My Hero Academia's Finale Proves One Hero Is the Series' Most Influential, And It's Not Deku

The My Hero Academia franchise is home to some of the most inspiring and beloved anime heroes of all time. Kohei Horikoshi, the creator of the beloved original manga, did an amazing job in presenting his characters as endearing role models that push readers to become better. Deku, the protagonist, is a perfect example of this trend, as his hard work and selfless attitude are what helped him become the greatest hero in history.

Yet, as proven by chapter #430 of the manga, he is not the most influential figure in the series. There is a character whose career and achievements continue to inspire the citizens of Japan, even years after his retirement: All Might. Toshinori Yagi is, and will likely always be, the most popular and beloved hero in the universe of the series.

All Might’s Statue Proves His Influence Is Still Felt

No Other Hero Had Such an Impact on the World

In chapter #430, seven years after the defeat of All For One, a boy by the name of Dai can be seen wandering around Mustafu City center, wondering if he can indeed be a hero. His journey takes him to one of the most important landmarks of the town, a statue of All Might in his iconic victory pose. This monument was shown several times throughout the story, with the last time it was depicted being Dabi's fight against his family during the deadly Final War arc, during which it was revealed that the statue had been vandalized by scared citizens.

The epilogue of the series reveals that this iconic monument was not only restored to its former glory but was also improved. Instead of depicting Toshinori alone, the statue is now accompanied by several other figures, symbolizing the support and trust put by Japan into the former number one. Almost a decade after the world was saved from the Symbol of Evil, this memorial continues to be an important landmark for the world, as proven by Dai deciding to visit it to find inspiration.

My Hero Academia Bakugo, Deku, and All Might

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Although the series does not explicitly state this, it heavily implies that All Might’s monument is considered the most important in Japan. It is the only statue shown in the chapter, and Horikoshi put a major emphasis on its appearance. Given their popularity among youngsters, revealed by their spots on the new Hero Rankings, it is likely that other characters like Bakugo or Shoto have similar monuments. Yet, even though he is no longer an active combatant, All Might continues to be the most important and cherished hero in Japan.

Not Even Deku Is as Beloved as His Mentor

Izuku’s Popularity Pales in Comparison to All Might’s

Even though All Might is undoubtedly deserving of the praise and admiration he receives in the My Hero Academia finale, his popularity leads to questions about how relevant other characters are to Japanese citizens. The lack of a memorial to Deku, who should be considered the savior of the world, has caused many to wonder whether he was treated unfairly during the manga’s epilogue. This has been one of the main criticisms fans have had of chapter #430 ever since it was released, as its contents made it seem like the protagonist was not as important as he should have been.

A closeup of All Might's face in hero form.

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When studied carefully, All Might’s statue is a clear example of how the Symbol of Peace continues to dominate the culture of the country. Seeing as Deku was the one who fought against Shigaraki and All For One, sacrificed the Quirks contained in One For All, and ultimately defeated them, he should be the most popular hero in the world. Nevertheless, he was not selected as one of the characters who stand beside All Might in the memorial. While it might seem like a small detail, this implies that Deku did not manage to achieve Toshinori’s popularity during his time as a hero.

All Might’s Career Explains Why He Is So Popular

He Was the Symbol of Peace for Several Decades

armored all might support items class a quirks mha

Despite how strange, and somewhat unfair, it can be for All Might to receive more support than Deku during the epilogue, the series itself has already explained why Japan loves Toshinori so much. Out of all the heroes introduced in the series, the Symbol of Peace is the only one who has been a constant in people’s lives for several decades. While most other heroes retired once they reached a certain age, Toshinori continued working and protecting his country from the threats trying to destroy it. His charisma, power, and determination made him an international celebrity.

Moreover, Izuku’s mentor continued to protect the innocent even after his retirement, putting his life on the line once again. His Armored All Might form was a vital part of the heroes’ victory against the Paranormal Liberation Front, as he gave his allies enough time for them to devise a plan to stop his arch nemesis. Toshinori is more than just the former number one; he is the embodiment of everything a hero should be to the Japanese people.

Deku Must Be Ecstatic About All Might’s Popularity

Izuku Never Wanted Fame or Glory

Deku using his Quirk and All Might in My Hero Academia

Izuku Midoriya is perhaps one of the most selfless and heroic anime characters in existence, being a role model for fans all over the world. Regardless of how important his contributions during the final battle were, he never once tried to become famous, nor did he demand praise. As such, it could be fair to assume that his lack of popularity and recognition is not something that bothers him. Izuku’s dream had always been to become a true hero who could save people with a smile, and not reach the top of the rankings.

What is more, Deku is a true All Might fanboy, several times more invested in the life of his idol than most other characters. The decision to improve Toshinori’s likely memorial was among Izuku’s ideas. Understandably, fans might feel frustrated about how irrelevant Midoriya seems to be to the world, but it is possible that he is happier like this. Besides, his best battles and heroic traits will always be celebrated by My Hero Academia fans for decades to come.