Izuku Midoriya and Katsuki Bakugo shared a childhood bond, but that camaraderie transformed into a bitter rivalry over time. Bakugo’s intense dislike for Izuku created a rift that seemed unbridgeable. Yet, as they faced challenges in the world of heroes, they inspired one another, leading us to ask: Did Deku and Bakugo ever rebuild their friendship by the end of My Hero Academia? Let’s explore their journey and the fate of their relationship.
Spoilers Warning:
This article contains spoilers about Deku and Bakugo’s relationship in My Hero Academia. Proceed with caution.
Why Did Bakugo and Deku Stop Being Friends?
Bakugo’s animosity towards Izuku was not born from mere rivalry. It stemmed from Bakugo’s insecurities and a profound misunderstanding of Izuku, who had always been his steadfast supporter. Bakugo was celebrated for his explosive quirk, while Izuku was quirkless and timid. This disparity resulted in Bakugo bullying Izuku throughout their childhood. Despite the constant torment, Izuku idolized him, which only fueled Bakugo’s jealousy, especially once Izuku acquired the One For All quirk from All Might.
You wanna be a hero so bad? I’ve got a time-saving idea for you. If you think you’ll have a Quirk in your next life, go take a swan dive off the roof! – Bakugo
When Izuku officially joined U.A. High, Bakugo’s feelings of betrayal intensified. He perceived Izuku’s hidden talents as a duplicitous act, further eroding their bond. The tension hit a breaking point during their training together as they began their hero studies. When Bakugo discovered that All Might had entrusted his quirk to Izuku, his jealousy turned into uncontrollable rage, leading to a climactic battle. Fortunately, All Might intervened, guiding Bakugo to channel his insecurities into a more constructive rivalry.
Katsuki Bakugo’s Apology to Izuku in MHA
Bakugo’s journey to redemption began with self-reflection and accountability. This became evident during their intense battle with Tomura in the Paranormal Liberation War arc, where Bakugo risked everything to protect Izuku. The pivotal moment came in the Dark Hero arc—when Bakugo, face to face with Izuku, finally apologized. He acknowledged his past behavior, expressing, “I always looked down on you because you were quirkless… I kept you at arm’s length and bullied you. But this past year has forced me to understand your strength and my weakness.”
Now I don’t expect this to change anything between us, but I have to speak my truth, Izuku. I’m sorry for everything.
In that moment, Bakugo transitioned from a rival to a true ally, reminding Deku that their collective effort was crucial in their heroics. Their dynamic shifted, facilitating their growth into exemplary heroes who inspired one another rather than hindered each other.
Deku and Bakugo Become Good Friends Later in Life
In the aftermath of their final war, Izuku and Katsuki emerged not just as rivals but as true friends. After a significant sacrifice, Deku lost his One For All to defeat Tomura. This left Bakugo deeply affected, as his own aspirations were impacted. When Deku became quirkless again, Bakugo stepped up, funding a mechanical suit that allowed him to resume his hero duties.
Their friendship blossomed further in the series’ conclusion. Bakugo encouraged Izuku to focus on himself and connected him with his special person, Ochaco Uraraka. Despite their rocky beginnings, creator Kohei Horikoshi masterfully developed a unique, rich bond between Izuku and Katsuki, helping them find camaraderie amidst rivalry.
So, what’s your favorite moment between Deku and Bakugo in MHA? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Does Bakugo ever respect Deku?
Yes! Bakugo always harbored a respect for Deku, which became more evident in the final arcs of MHA.
Does Bakugo ever stop being mean to Deku?
Bakugo indeed stopped bullying Deku following their fight, taking All Might’s advice to heart.
What does Bakugo feel about Deku?
Bakugo possesses a profound respect and admiration for Deku which drives him to enhance his own abilities as a hero.
This journey highlights how complex relationships can evolve. If you enjoyed this exploration of Deku and Bakugo, consider checking out more content at Moyens I/O.