My Hero Academia Proves Why it’s the Best Modern Superhero Story By Recreating Marvel’s Most Iconic Moment

Warning: Contains spoilers for chapter #421 from My Hero AcademiaKohei Horikoshi continues to demonstrate his love for popular Western comics, particularly Marvel, in his manga, My Hero Academia. Although Horikoshi may not explicitly state his love for Marvel or other Western comics-inspired media, it’s evident through various instances where iconic moments from Western comic series are recreated in his work. Given My Hero Academia is a series featuring the concept of superheroes, the culmination of the Marvel Cinematic Universe also makes its way into Horikoshi’s manga.

In chapters #420 and #421 of My Hero Academia, titled “From Aizawa” and “We Are Here” respectively, a subtle homage to Marvel’s Avengers: Endgame unfolds. When all seems lost for protagonist Izuku Midoriya, Class 1-A enters through portals created by Kurogiri, reigniting Deku’s hope as he realizes he’s not alone.

The scene serves as a perfect embodiment of the central theme of My Hero Academia, emphasizing that no one should face adversity alone. By referencing Marvel’s iconic moment in the final arc of the series, Kohei Horikoshi effectively bridges fans from both universes, fostering a sense of unity and collective enjoyment.

My Hero Academia’s Avengers: Endgame Homage Is More Than Just A Reference

My Hero Academia nods to the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s culmination in many ways.

Chapter #421 of My Hero Academia kicks off with Class 1-A students entering the battlefield just as Deku teeters on the brink of defeat. The chapter features a striking double spread depicting numerous portals opening, allowing heroes capable of fighting to join the fray. This scene draws clear inspiration from Avengers: Endgame, where hope appears lost against Thanos and his army, only for portals to open across the battlefield, ushering in a multitude of heroes to turn the tide.

The creation of this scene in both My Hero Academia and Avengers: Endgame serves as a powerful narrative tool, conveying a universal message of unity and support. It’s quite intriguing that both sequences were crafted close to a decade after their respective media began their run. While it could be coincidental, the similarities are difficult to ignore, inviting comparisons between the two iconic moments. Moving forward, it’s evident that the heroes of My Hero Academia will likely achieve victory against evil through their unity and collective strength, mirroring the triumphant outcome of the Avengers in Endgame.

Kohei Horikoshi’s Previous Inspiration from Marvel Comics

My Hero Academia has other moments inspired by Marvel Comics, like giving All Might An Iron-man-like suit

Horikoshi has sprinkled references to Marvel Comics throughout his work, seizing every opportunity. Apart from the unmistakable homage to the iconic scene in Avengers: Endgame, there are numerous instances where he pays tribute. One notable example is seen in giving All Might a suit reminiscent of Iron Man’s armor. This suit closely mirrors Tony Stark’s creation, enabling All Might to not only fly but also augment his punching power through its mechanical enhancements.

Many other times Marvel inspired My Hero Academia. For instance, Twice and Tsuyu Asui bear resemblances to Deadpool and Spider-Man, respectively. While Twice’s personality and his suit are akin to Deadpool, Asui copies Spider-man’s iconic sitting pose. Moreover, Deku’s abilities, such as Blackwhip and Danger Sense, draw inspiration from Spider-Man’s Web Launchers and Spider Sense. These nods to Marvel Comics contribute to the rich tapestry of My Hero Academia‘s universe, solidifying its status as one of the premier superhero series in both anime and manga.

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