As the epilogue of author and illustrator Kohei Horikoshi’s beloved original manga unfolds, fans are convinced that they have witnessed the most epic fights in My Hero Academia. Although there may be a few more battles in the epilogue, it is highly unlikely that they will surpass any of the previous fights in scale.
Similarly, fans are currently engaged in heated discussions about the top My Hero Academia fights, operating under the belief that the epilogue will not introduce any contenders. While this subject is inherently based on personal opinion, there are multiple battles from the series that are frequently regarded as the greatest My Hero Academia fights.
Disclaimer: The following article contains the author’s personal opinions and major spoilers for the My Hero Academia manga. Reader discretion is advised.
Deku’s Involvement in the Best Fights in My Hero Academia
Deku vs Gentle Criminal
Although not the most intense battle in the series, the clash between Deku and Gentle Criminal still holds a place among the top My Hero Academia fights for several important factors. Primarily, this fight holds great significance for Izuku “Deku”Midoriya’s development as a character, as it forces him to come to terms with the fact that he may have to fight against villains whom he does not despise or have a personal vendetta against.
Additionally, this fight marks one of the first instances in the series where Deku is driven by personal reasons, his determination fueled by the desire to ensure a successful cultural festival for Eri’s enjoyment. Moreover, the fight is impressively choreographed, with the clash between One For All and Gentle’s Elasticity Quirk providing a captivating, albeit brief, battle.
Hawks and Twice Face Off Against Dabi
One recurring element in the top My Hero Academia battles is their strong connection to the characters’ development and evolution. This is also evident in the clash between Hawks and Twice & Dabi, which stands out as one of the most humanizing scenes for a villain in the series. The focus on Twice’s emotions and response to Hawks’ betrayal adds depth to his character.
Dabi’s role in the fight is to enhance its visual appeal with his impressive and dynamic moves, making it a spectacle to behold. Although he also experiences personal growth and motivation towards the end, his main focus is elevating the fight’s visual quality. Additionally, Hawks’ Quirk is a visual treat on its own and when combined with the chaotic Quirks of Twice and Dabi, creates an irresistible and captivating experience.
Deku vs Overhaul Battle
The battle between Deku and Overhaul is just as intense, as Deku is deeply affected by Overhaul’s mistreatment of Eri. He fights with a fierce determination, fueled by his strong feelings for Eri. As a result, viewers are equally invested in the outcome of the fight, as they are able to empathize with Deku’s passionate emotions.
Visually, this fight is considered to be one of the most stunningly animated in the anime series and one of the most masterfully choreographed in the manga. In both versions of the battle, Deku utilizes 100% of One For All’s power for the first time, making it no surprise that this fight is a delight to behold.
7) Battle between Deku and Shoto Todoroki
Deku versus Shoto Todoroki was hailed as one of the greatest fights in My Hero Academia for a significant amount of time. Even now, there are some who maintain this belief and they have a valid argument. This battle holds immense emotional significance as it marks a crucial moment in Deku’s journey towards developing his own ideals of heroism. These ideals continue to guide him throughout the series, culminating in his final showdown with Tomura Shigaraki.
Regardless of the medium in which it is viewed, the fight is a pure visual spectacle. However, the use of animation elevates it to the next level. The climactic final scene of the fight showcases this, with static shots of Shoto and sweeping pans of the battlefield following Deku as he makes his final attack.
Deku, Iida, and Todoroki Take on Stain
Completing the lower half of the list is a highly anticipated battle that occurs in the beginning of the series, as Deku, Shoto, and Tenya Iida face off against a notorious villain for the very first time. Although it was Iida who initially initiates the encounter, the trio ultimately joins forces and demonstrates their true heroism in the face of the formidable Hero Killer Stain. Each student shines in their own way by the conclusion of the fight, whether through their development or impressive abilities.
The fight is highly significant as it reinforces All Might’s initial belief in Deku, as seen by others. Although subtle, it confirms Deku’s abilities as the real deal, creating an exciting moment for fans. Undoubtedly, this three-on-one battle deserves recognition among the top My Hero Academia fights.
Deku vs Katsuki Bakugo
The fight between Deku and Katsuki Bakugo in My Hero Academia is widely considered to be one of the best in the series, and for good reason. It serves as a culmination of the story thus far, showcasing the growth and development of Deku as he strives to catch up to his peers who have had their Quirks since childhood. This is exemplified by the Kamino Ward arc, where All Might challenges Deku to step up and take on his role, despite any doubts or uncertainties he may have.
This pivotal moment for Deku is when he ultimately loses the fight against Bakugo, yet manages to earn his rival’s respect and prove that he can keep up with him. Additionally, Bakugo learns the truth about One For All during the fight, which plays a crucial role in the series’ development. Despite the intense visuals that make the fight captivating, the fact that all of these elements are achieved makes it worthy of mention.
Battle of the Titans: All Might vs All For One in Kamino Ward
The Kamino Ward arc’s inclusion in the list of top My Hero Academia fights is a significant moment for the series as a whole. The ultimate showdown between All Might, who possesses One For All, and All For One, showcases the two characters’ strengths and solidifies All Might’s retirement from being a Pro Hero with a triumphant win. Despite his defeat, All For One remains a formidable and intimidating villain.
Visually, the battle against All For One is one of the most enthralling and captivating moments in both the anime and manga mediums. The fight’s direction is a major standout, with a distinct and creative vision evident in every important scene. This is particularly evident in the climax, which effectively conveys the ongoing war that has spanned generations against All For One.
Bakugo’s Battle Against All For One
Referring to All For One, Bakugo’s contribution in defeating the enemy who once saw him as a prime candidate is undeniably one of the top My Hero Academia battles. Although the anime has not yet portrayed this fight, it was truly a visual spectacle in the manga, with remarkable fight sequences and stunning double-page spreads. Additionally, this fight showcases Bakugo’s Quirk Awakening, resulting in an exhilarating and unforeseen conclusion as he rescues his mentor’s life in the process.
Despite the significance of the visuals and power progression, the fight holds great importance for both the series and its fanbase. It marks Bakugo’s triumphant return after being presumed dead for over a year in the real world. Additionally, it showcases Bakugo’s potential to become the next Symbol of Peace, achieving what even All Might could not by defeating All For One once and for all.
Final Battle: All Might vs All For One
Despite being unpowered while wearing it, the Armored All Might suit is essentially an Iron Man suit designed specifically for All Might. This leads to a brutal slugfest between All For One and Armored All Might, setting Bakugo up for victory. This fight is easily All Might’s best in the series and one of the top fights in My Hero Academia. The significance of the fight lies in the fact that each of the suit’s abilities is named after a Class 1-A hero.
The fight’s choreography and art play a significant role in its high ranking, making it one of the most visually stunning and satisfying fights in the entire series. The intense artwork depicting All Might’s descent into madness from the excruciating pain, along with an All For One who is genuinely terrified for the first time in the series, creates a perfect balance of tone. Each attack is also a treat for the eyes, making it impossible to overstate the quality of this fight.
Deku’s Final Showdown Against Shigaraki
Despite previous underwhelming skirmishes between Deku and Shigaraki, the final fight in the series is undeniably one of the best in My Hero Academia. It not only surpasses their previous encounters, but also involves the entire Class 1-A and more in a visually captivating and thrilling battle. This grand battle showcases the full extent of their Quirks and makes up for any previous lackluster fights.
Despite Deku’s ultimate sacrifice, he is ultimately forced to come to terms with the fact that even giving his all may not result in achieving his ideals. While the ongoing epilogue may slightly lessen this devastating loss, its absence does not affect its ranking as the greatest fight in Horikoshi’s manga.
In Conclusion
Despite the various factors that contribute to the recognition of each of the aforementioned battles as among the greatest in My Hero Academia, a common thread can be found among most of them. This is the underlying narrative and emotional impact of the fights, as nearly all of the top My Hero Academia battles involve some form of character development or personal investment.
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