Unmasking Toji Fushiguro: Jujutsu Kaisen's Misunderstood Character Revealed

Season 2 of Jujutsu Kaisen really shone a light on many characters, but Toji Fushiguro seems to have benefitted the most from MAPPA's adaptation. He has gone from being a beloved character in the series' fandom to becoming one of the most popular figures in the entire anime community, which is quite significant.

As a result, it's no surprise to see many Jujutsu Kaisen fans diving into discussions about Toji's story, particularly his complicated relationship with the Zen'in clan and whether he was truly a villain. Although his actions in the Hidden Inventory arc were questionable and had a major impact on future events, it's intriguing to consider whether he can be labeled as a villain, an antagonist, a good guy, or a mix of all three.

Exploring if Jujutsu Kaisen's Toji Fushiguro was a villain or not

Toji Fushiguro's impact on Jujutsu Kaisen is undeniable, particularly in the Hidden Inventory arc. His actions have a decisive influence on the character arcs of Satoru Gojo, Master Tengen, Suguru Geto, and even extend to characters like Kenjaku (acquiring Geto's body) and Yuta Okkotsu and Yuji Itadori (due to Gojo's decision to become a teacher).

Despite only appearing in a flashback arc and making a minor comeback during the Shibuya Incident, some fans have questioned whether Toji was truly a villain, given the abuse and rejection he suffered from his own clan, the Zen'in, for being born without Cursed Energy despite possessing incredible and almost superhuman strength due to his Heavenly Restriction.

Exiled by the Jujutsu society, he gained notoriety as a slayer of sorcerers due to his career as a mercenary, taking on dubious assignments to survive. This led to his fateful encounter with Gojo and Geto when he was tasked with eliminating Riko Amanai, who was under the protection of the two powerful sorcerers.

He doesn't fit the traditional villain stereotype, as his motives in the Hidden Inventory arc were driven by a desire for profit, despite his disdain for sorcerers. It's conceivable that he would have been willing to collaborate with sorcerers for the right price.

Although Toji suffered unjust mistreatment from his family, his numerous heinous actions make it clear that he is not a virtuous individual, but rather an antagonist.

The appeal of Toji's character in Jujutsu Kaisen

Toji became a beloved character in the series for a variety of reasons, with his unique fighting style being one of them. Despite lacking Cursed Energy, he utilized special weapons and remarkable strength to develop an unconventional approach to combat. This approach was so distinctive that author Gege Akutami incorporated similar elements into the character of Maki Zen'in in subsequent story arcs.

In addition to his fighting abilities, Toji's well-designed character served as an effective contrast to powerful figures such as Satoru Gojo and Suguru Geto. Despite being considered less powerful on paper compared to these Special Grade sorcerers, Toji relied on strategy and planning to gain the upper hand. This is particularly evident in his encounters with Gojo, as only Ryomen Sukuna would eventually manage to defeat the white-haired sorcerer in future story arcs.

Final thoughts

Toji Fushiguro is arguably not portrayed as a villain in Jujutsu Kaisen, as his motives in the Hidden Inventory arc were primarily driven by financial gain. Nonetheless, he remains a morally ambiguous character, and his influence on the narrative results in negative consequences for the development of various characters.

Editor's P/S

Toji Fushiguro, a complex and enigmatic character in Jujutsu Kaisen, has captivated fans with his intriguing backstory and unique abilities. Despite lacking cursed energy, Toji's exceptional physical strength and strategic prowess make him a formidable opponent, even for powerful sorcerers like Satoru Gojo and Suguru Geto. His unconventional fighting style, which relies on specialized weapons and meticulous planning, sets him apart from other characters in the series.

While Toji's actions in the Hidden Inventory arc may raise questions about his morality, it's important to consider the context of his circumstances. Exiled by the Zen'in clan due to his lack of cursed energy, Toji was forced to survive as a mercenary, taking on dangerous assignments to make ends meet. His disdain for sorcerers stems from the discrimination and rejection he faced from his own family and the jujutsu society. Despite his questionable choices, Toji's character evokes a sense of empathy and understanding, as he is ultimately a product of the harsh and unforgiving world he inhabits.