Naruto: Who is stronger between Shishui and Itachi Uchiha? Explained

The Naruto series features numerous incredibly strong shinobi who have made significant impacts on the series through their crucial roles in pivotal battles. Within this group, the Uchiha clan’s shinobi are highly respected for their exceptional fighting abilities, making them some of the most powerful fighters in the entire series.

Itachi Uchiha, known as the ‘Clan Killer’ for his brutal annihilation of his entire clan, is among the most formidable characters in the Naruto series. He has successfully defeated formidable opponents such as Kakashi Hatake, Deidara, and Nagato Uzumaki.

Despite this, there is a certain character that fans frequently mention as a worthy adversary to Itachi’s unparalleled strength: Shisui Uchiha, who was hailed as the most talented Uchiha of his time.

Shisui Uchiha’s Abilities in Naruto, Explained

Shisui Uchiha as seen in Naruto (image via Studio Pierrot)

Shisui Uchiha was a highly skilled and formidable shinobi within the Uchiha clan. He was particularly recognized for his mastery of the Body Flicker Technique, earning him the nickname “Shisui of the Body Flicker.”This ability allowed him to disappear without a trace, making him virtually undetectable.

It is noteworthy that Shisui was among the small number of individuals who could awaken the Mangekyo Sharingan. He claimed that it enhanced his proficiency in casting powerful genjutsu, enabling him to ensnare multiple individuals from a considerable distance. Additionally, it granted him the use of a distinctive genjutsu called Kotoamatsukami, which permitted him to enter the mind of anyone in his immediate vicinity and control their thoughts and behaviors.

In addition, Shisui was known for his unparalleled agility and swiftness, enabling him to remain undetected by sensor ninja and create after-images that could effectively defeat his enemies. Additionally, his expertise in Taijutsu and Ninjutsu solidified his position as one of the most skilled members of his prestigious clan.

Understanding Itachi Uchiha’s Abilities in Naruto

Itachi Uchiha as seen in the Naruto anime (image via Pierrot)

Despite being responsible for the downfall of his entire clan in one night, Itachi Uchiha was still highly regarded by the Uchiha clan for his exceptional talent as a shinobi during his younger years.

At a young age, he quickly rose to become one of the most powerful shinobi in Konoha, surpassing even Orochimaru and Kakashi. In addition to his mastery of Taijutsu, Ninjutsu, and Genjutsu, he also had a keen ability to learn new techniques simply by observing them. Like Shisui, Itachi was also skilled in using the Body Flicker Technique.

Shisui and Itachi as seen in the Naruto anime (image via Pierrot)

Itachi’s mastery of the Sharingan was evident at the young age of 8, and he quickly honed his skills to become a proficient user. His expertise in Genjutsu was equally impressive, enabling him to incapacitate his enemies and swiftly end any confrontation.

After witnessing Shisui’s suicide, Itachi awakened the Mangekyo Sharingan, granting him the ability to use Amaterasu to ignite anything he gazed upon with black flames. Additionally, he could also use Tsukuyomi to trap and inflict severe damage on his enemies’ minds, manipulating their perception of the world in a powerful illusion.

Itachi’s Analysis of Power Dynamics

Itachi claimed that Shisui was always slightly stronger than him in the Naruto series (image via Pierrot)

At the age of 5, Itachi met Shisui for the first time. They quickly became friends and developed a brotherly bond. Shisui often sparred with Itachi and provided him with training to improve his skills as a shinobi. However, their close relationship came to a tragic end when Shisui committed suicide and passed on his left eye to Itachi, allowing him to awaken his Mangekyo Sharingan.

Itachi has always held a great deal of respect for Shisui, as he once acknowledged that Shisui was always slightly stronger. Therefore, it can be inferred that Shisui maintained his strength until his death, surpassing Itachi.

Despite this, one could make the case that Itachi’s power level surpassed Shisui’s after the latter’s passing. This is especially evident considering Itachi’s awakening of the Mangekyo Sharingan following the tragic event of his childhood friend’s suicide. While it may be intriguing to contemplate a potential showdown between the two, it is likely that Itachi would emerge as the victor if his devastating illness is not taken into account.