Kawaki’s character design hints at a potential crusade in Boruto’s opening flash-forward

The opening sequence of the Boruto anime foreshadows a dark future, as it shows a heated battle between Kawaki and Boruto Uzumaki, who are now older characters. The intense fight takes place in the destroyed village of Konoha, suggesting that Kawaki has turned against his former ally and the community that once accepted him. This glimpse into the future hints at a major change in Kawaki’s journey, possibly motivated by a nefarious purpose.

Kawaki’s appearance is marked by a unique accessory that resembles either a scarf or a weight around his neck. This peculiar adornment holds a symbolic significance, hinting at possible explanations for his actions in the series’ somber timeline. Understanding the meaning behind this neck accessory may unveil the driving factors behind Kawaki’s character development and his ultimate objectives.

Exploring Kawaki’s Symbolic Scarf in Boruto

Kawaki has been shown wearing a scarf after the time skip (Image via Studio Pierrot)

The neck accessory that Kawaki wears in Boruto is believed to be more than just a scarf – some theories suggest it could be a set of weights or a weighted collar. This small detail holds great meaning, representing the heavy burden that he has chosen to carry on his shoulders.

In a glimpse of the future, Kawaki appears determined in his quest, firmly believing that it will mark the end of the shinobi era. His unshakeable determination is most likely a result of the traumatic experiences and suffering he endured at the hands of Jigen and the Kara organization.

Code as shown in the series (Image via Studio Pierrot)

The weighted collar serves as a tangible representation of the inner turmoil and burden that Kawaki carries. His unwavering determination to dismantle the shinobi world reflects his strong belief that this path will ultimately lead to a brighter future, despite the overwhelming obstacles he faces. The constant presence of the collar serves as a reminder of his unwavering resolve and the weighty responsibility he has shouldered, driven by the scars of his past and a vision for a better world.

Boruto: Embracing the Dark Side of the Leaf Village

Kawaki was filled with hatred at the start of the series (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Despite the intense criticism and condemnation he knows he will face, Kawaki’s choice to wear weights reflects his acceptance of suffering and hatred as necessary steps towards achieving his goals. He understands the burden this decision brings, but embraces it as a necessary sacrifice.

The weights around Kawaki’s neck are a powerful representation of his willingness to bear the burden of hatred and suffering. He sees it as his predetermined destiny and the path he is meant to follow, and the constant presence of the weights serves as a reminder of the path he has willingly chosen. This serves as a visual depiction of his unwavering dedication to his cause, despite the sacrifices it may require.

Boruto: All you need to know about Kawaki

A screenshot from the time skip sequence of the anime series (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Kawaki was brought up by Jigen, the leader of Kara, with the intention of becoming Isshiki Ōtsutsuki’s vessel. He is first discovered unconscious near the Land of Fire by Team 7. Due to the mistreatment he endured from his biological father and Kara, Kawaki initially displays hostility and disrespect towards others.

Despite his initial negative outlook, Kawaki develops a strong brotherly bond with Boruto Uzumaki after being taken in by Naruto Uzumaki. As the series progresses, he undergoes a shift in perspective, thanks to the influence of his new family. Kawaki’s left hand bears a unique power known as Karma, in the form of a black diamond-shaped seal. This seal grants him various abilities, including the power to absorb attacks. With the enhancements provided by this seal, Kawaki becomes an even more formidable fighter.

Final Thoughts

Kawaki and Boruto as shown in the series (Image via Studio Pierrot)

The unique appearance of Kawaki shown in the series’ preview of the future, particularly his noticeable scarf or collar, suggests interesting potential for his character’s development.

This accessory serves as a representation of Kawaki’s personal mission or cause, which he has taken upon himself with the belief that it will bring about significant change in the shinobi world. Despite the possibility of encountering hatred and challenges, he appears ready to bear this responsibility, indicating a heightened and zealous mindset that adds complexity to his character.