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Shoto's contentment at #2 challenges endeavor's legacy

Shoto's Contentment at #2 | A Challenge to Endeavor's Legacy

By

Emma Johnson

Feb 2, 2026, 10:31 PM

Edited By

Jasmine Lee

Updated

Feb 3, 2026, 04:44 AM

2 minutes (approx.)

Shoto, a young hero with striking hair, poses confidently in a hero outfit, with a distant city skyline behind him, symbolizing his strength and independence from his father's legacy.

Shoto's status as the stable second-best hero is igniting fresh debates among fans. With another timeskip OVA on the horizon, scheduled to reveal Class 1-A's final rankings, Shoto is confirmed to hold the #2 spot post-timeskip. This has raised questions about whether he intentionally withholds fame to distinguish himself from his father, Endeavor, known for his obsession with being the best.

The Debate Heats Up

Fans remain divided. Some insist that Shoto's approach, focusing on real hero work, signifies a rejection of his father's shadow. "He never wanted to be like his dad," one comment reads. Meanwhile, others argue that Shotoโ€™s reserved nature contradicts his capabilities.

"Endeavor spent his life obsessed with the gap between #2 and #1, but Shoto seems content with his position."

Interestingly, many believe that despite his ranking, Shoto is arguably stronger than both Mirio and Bakugo, showcasing his versatile half-and-half quirk, which some assert is better suited for hero activities.

Themes in Focus

Three central themes have emerged in response to Shoto's position:

  • Intentional Detachment from Rankings: Comments highlight Shoto's aim to pursue genuine heroism over status.

  • Strength Beyond Numbers: Many fans perceive Shoto as the strongest active hero, underlying his decision not to chase rankings.

  • Avoiding Father's Legacy: There's a widespread acknowledgment that achieving #1 could mean fulfilling Endeavor's expectations, something Shoto may want to avoid.

Insightful Observations

  • "If Shoto became #1, he fulfills his father's wishes and becomes a slave to that legacy."

  • โ€œHeโ€™s focusing more on enjoying interactions with others than seeking fame.โ€

Fans express a mix of positive and neutral sentiments toward Shoto's journey, which reflects his growth while grappling with the complexities of Endeavor's influence.

Key Takeaways

  • โ–ฒ Shoto is confirmed as #2 in upcoming OVA, fueling theories on his strength.

  • โ–ผ Many fans see him as stronger than Mirio and Bakugo, highlighting his versatility.

  • โ˜… Some believe Shoto's focus on duty over rank sets him apart from Endeavor's legacy.

As Shoto continues his journey, fan engagement remains high, especially regarding new merchandise and fan art that illustrate his evolving identity. This narrative highlights that true heroism often prioritizes character growth and moral integrity over conventional accolades.