My Hero Academia (Boku no Hero Academia) has captured the hearts of millions with its unique take on superheroes, character-driven storytelling, and themes of perseverance, justice, and hope. At the center of this massive story stands Izuku Midoriya, better known as Deku. From a boy born without powers in a world where almost everyone has a Quirk, Deku’s rise to becoming one of the greatest heroes is one of the most inspiring arcs in modern manga.
For Deku fans, certain chapters stand out as milestones—moments where his character truly shines, grows, and cements his role as the successor of One For All. These chapters aren’t just about action but about heart, courage, and the struggles that make Deku so relatable.
Chapter 1: Izuku Midoriya: Origin
Every hero’s story begins somewhere, and for Deku, it starts in the very first chapter.
In Chapter 1: Izuku Midoriya: Origin, we are introduced to a boy who dreams of being a hero but is born without a Quirk. In a society where nearly 80% of people are blessed with powers, this makes him an outcast. His classmates bully him, and even his childhood friend Katsuki Bakugo sees him as useless. Despite this, Deku never loses his admiration for heroes—especially All Might, the No.1 Hero and symbol of peace.
The emotional core of this chapter comes when Deku, Quirkless and fragile, runs headfirst into danger to save Bakugo from a sludge villain. Even though he has no powers, his instinct is to help, and this act of bravery moves All Might deeply. For the first time, someone recognizes that Deku has the heart of a hero.
Why it matters:
- Sets the foundation for Deku’s character.
- Shows his courage and selflessness.
- Introduces the legendary connection with All Might.
This chapter is essential because it’s not just the beginning of Deku’s story—it’s the moment that proves being a hero is not about having powers but about having the will to act.
Chapter 11: Game Over
By Chapter 11, Deku has already stepped into the world of heroes as a student at U.A. High School. The students face their first major crisis during the U.S.J. (Unforeseen Simulation Joint) incident, where the League of Villains attacks.
In Chapter 11: Game Over, Deku faces real danger for the first time. He is thrown into a life-or-death situation where the villains intend to kill All Might and destroy the students. This is not training—this is reality. Deku’s fear is clear, but so is his resolve.
One of the most powerful moments in this chapter is when Deku, despite his inexperience, thinks quickly and uses One For All strategically to defend his classmates. He realizes the immense weight of his power and how dangerous it can be if misused.
Why it matters:
- Shows Deku’s first true test against real villains.
- Highlights his analytical mind and tactical thinking.
- Establishes the seriousness of the villain threat.
For fans, this chapter is a turning point because Deku starts to transition from a student who “wants to be a hero” to someone who must act like one under pressure. It’s the first taste of the responsibility he carries.
Chapter 75: End of the Beginning, Beginning of the End
The Hero Killer Stain arc is one of the most iconic in My Hero Academia, and Chapter 75 stands out as a defining moment for Deku and the entire story.
After the battle with Stain, the heroes and public are shaken. Stain’s ideology—that society’s heroes are fake and motivated by money or fame—strikes deep into the world of My Hero Academia. Even though Stain is a villain, his beliefs resonate with many, and his influence spreads across Japan, inspiring villains and shaking faith in heroes.
For Deku, this chapter is vital because it shows the world he is stepping into. Being a hero is not just about fighting villains—it’s about facing ideological challenges and standing firm in his beliefs. He reflects on his fight with Stain and realizes the importance of becoming a hero who saves not just lives but also inspires hope.
Why it matters:
- Marks a major shift in the story’s tone and themes.
- Shows Deku’s growing maturity and understanding of heroism.
- Establishes the broader societal conflicts he will face.
Fans love this chapter because it’s not just action-packed—it’s philosophical. Deku begins to understand that his role is bigger than fighting; it’s about embodying what it means to be a hero in a world full of doubt.
Chapter 190: His Start
By the time we reach Chapter 190: His Start, Deku has already grown significantly, but this chapter reveals something entirely new about his Quirk.
While the focus of the arc is Endeavor proving himself as the new No.1 hero, Deku experiences a mysterious vision of the predecessors of One For All. For the first time, he sees glimpses of those who carried the Quirk before him, including All Might’s master, Nana Shimura.
This revelation shocks Deku because it shows that One For All is more than just raw power—it carries the will and history of its users. This moment expands the mythos of the Quirk and sets Deku on a path of discovering its hidden abilities, which eventually leads to the awakening of additional powers like Blackwhip.
Why it matters:
- Expands the lore of One For All.
- Connects Deku more deeply to the legacy of past heroes.
- Marks a new stage in his growth and power.
For Deku fans, this chapter is thrilling because it deepens the mystery around One For All and shows that Deku is not just inheriting All Might’s strength—he’s inheriting the dreams and burdens of every hero who came before him.
Chapter 285: Katsuki Bakugo Rising
Few chapters hit as hard emotionally as Chapter 285: Katsuki Bakugo Rising.
In this chapter, Deku faces Tomura Shigaraki, who has become nearly unstoppable after evolving his Decay Quirk and enhancing his strength. Deku pushes One For All far beyond safe limits, fighting recklessly to protect his friends and everyone around him. His body is breaking under the strain, but he refuses to stop.
The highlight of this chapter, however, comes from Bakugo’s actions. For years, Bakugo looked down on Deku, bullied him, and considered himself superior. But in this moment, Bakugo risks everything and sacrifices himself to save Deku from Shigaraki’s deadly strike. It’s a moment of redemption, showing how much Bakugo has changed and how much Deku means to him.
Why it matters:
- Shows Deku’s unbreakable resolve in battle.
- Highlights the deep bond and evolution of his relationship with Bakugo.
- Demonstrates the heavy cost of being a hero.
This chapter is unforgettable because it blends high-stakes action with raw emotion. It shows that Deku’s journey is not one he walks alone—his friends, especially Bakugo, are part of what makes him strong.
Conclusion
Deku’s story is filled with countless amazing chapters, but these five stand out as the most defining for his character:
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Chapter 1: Izuku Midoriya: Origin – The beginning of his heroic dream.
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Chapter 11: Game Over – His first true test against villains.
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Chapter 75: End of the Beginning, Beginning of the End – A turning point in ideology and growth.
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Chapter 190: His Start – The discovery of One For All’s legacy.
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Chapter 285: Katsuki Bakugo Rising – A chapter of sacrifice, friendship, and resilience.
Each of these moments highlights Deku’s journey from a powerless boy to the inheritor of the greatest Quirk, from a timid student to a leader who inspires others. They capture the essence of why fans love Deku—his courage, his heart, and his relentless pursuit of becoming a hero who saves with a smile.
FAQs About Deku’s Best Manga Chapters
Q1. What is the most important chapter for Deku’s origin?
Chapter 1: Izuku Midoriya: Origin is the most important, as it shows how his journey as a hero begins.
Q2. Which chapter shows Deku’s first real fight against villains?
Chapter 11: Game Over highlights Deku’s first serious test against actual villains during the USJ incident.
Q3. Why is Chapter 75 considered a turning point?
It shows the ideological impact of Stain, making Deku realize being a hero is more than just fighting—it’s about ideals.
Q4. What chapter reveals the secret of One For All’s past users?
Chapter 190: His Start introduces Deku’s vision of the predecessors of One For All.
Q5. Which chapter has Bakugo saving Deku?
Chapter 285: Katsuki Bakugo Rising is where Bakugo sacrifices himself to protect Deku.
