Understanding Sukuna’s Strength in Jujutsu Kaisen: The Most Misunderstood Aspect

In recent years, *Jujutsu Kaisen* has captivated audiences with its rich and varied character lineup, with Gojo and Sukuna emerging as the main figures of the series, often overshadowing the protagonist, Yuji. The ongoing discussion regarding who holds the title of the strongest—Gojo or Sukuna—remains active, even after the conclusion of the story. Notably, the discussion about Sukuna’s tendency to restrain his full power plays a significant role in these power-scale evaluations.

After his striking victory against Gojo, Sukuna made quick work of nearly every jujutsu sorcerer introduced in the storyline. While many fans see Sukuna as inherently powerful from the onset, his actions during his various encounters imply that his formidable strength coincides with his innate nature. This intrinsic quality drives him to meticulously examine every detail of curse techniques following their encounter.

Disclaimer – This article contains spoilers for the *Jujutsu Kaisen* series.

Jujutsu Kaisen: The Source of Sukuna’s Power Lies in His Innate Nature

Gojo as depicted in the anime (Image via MAPPA)

Both Sukuna and Gojo are positioned as extraordinary entities within the *Jujutsu Kaisen* realm, with their very existence instigating disorder and imbalance. Gojo, endowed with the revered Six Eyes and the Limitless technique, required intense training to harness their full potential and claim the title of the strongest.

Sukuna, on the other hand, possessed unique advantages; his extra limbs and mouth enabled him to engage in hand-to-hand combat while simultaneously utilizing jujutsu techniques. Throughout the series, Sukuna’s demeanor often suggests he was holding back—a concept that initially implies he never exerted his full potential. However, the reality is more nuanced.

While it’s evident that Sukuna didn’t unleash his complete power, especially during his battle with Gojo, this was not simply a choice to prolong the fight. Instead, he appeared to be weighing the possibility of escalating the confrontation to include the sorcerers as his next challenges.

Sukuna as depicted in the anime (Image via MAPPA)

Despite his extensive array of abilities, he strategically utilized only a fraction, showcasing a level of restraint that reveals tactical foresight. This wasn’t merely a game for him; it was a deliberate strategy to maximize his odds of ultimate success while conserving energy.

Even though Sukuna consistently displays a high level of control, a fundamental aspect of his character might be the cornerstone of his tremendous strength, intelligence, and indefatigable curiosity regarding jujutsu techniques.

His relentless inquisitiveness has become so deeply embedded within him that it feels instinctive. For instance, his proficiency in Megumi’s Ten Shadows technique exemplifies this, as does the brief duration needed for him to grasp the Hasaba twins’ curse technique.

Heian Era Sukuna as shown in the manga (Image via Shueisha)

Sukuna’s continuous scrutiny and adaptability illustrate that for him, jujutsu transcends mere utility; it is a phenomenon he strives to master. This motivation became more pronounced when he encouraged Higuruma to summon the Executioner’s Sword, not out of need but from a desire to explore its capabilities.

The essence of Sukuna’s formidable power is deeply rooted in this intrinsic curiosity. His analytical approach to jujutsu techniques is so ingrained that it occurs naturally, permitting him to perceive every bout as a learning experience.

Sukuna often approaches fights without a serious commitment until the final moments since he views each confrontation as an opportunity to enhance his comprehension of jujutsu. This methodology ultimately contributed to his downfall against Yuji, as he failed to unleash his complete strength from the start.

Concluding Thoughts

Sukuna’s character arc, displaying a primarily self-serving demeanor throughout the series, underwent significant evolution. Even in the concluding moments, he acknowledged his defeat at Yuji’s hands and began to contemplate an existence where he might choose a different path. The conclusion of *Jujutsu Kaisen* came with chapter 271, leaving fans yearning for more, with no announcements for continuations or spin-offs.

The anime series continues to be in production, with *Jujutsu Kaisen* Season 3—set to adapt the Culling Games arc—expected to air sometime in 2025. Given the series’ immense popularity, there is reasonable anticipation for additional projects or spin-offs to be unveiled alongside the release of season 3.

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