Deku remains the biggest inspiration for Bakugo and the latest My Hero Academia one-shot proves it

My Hero Academia is kept alive, even after its conclusion, thanks to Kohei Horikoshi's additional content. This comes in the form of periodic one-shots that reveal fascinating information about the series and provide updates on characters. The latest one featured intriguing details such as All For One's real name, Eri's new career path, the updated Hero Rankings, and more.

Regarding the updated Hero Rankings, they appear to have improved and pleased many fans. For one, Mirio Togata retains the No. 1 spot as the highest-ranked Hero. Below him are Shoto (2nd), Mt. Lady (3rd), and impressively enough, Deku and Bakugo hold the 4th and 5th spots respectively. While this feels like a win for fans of the blonde, it also speaks of a reignited rivalry.

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My Hero Academia: Latest one-shot proves that the Deku-Bakugo rivalry lives on

Bakugo and Deku (Image via Studio Bones)

The initial part of the My Hero Academia series witnessed Bakugo bullying and looking down on Deku. Being Quirkless, he felt like he didn't fit into society and could never realize his dream of becoming like his idol, All Might. However, a run-in with the Symbol of Peace drastically changed his fate, bestowing upon him One For All (OFA), and the rest is history.

But this also marked a change in Bakugo when he witnessed Deku suddenly showcasing a Quirk. At first, it was confusing and anger-inducing for him, as he struggled to understand how something like this happened. But once he learned the truth, his outlook on the boy changed. Coupled with his personal growth, he began to see the green-haired teen as a rival.

Deku's constant work on controlling OFA and refining his moveset pushed Bakugo to do the same. It must be acknowledged that by the final battle, Bakugo had come leaps and bounds from where he started. He taught himself to use his Quirk in the most creative ways possible, and his drive to beat Deku was a major reason for his stubbornness to never give up.

Bakugo and Deku (Image via Studio Bones)

As seen in My Hero Academia chapter 431, he grew to be a refined young hero, though with occasional outbursts, and even sought to work with Deku. The latter's new suit was why he could return to the frontlines and do what he loved—be a hero. Now, as seen in the latest one-shot, Bakugo yet again found inspiration in his rival and friend. This is even hinted at by their being ranked one below the other.

Needless to mention, they both individually improved as well—Bakugo jumping from 15th to 5th while Deku moved into 4th from outside the top 50. This is definitely a strong motivator for the blonde to keep pushing and striving to be better bit by bit. With the new generation of heroes that have emerged, it is up to them to fight threats like AFO that threaten the very balance of the world.

All in all, Bakugo has undergone considerable character development and has held on to the rivalry with Deku. Rightfully so, both of them knowingly and unknowingly pushed each other to get better. Again, they each embody different ideals and approaches to being a hero, and with how things are progressing, they seem to excel at it.

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In conclusion

Katsuki Bakugo (Image via Studio Bones)

My Hero Academia's latest one-shot reaffirms that the Deku-Bakugo rivalry remains a potent force in the series' legacy. Their updated Hero Rankings highlight not just personal growth but also acknowledge their rivalry as a catalyst for mutual improvement. Initially starting with bullying, their relationship has evolved into a strong bond of regard and competition.

Bakugo’s rise from 15th to 5th and Deku’s leap into 4th illustrate the distance they have come, both as individuals and Heroes. This progress reflects the commitment of the next generation to protect society and uphold Heroic ideals. Overall, their enduring rivalry, rooted in shared history and mutual drive, epitomizes the core theme: challenge, growth, and camaraderie build greatness.

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