Top 15 Strongest Characters in My Hero Academia

© Kohei Horikoshi / Shueisha, My Hero Academia Project, TOHO Animation

In the world of My Hero Academia, power reigns supreme as heroes and villains clash in epic battles that test the limits of their extraordinary Quirks. From explosive abilities to reality-warping powers, each character brings a unique force to the fight, shaping the destiny of society itself. As the students of U.A. High School push themselves to become pro-heroes, they face increasingly dangerous threats from villains who seek to plunge the world into chaos. Whether it’s the legendary power of All Might, the fiery determination of Endeavor, or the deadly ambitions of Shigaraki Tomura, the strength of these characters is undeniable.

This blog delves into the top 15 strongest characters in My Hero Academia, showcasing the incredible abilities that set them apart in this high-stakes world of heroes and villains. From the most explosive students to the darkest villains, each entry highlights their defining battles, strategic prowess, and unmatched power. Whether hero or villain, these characters stand as the titans of My Hero Academia, leaving an indelible mark on the fight between good and evil. Let’s explore the mightiest forces that make this series a thrilling spectacle of strength, determination, and heroism.

Strongest Characters in My Hero Academia:

Table of Contents/Quick Navigation

• Katsuki Bakugo

• Eraser Head (Shota Aizawa)

• Rumi Usagiyama (Mirko)

• Best Jeanist

• Dabi

• Overhaul (Kai Chisaki)

• Mirio Togata (Lemillion)

• Hawks

• Gigantomachia

• Endeavor

• Cathleen Bate (Star and Stripe)

• All For One

• Izuku Midoriya (Deku)

• All Might

• Shigaraki Tomura (All for One)

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15. Katsuki Bakugo:

© Kohei Horikoshi / Shueisha, My Hero Academia Project, TOHO Animation

Quirk: Explosion

Notable Feats: Bakugo's Explosion Quirk allows him to create powerful blasts from his sweat, which contains nitroglycerin-like properties. He has honed his Quirk to become one of the most versatile and explosive students at U.A. High School.

Bakugo's strength lies not only in his raw power but also in his sharp mind and strategic thinking. His explosive personality and drive to be the best have pushed him to excel in combat, making him a top contender for the number one hero spot.

Bakugo’s development throughout My Hero Academia is remarkable. Starting as an arrogant and aggressive student, he has gradually learned to work with others and harness his power more effectively. His battle with Midoriya during the Provisional Hero License Exam showcased his incredible growth as both a fighter and a person. Bakugo's victories during the Joint Training Arc, where he led his team to an overwhelming win without taking any damage, highlight his strategic brilliance and sheer power.

Bakugo has faced some of the toughest villains in the series, including Shigaraki Tomura and members of the League of Villains. His role during the Paranormal Liberation War arc was crucial, as he fought alongside Midoriya and others against overwhelming odds. Bakugo’s sacrifice during the battle to protect Deku demonstrated his evolving sense of heroism and teamwork. Despite his brash nature, Bakugo has proven time and time again that he is one of the strongest Characters in my hero academia and most capable heroes in training.

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14. Eraser Head (Shota Aizawa):

© Kohei Horikoshi / Shueisha, My Hero Academia Project, TOHO Animation

Quirk: Erasure

Notable Feats: Aizawa's Erasure Quirk allows him to cancel out the Quirks of anyone he looks at, making him one of the most versatile and feared Pro Heroes. He has used his Quirk to nullify dangerous villains, such as the League of Villains and even Shigaraki Tomura during the Paranormal Liberation War. His combat skills, combined with his Quirk, make him an invaluable asset to the hero society.

Aizawa’s ability to erase the Quirks of even the most powerful enemies, coupled with his extensive combat training, makes him a force to be reckoned with. Despite his stoic and tired demeanor, Aizawa is a highly intelligent and strategic fighter. His role as a teacher at U.A. High School also adds to his strength, as he trains and shapes the next generation of heroes. Aizawa’s sacrifice and dedication during the Paranormal Liberation War prove his commitment to protecting society at all costs

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Related: Top 10 Strongest Female Characters in My Hero Academia: Name and Quirks

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13. Rumi Usagiyama (Mirko):

© Kohei Horikoshi / Shueisha, My Hero Academia Project, TOHO Animation

Quirk: Rabbit

Notable Feats: Mirko's Rabbit Quirk gives her enhanced strength, speed, and agility, making her one of the most physically powerful heroes in the series. Her ability to leap great distances and deliver powerful kicks makes her a formidable opponent in battle. During the Paranormal Liberation War, Mirko took on multiple High-End Nomus and proved her strength and determination, even when facing near-fatal injuries.

Mirko’s fierce and independent personality drives her to push through even the most dangerous situations. Her battle against the High-End Nomus showcased her raw physical strength and combat prowess, as she fought through grievous injuries to protect her fellow heroes. Mirko’s unwavering determination and powerful Rabbit Quirk make her one of the strongest Female Characters in My Hero Academia.

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12. Best Jeanist:

© Kohei Horikoshi / Shueisha, My Hero Academia Project, TOHO Animation

Quirk: Fiber Master

Notable Feats: Best Jeanist's Fiber Master Quirk allows him to control fabric and threads, which he uses to immobilize and restrain enemies. His mastery over his Quirk makes him one of the most effective Pro Heroes, as he can subdue even the strongest villains with ease. His leadership and strategic mind have also made him a key figure in the hero society, especially during the Paranormal Liberation War.

Best Jeanist’s control over fibers allows him to manipulate clothing and even the environment to his advantage. His tactical mind and leadership skills make him a respected hero among his peers. Best Jeanist’s ability to restrain powerful villains like Gigantomachia and his role in the Paranormal Liberation War demonstrate his strength and importance to the hero society. Despite his injuries, Best Jeanist continues to play a crucial role in protecting society.

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11. Dabi:

© Kohei Horikoshi / Shueisha, My Hero Academia Project, TOHO Animation

Quirk: Blueflame

Notable Feats: Dabi's Blueflame Quirk burns hotter than Endeavor's Hellflame, making it one of the most dangerous fire-based Quirks in the series. His flames can cause massive destruction, and his disregard for his own body makes him a reckless yet formidable opponent. Dabi's reveal as Toya Todoroki, Endeavor's long-lost son, added a new layer to his character and gave him a personal vendetta against the hero society.

Dabi's flames are not only powerful but also symbolic of his internal rage against his father and society. His willingness to burn everything to the ground reflects his nihilistic worldview. Dabi's attacks on the hero society during the Paranormal Liberation War exposed deep cracks in the system, turning public opinion against the heroes. His combination of raw power and emotional depth makes him one of the Strongest characters in my hero academia.

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10. Overhaul (Kai Chisaki):

© Kohei Horikoshi / Shueisha, My Hero Academia Project, TOHO Animation

Quirk: Overhaul

Notable Feats: Overhaul's Quirk allows him to disassemble and reassemble anything he touches, making him one of the most dangerous villains in the series. He can heal injuries, reshape the environment, and even combine with other people to increase his power. His battle with Deku during the Shie Hassaikai arc was one of the most intense in the series, showcasing his immense strength and tactical mind.

Overhaul’s obsession with restoring order to society drives him to commit heinous acts in the name of his twisted ideology. His ability to disassemble and reassemble objects and people makes him nearly invincible in combat, as he can heal himself and alter the battlefield to his advantage. Overhaul’s ruthless nature and strategic mind make him one of the most formidable villains in My Hero Academia. His defeat at the hands of Deku marked a significant turning point in the series

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9. Mirio Togata (Lemillion):

© Kohei Horikoshi / Shueisha, My Hero Academia Project, TOHO Animation

Quirk: Permeation

Notable Feats: Even after losing his Quirk, Mirio proved his incredible strength by continuing to fight villains and protect Eri during the Shie Hassaikai arc. Before losing his Quirk, he was considered the closest candidate to becoming the next Symbol of Peace due to his mastery of Permeation. His invulnerability in combat made him nearly unstoppable, as he could phase through attacks and objects with ease.

Mirio’s heroism goes beyond his Quirk, exemplified by his willingness to protect others at all costs. His exceptional combat skills and keen intellect, combined with his mastery of Permeation, made him a top contender for the Number One Hero spot. Even without his Quirk, Mirio remains a beacon of hope and strength, embodying the spirit of a true hero. His return to hero duty, with the help of Eri's powers, reinstates him as one of the most powerful characters.

Mirio Again Regained his Power with the Help of Eri using Her Quirk. Mirio came back into action against All for One and League of Villains

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8. Hawks:

© Kohei Horikoshi / Shueisha, My Hero Academia Project, TOHO Animation

Quirk: Fierce Wings

Notable Feats: Hawks' speed and precision with his feathers make him a deadly opponent both in combat and reconnaissance. His ability to control each feather independently allows him to perform multiple tasks simultaneously, from rescuing civilians to attacking enemies. Hawks' intelligence and strategic mind also make him one of the most capable heroes, as shown when he infiltrated the League of Villains to gather information.

As the youngest hero to ever reach the top of the hero rankings, Hawks has proven himself time and time again. His ability to fly at incredible speeds, combined with his keen intelligence, makes him a key player in the Pro Hero world. His battle against Twice during the Paranormal Liberation War demonstrated his ruthless efficiency, as he had to make difficult decisions to protect society. Despite his youthful appearance, Hawks is one of the most powerful and Strongest characters in my hero academia.

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7. Gigantomachia:

© Kohei Horikoshi / Shueisha, My Hero Academia Project, TOHO Animation

Quirk: Multiple Quirks (including immense strength, stamina, and durability)

Notable Feats: Gigantomachia's loyalty to All For One and Shigaraki makes him a dangerous asset to the League of Villains. His immense size and strength allow him to plow through buildings and armies of heroes with ease. His multiple Quirks enhance his already impressive physical capabilities, making him nearly indestructible. Gigantomachia's rampage during the Paranormal Liberation War resulted in widespread destruction, showcasing his devastating power.

Gigantomachia serves as a near-unstoppable force of nature, capable of leveling entire cities in his quest to follow Shigaraki's orders. His endurance and strength, combined with his indomitable loyalty, make him one of the most dangerous villains in the series. His physical prowess is unmatched, as he has taken on multiple heroes simultaneously without breaking a sweat. Gigantomachia’s role in the Paranormal Liberation War further solidifies him as one of the most powerful characters.

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6. Endeavor:

© Kohei Horikoshi / Shueisha, My Hero Academia Project, TOHO Animation

Quirk: Hellflame

Notable Feats: After years of living in All Might's shadow, Endeavor finally stepped up as the Number One Hero after All Might's retirement. His battle against the High-End Nomu demonstrated his incredible power and determination. Despite nearly losing his life, he pushed through to defeat the Nomu with a spectacular display of flames. Endeavor’s ability to control his Hellflame Quirk makes him one of the most formidable heroes in the series.

Endeavor’s rise to the Number One Hero position comes with both personal and professional challenges. He seeks redemption for his abusive past while trying to live up to the expectations set by All Might. His commitment to protecting society was put on full display when he defeated the High-End Nomu in a fight that left him gravely injured. Despite his flaws, Endeavor’s strength and resilience make him a vital protector of society.

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Related: Sad Moments in My Hero Academia That Broke Our Hearts

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5. Cathleen Bate (Star and Stripe):

© Kohei Horikoshi / Shueisha, My Hero Academia Project, TOHO Animation

Quirk: New Order

Notable Feats: Cathleen Bate, also known as Star and Stripe, is the number one Pro Hero in the United States and one of the strongest heroes in the world. Her Quirk, New Order, allows her to set two rules upon touching a target, altering the properties of anything she chooses. This makes her Quirk incredibly versatile and powerful, enabling her to manipulate the environment, enhance her own abilities, and even weaken her opponents.

Star and Stripe's strength was on full display during her battle with Shigaraki Tomura. Despite facing the overwhelming power of All For One, Cathleen was able to stand her ground and challenge Shigaraki with her immense physical strength and strategic mind. Her Quirk allowed her to create powerful attacks, such as creating air constructs to strike at Shigaraki with overwhelming force. Her ultimate sacrifice in the fight against Shigaraki demonstrated her unyielding resolve to protect the world, as she used her New Order Quirk to severely weaken him, ensuring that he could not gain her abilities.

Cathleen Bate’s heroism, power, and determination make her a formidable character, whose influence extends far beyond the borders of the United States. She stands as a symbol of what it means to be a true hero.

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4 . All For One:

© Kohei Horikoshi / Shueisha, My Hero Academia Project, TOHO Animation

Quirk: All For One

Notable Feats: All For One is known for stealing the Quirks of countless people, making him one of the most dangerous villains in history. His ability to combine and use multiple Quirks at once gives him unparalleled versatility and power. He created the League of Villains and controlled events from the shadows for decades. Even after being defeated by All Might, his presence continues to threaten the hero society through Shigaraki Tomura.

All For One’s immense strength lies not only in his power to steal Quirks but in his cunning intellect. His mastery over the League of Villains, manipulation of Shigaraki Tomura, and deep ties to the origin of One For All make him a critical villain. His resilience was shown when he fought All Might with multiple Quirks simultaneously, and despite losing, he remains a major threat as he plots his comeback from Tartarus prison.

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3. Izuku Midoriya (Deku):

© Kohei Horikoshi / Shueisha, My Hero Academia Project, TOHO Animation

Quirk: One For All

Notable Feats: After inheriting One For All from All Might, Midoriya has slowly learned to harness its immense power. His fight with Overhaul was a turning point in the series, where he temporarily unlocked 100% of One For All, showcasing its true potential. As Midoriya unlocks the additional Quirks within One For All, including Blackwhip and Danger Sense, his power continues to grow exponentially.

Deku’s journey has been one of rapid growth, learning to control the immense power of One For All while also unlocking the latent Quirks of past users. His relentless drive to become the greatest hero has pushed him to improve continuously. Midoriya's tactical mind, combined with the increasing control over his multiple Quirks, positions him as one of the strongest young heroes. His battles against villains like Muscular, Overhaul, and Shigaraki prove that he is destined to become the new Symbol of Peace.

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2. All Might:

© Kohei Horikoshi / Shueisha, My Hero Academia Project, TOHO Animation

Quirk: One For All

Notable Feats: All Might's legacy is indelible, having defeated many of the strongest villains during his prime, including All For One in their first major clash. His battle against Nomu at the U.S.J. was a significant reminder of his immense power, as he delivered over 300 punches in under a minute. Despite losing his Quirk, All Might’s spirit continues to inspire future generations of heroes.

All Might is regarded as the Symbol of Peace, having served as the pillar that held society together. His power, derived from One For All, is the result of accumulated strength passed down through multiple generations. He remains the most iconic and beloved hero, setting the standard for what it means to be a hero. His final battle against All For One in Kamino marked the end of his hero career, but his influence persists in mentoring Izuku Midoriya.

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1. Shigaraki Tomura (All for One):

© Kohei Horikoshi / Shueisha, My Hero Academia Project, TOHO Animation

Quirk: Decay, All for One

Notable Feats: Initially a reckless villain, Shigaraki Tomura undergoes a significant transformation after inheriting All For One's will and power. His Quirk, Decay, evolved to the point where it could destroy entire cities with a single touch. His enhancement through Dr. Garaki’s surgery pushed his powers to new heights, making him a near-invincible force capable of overwhelming even the top heroes.

Shigaraki’s growth from a petty villain to a global threat is one of the central arcs of the series. His newly acquired strength allowed him to take on some of the strongest heroes during the Paranormal Liberation War, including Endeavor and the top Pro Heroes. With his destructive abilities combined with the multiple Quirks granted by All For One, Shigaraki has become the primary antagonist, threatening to topple the hero society itself.

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Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ):

1. How does All Might maintain his muscle form despite his injury?

All Might’s muscular form is a direct result of flexing his body to maintain the image of the Symbol of Peace. After his battle with All For One, he sustained critical injuries that left him incapable of holding that form for extended periods. When he does shift into his muscular form, it’s through sheer willpower and muscle memory, but he quickly returns to his frail state due to the damage his body has endured.

2. Why do so many characters in My Hero Academia have unique and often eccentric hero costumes?

In the world of My Hero Academia, costumes are custom-made to complement the heroes' Quirks. Hero costumes are designed with specific features to help amplify the hero's abilities or provide essential support in combat. For example, Katsuki Bakugo's grenade gauntlets store his sweat to create larger explosions, while Mei Hatsume, the tech prodigy, creates gadgets tailored to enhance a hero's effectiveness.

3. Why does Aizawa always seem sleep-deprived?

Shota Aizawa (Eraser Head) often appears sleep-deprived because of his demanding role as a teacher and a pro hero. He works tirelessly behind the scenes to protect his students and keep them safe from villain attacks, leading to frequent late-night patrols and minimal sleep. His logical and calm demeanor hides his exhaustion, making him one of the most dedicated yet weary teachers at U.A. High School.

4. How does Tokoyami’s Dark Shadow behave differently in light and dark environments?

Tokoyami’s Quirk, Dark Shadow, is a sentient shadow creature that becomes stronger and more aggressive in darkness but weaker and more controllable in the light. In dark environments, Dark Shadow’s power increases significantly, often making it harder for Tokoyami to control. Conversely, in well-lit areas, Dark Shadow’s strength diminishes, making it more docile and easier for Tokoyami to manage during battles.

5. What is the meaning behind Deku’s hero name?

Midoriya initially disliked the name “Deku” because it was a derogatory nickname used by Katsuki Bakugo to mock him for being powerless. However, Ochaco Uraraka inspired Midoriya to embrace the name, interpreting “Deku” as a term of encouragement, meaning "you can do it." From then on, Midoriya adopts the name "Deku" as his hero persona, symbolizing his determination to become a great hero despite the odds.