise of interrogation. However, the Konoha elders and shinobi were oblivious to this, mistakenly believing that Shikamaru was merely risking Boruto’s safety by employing Mitsuki to inflict torture.

Konohamaru Sarutobi even cautioned Shikamaru that Mitsuki might directly confront Boruto, jeopardizing their questioning efforts. As anticipated, Mitsuki “attacked”Boruto, allowing the “outsider”to escape from Konoha, much to the rage of the Konoha elders.

Boruto and Tento as seen in the Boruto manga (Image via Shueisha)

Koharu Utatane therefore warned Shikamaru that the Daimyo would be displeased with the situation, indicating that he could suffer serious repercussions for his decisions. Ultimately, the most significant action a Daimyo could take against Shikamaru would be to remove him from office and appoint a new Hokage.

Looking at the current Daimyo of the Land of Fire, it’s worth recalling his previous involvement in the Boruto: Naruto Next Generations manga. During that arc, Boruto formed a bond with the Daimyo’s son, Tentō Madoka, which could now turn into a burden in Boruto: Two Blue Vortex.

Given the events following the Omnipotence Shinjutsu, Tentō might now regard Kawaki as his ally instead of Boruto, leading the Daimyo to prefer Kawaki should a new Hokage be appointed.

This was hinted at in the manga’s sixth chapter, where Shikamaru declined the position of Eighth Hokage. Such a refusal negatively reflected on the image of the Hidden Leaf Village, while the Konoha elders were eager for reform.

Kawaki as seen in the Boruto anime (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Per the insights of u/zero787878, this could potentially explain Kawaki’s altered attire in the flash-forward from the manga’s first chapter. If Kawaki does ascend to the role of Hokage, a wardrobe change could be in order.

While this scenario may appear unlikely given Kawaki’s age, the elders are known for their questionable decisions within the Naruto-Boruto universe. Furthermore, fans should recall that Gaara was appointed as the Kazekage at a similar age. Thus, the notion of Kawaki becoming the Hokage cannot be entirely dismissed.

This development was also subtly suggested by Mikio Ikemoto and Masashi Kishimoto during a recent event in France, where they mentioned that Kawaki is poised for significant character growth. Although this remains unconfirmed, it’s possible that their hint pertains to Kawaki’s future role as the Eighth Hokage.

Source