Unraveling the Mystery: Yuji's Ability to Inflict Pain on Mahito in Jujutsu Kaisen

The recent release of Jujutsu Kaisen episode 20 showcased some incredible moments, including Aoi Todo’s dramatic entrance, the intense battle between Yuji and Mahito, the use of the powerful Black Flash technique, and more. One of the most surprising highlights was Yuji’s ability to inflict permanent damage on Mahito, a feat previously thought impossible due to the latter's regenerative abilities. Throughout the series, Mahito has been virtually impervious to harm, given his embodiment of human hatred. However, his acknowledgement of Yuji as his natural enemy, first revealed during their initial confrontation, hints at a significant development in their ongoing conflict.

Explaining why Yuji can hurt Mahito in Jujutsu Kaisen

Ever since Mahito was introduced in Jujutsu Kaisen during his first battle with Nanami Kento, it has been made clear that he is impervious to harm from individuals who lack a comprehension of the soul. According to Mahito, the soul precedes the body and molds it, meaning that in order to harm him, the other person must have an understanding of their own soul.

Yuji Itadori has had to come to terms with being the vessel of Ryomen Sukuna, constantly keeping the curse at bay within himself. This has led him to better understand his own soul, enabling him to inflict harm on Mahito. As a result, the curse himself acknowledges Itadori as his "natural enemy," as he is particularly effective in their confrontations.

This could also shed light on Mahito's desire to cause suffering to Yuji. By torturing his natural enemy and weakening him mentally, Mahito aims to ultimately kill him. This thematic element by author Gege Akutami highlights the direct opposition and conflict between the two characters throughout the Jujutsu Kaisen series.

The value of the rivalry between Yuji and Mahito

Mahito and Yuji (Image via MAPPA).

The rivalry between Mahito and Yuji is a standout feature of the Jujutsu Kaisen series, developed over several arcs by Gege Akutami. The long-awaited showdown between the two in Shibuya has been brewing since the introduction of Junpei Yoshino, adding depth and anticipation for the audience.

Mahito's cruel and self-centered nature is in stark contrast to Yuji's kind and selfless character, intensifying their rivalry and captivating the audience. Mahito's ruthless actions, such as killing Junpei, Nanami, and Nobara in front of Yuji, only serve to fuel Yuji's determination to defeat him.

Final thoughts

Many fans have debated that Yuji's character reached its peak during the Shibuya Incident arc. If this is true, then Mahito's influence becomes even more valuable as they contrast each other extremely well and create a highly entertaining dynamic.

Final thoughts

Yuji is able to defeat Mahito because the latter can only be injured by those who possess a deep understanding of their own soul, a concept that is fully realized due to Yuji's experience as Sukuna's vessel. This concept is introduced in the earlier segments of the Jujutsu Kaisen series.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z fan of Jujutsu Kaisen, I am thrilled to see the development of Yuji's character and his ability to inflict pain on Mahito. The recent episode 20 showcased some incredible moments, and I was particularly excited to see Yuji finally able to damage Mahito. This is a significant turning point in their rivalry, and I can't wait to see how it plays out in future episodes.

I also appreciate the deeper exploration of Mahito's character and his motivations. His desire to cause suffering to Yuji is a fascinating twist, and it adds a new layer of complexity to their relationship. Overall, I am very impressed with the way the Jujutsu Kaisen series is developing, and I can't wait to see what happens next.