All Might Saved Bakugo in My Hero Academia From Becoming a Villain
Without All Might’s influence, Katsuki Bakugo from My Hero Academia could have easily veered into villain territory. Known for his explosive personality and fierce ambition, Bakugo has all the makings of a powerful character—yet it’s All Might’s role in his life that has kept him focused on heroism rather than villainy.
Let’s take a closer look at how All Might’s guidance prevented Bakugo from becoming a villain and why this relationship is central to his character.
Bakugo’s Explosive Nature and Ambitions
Katsuki Bakugo is introduced as a fiery, headstrong character whose Quirk, Explosion, perfectly matches his aggressive demeanor. Bakugo's explosive ability allows him to ignite nitroglycerin-like sweat from his palms, creating blasts that propel him and intensify his combat moves.
This skill set combined with his single-minded pursuit of victory makes him one of the most powerful students at U.A. High. However, his strength and intense desire to be the best often isolate him from his classmates and have occasionally led to conflicts, especially with his longtime rival Izuku Midoriya.
Bakugo’s ambition and frustration have also made him a target for villains, such as when the League of Villains tried to recruit him. His reaction to their offer—rejecting it outright—demonstrates his strong moral compass. Yet without a role model like All Might, this ambition could have easily evolved into resentment or bitterness, leading him to question the hero system or embrace a path to power that disregards morality.
All Might's Influence as a Guiding Light
From the very beginning, Bakugo has idolized All Might, regarding him as the epitome of heroism. All Might represents the highest standard of strength and justice, traits Bakugo deeply respects. When he joins U.A. High, Bakugo learns that All Might is also guiding Midoriya, his biggest rival, which initially frustrates him but ultimately challenges him to grow.
This rivalry shapes Bakugo’s journey, forcing him to confront his own weaknesses and reconsider what it means to be a true hero.
All Might’s presence at U.A. High serves as an anchor for Bakugo, teaching him that being a hero goes beyond raw power and combat ability. All Might’s lessons and sacrifices demonstrate to Bakugo the importance of protecting others, even if it means putting one’s own ambitions aside. Without All Might, Bakugo might have chosen a path that prioritizes his own strength over helping others.
Villain Tendencies: What Could Have Been
Bakugo’s early behavior reflects qualities that villains often possess—intense competitiveness, anger, and a desire to assert dominance. These traits make him a complex character and hint at a possible alternate path as a villain. Throughout the series, Bakugo's harsh treatment of others, including Midoriya, has raised questions about his moral alignment.
However, All Might’s mentorship ultimately teaches Bakugo to channel these traits constructively, shaping him into a hero who can inspire and protect.
In a world without All Might’s presence, Bakugo’s strength and ambition could have led him down a darker path. His encounter with the League of Villains showcases how villains recognize his potential; they see his frustrations and try to exploit them. Fortunately, All Might’s influence acts as a safeguard, inspiring Bakugo to stay true to his ideals. By viewing All Might as the ultimate hero, Bakugo is reminded that his strength should serve a greater purpose than personal victory.
Final Thoughts
All Might’s impact on Katsuki Bakugo highlights the crucial role of mentors in shaping young heroes. While Bakugo’s ambition and power could have led him astray, All Might’s example teaches him to direct his energy toward protecting others.
Without this influence, Bakugo might have easily crossed the line between hero and villain. Instead, he continues to grow as a hero, proving that even the most intense personalities can be molded by the right guidance.
