Bakugo's highly anticipated return in the My Hero Academia manga couldn't have come at a better time. Author Kohei Horikoshi strategically brought back the young hero just before the 9th popularity poll of the series.
It is worth noting that Bakugo Katsuki has consistently ranked first in every popularity poll of My Hero Academia, with the exception of the initial poll won by Izuku Midoriya. However, with his prolonged absence from the plot, fans of Horikoshi's manga were anxious that Bakugo's winning streak might come to an end.
However, the mangaka astutely executed a brilliant move by introducing Bakugo right before the 9th popularity poll. Essentially, this opens up an opportunity for the fledgling hero to sustain his impressive winning streak, remaining unbeatable. Furthermore, Bakugo's well-timed return in the manga holds another significant reason, intricately linked to his dynamic with All Might.
Bakugo returns to My Hero Academia just before the 9th popularity poll
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Despite the official chapter not being out yet, leaked information regarding My Hero Academia chapter 403 unveils Bakugo's triumphant return to the forefront. It is revealed that after enduring a deadly attack from Shigaraki, Bakugo miraculously escapes with the intervention of the hero Edgeshot. Fuelled by determination, the young hero makes a resounding comeback, sparing no effort to rescue All Might from the clutches of AFO's fury.
Despite his battered and bruised appearance, Bakugo's resolute gaze radiated with potential. Empowered by newfound strength, Bakugo aimed to confront AFO in the upcoming manga chapters.
As previously mentioned, Bakugo's return in My Hero Academia was impeccably timed. The 9th and potentially final popularity poll for Horikoshi's manga is set to commence with the publication of chapter 403 (WSJ issue #46), as reported by the Weekly Shonen Jump.
Considering Bakugo's immense popularity among fans, consistently ranking first in seven out of eight popularity polls, Horikoshi's decision to reintroduce him just prior to the 9th poll was a brilliant move.
Bakugo, depicted in the anime (Image via Studio Bones)
At present, it is highly probable that Bakugo will continue his victorious streak. Based on the previous poll, the youthful hero amassed an astounding 13,731 votes, whereas Deku secured 8018 votes (2nd place).
Bakugo's comeback in the manga may see him emerging victorious once again in the next poll. As such, it's a brilliant marketing strategy by Kohei Horikoshi.
Bakugo has a chance to save his childhood hero, All Might, in My Hero Academia
Kohei Horikoshi's choice to bring back Bakugo during the epic clash between All Might and AFO undeniably enhances the storyline. Similar to Izuku Midoriya, Bakugo idolized All Might throughout his formative years. While he may not have openly expressed his admiration like Midoriya, there was a profound respect for the hero brewing within him.
Bakugo's unwavering admiration and deep concern for the indomitable hero were prominently displayed in Chapter 403 of My Hero Academia. In the face of all the adversity that befell him, he clutched onto All Might's card, symbolizing his profound connection to the legendary figure. Considering the thematic significance, it would be truly poetic if Bakugo propelled himself with unwavering determination, confronting All For One head-on, in his relentless pursuit to rescue his childhood mentor.
The confrontation between Bakugo and AFO is justified as the latter has previously underestimated him. This serves as an opportunity for the young hero to prove AFO's judgement wrong. Simultaneously, Bakugo's entrance enables Deku to concentrate entirely on his fight against Shigrakai. Consequently, it was an ideal moment for Horikoshi to reintroduce Bakugo into the storyline. Stay updated on the latest anime and manga developments throughout 2023.