The "Naruto" series, created by Masashi Kishimoto, is one of the most beloved and well-known anime and manga franchises of all time. With its complex world-building, deep lore, and unpredictable twists, fans have spent years speculating about various aspects of the story. While some theories turned out to be true, many were ultimately debunked as the series progressed. In this blog, we will explore some of the most popular "Naruto" theories that were proven false.
1. Naruto’s Parentage: Wild Speculations Before the Truth
Before it was officially revealed in the series, Naruto’s parentage was a huge mystery. Many fans speculated that he might be the son of other characters, such as Jiraiya, Kakashi, or even Sasuke from an alternate timeline. Some believed that Naruto was an experiment or a reincarnation of a powerful shinobi.
However, the truth was revealed when it was confirmed that Naruto was the son of Minato Namikaze, the Fourth Hokage, and Kushina Uzumaki. This revelation not only gave Naruto a direct connection to one of the most legendary shinobi but also explained why he was chosen as the Jinchūriki of Kurama, the Nine-Tails.
2. Tobi’s Identity: The Endless Theories
Tobi’s identity was one of the most debated topics among Naruto fans. Some theories suggested that Tobi was Madara Uchiha himself, while others speculated that he was an alternate version of Obito Uchiha from a different timeline. Other theories proposed that he could be Izuna Uchiha, Kagami Uchiha, or even a completely new character.
The revelation that Tobi was actually Obito Uchiha was a shocking twist for many fans. This twist not only debunked countless theories but also added depth to Obito’s character arc, making him one of the most tragic villains in the series.
3. The Uchiha Clan’s Fate: Theories About the Massacre
The massacre of the Uchiha clan was a tragic event in the history of Konoha, leading to endless fan theories. Some believed that Itachi was framed and that the real culprit was someone else, possibly Danzo or even Madara.
However, the truth was eventually revealed: Itachi did, in fact, carry out the massacre under the orders of Konoha’s higher-ups. The reason behind this brutal act was to prevent a coup that could have led to a civil war within the village. Despite his actions, Itachi remained a complex and sympathetic character who ultimately wanted to protect Sasuke and the village.
4. Sasuke’s Role in the Series: Would He Become the Final Villain?
Many fans theorized that Sasuke would become the final villain of "Naruto." Given his descent into darkness and his deep hatred for Konoha, it seemed plausible that he would follow a villainous path similar to that of Orochimaru or Madara Uchiha.
While Sasuke did act as an antagonist for a significant part of the series, he never became the ultimate villain. Instead, he played a crucial role in the final battle against Kaguya Otsutsuki and eventually reconciled with Naruto. By the end of the series, he had chosen a path of redemption, serving as Konoha’s shadow protector rather than its enemy.
5. The Sage of Six Paths: Mysterious Origins and Powers
Before the series fully explored the backstory of the Sage of Six Paths, fans speculated wildly about his identity and abilities. Some believed he was an ancient god-like figure who had no real connection to the current events of the series. Others theorized that he was actually a time-traveling Naruto or even an otherworldly being unrelated to humanity.
However, the series revealed that Hagoromo Otsutsuki, the Sage of Six Paths, was a real historical figure and the son of Kaguya Otsutsuki. His role in shaping the world’s shinobi system and creating ninjutsu was more grounded in history than in divine intervention. This debunked many of the supernatural theories surrounding his existence.
6. Naruto’s Dream of Becoming Hokage: A Metaphor for Something Darker?
Some fans theorized that Naruto’s goal of becoming Hokage was merely a metaphor for his desire for power or revenge against those who mistreated him in his childhood. There was speculation that Naruto might turn against the village or that he would abandon his dream once he learned the truth about Konoha’s dark history.
However, the series stayed true to Naruto’s character. His dream of becoming Hokage was never about personal gain or revenge but rather about earning the love and respect of his peers. By the end of "Naruto Shippuden," Naruto achieved his goal and became the Seventh Hokage, proving that his determination and ideals were genuine all along.
7. Madara’s Endgame: Was He the True Final Villain?
For a long time, fans believed that Madara Uchiha would be the final villain of "Naruto." His return, immense power, and plan to cast Infinite Tsukuyomi made him seem like the ultimate antagonist.
However, just when it seemed like Madara was about to achieve victory, he was betrayed by Black Zetsu and replaced by Kaguya Otsutsuki. This twist shocked fans and debunked the theory that Madara was the series’ endgame villain. Instead, Kaguya became the final threat, though her sudden introduction remains a controversial aspect of the series.
8. Sakura’s True Strength: Would She Ever Surpass Naruto and Sasuke?
Early in the series, some fans believed that Sakura would eventually reach a power level comparable to Naruto and Sasuke. Some theories suggested that she might awaken a special Kekkei Genkai or even gain a Tailed Beast of her own.
While Sakura did become significantly stronger, mastering medical ninjutsu and surpassing Tsunade in many ways, she never reached the same level as Naruto and Sasuke. By the end of the series, the power gap between her and the two main male protagonists was still quite large, debunking the theory that she would rival them in strength.
Conclusion
"Naruto" has been a series filled with unexpected twists and turns, leading to an abundance of fan theories—some of which turned out to be true, while others were completely off the mark. Whether it was Tobi’s identity, the fate of the Uchiha clan, or Naruto’s ultimate dream, these debunked theories highlight just how unpredictable the series was.
Despite these false theories, the discussions and speculations contributed to the excitement and enjoyment of the Naruto fandom. With the continuation of the story in "Boruto," fans continue to theorize about what’s next for the shinobi world. Will any new theories be proven wrong? Only time will tell!
What were your favorite Naruto theories that turned out to be false? Let us know in the comments!