Boruto: Naruto Next Generations has expanded upon the rich legacy of Naruto, introducing new heroes, formidable enemies, and unexpected twists. While Boruto Uzumaki has carved out his own path, the looming presence of powerful adversaries has kept fans speculating about the ultimate threat that will define his journey. The stakes are higher than ever, and with the growing influence of the Otsutsuki clan, the possibility of an unparalleled villain emerging seems inevitable.
Throughout the series, antagonists like Momoshiki and Isshiki Otsutsuki have tested Boruto and his allies, pushing them to their limits. However, a new theory suggests that the final villain may not be a distant, otherworldly entity but someone much closer to Boruto—someone whose transformation could shake the foundation of the entire ninja world. As the series continues to evolve, the idea of a personal betrayal leading to the greatest conflict has gained traction.
Lets look into a compelling theory that suggests Kawaki, Boruto’s closest companion and rival, may ultimately become the final antagonist. With his deep ties to the Otsutsuki clan and his ongoing struggle with the Karma seal, Kawaki’s fate may take a dark turn—one that could force Boruto to make an impossible choice.
The Return of the Otsutsuki Clan
One of the most powerful and mysterious groups in the Boruto universe is the Otsutsuki clan. These beings are essentially the most formidable extraterrestrial threats to Earth, with immense power that surpasses many of the series’ most well-known villains. While many have been defeated, including Kaguya Otsutsuki, the Otsutsuki’s influence is far from over.
The introduction of Isshiki Otsutsuki, who plays a central role in the plot during the later arcs, raised the stakes significantly. Isshiki’s arrival on Earth brought about a major conflict between the Otsutsuki clan and the Hidden Leaf Village. He is a reminder that the threat of the Otsutsuki clan is always looming, and their sinister plans are likely far from complete.
Could the final villain of Boruto also be an Otsutsuki? While it’s not certain, the vast lore of this clan points to the fact that they may still be pulling the strings from behind the scenes.
The Potential Final Villain: Kawaki
Kawaki, Boruto’s adopted brother, has been a crucial part of the story since his introduction. Initially appearing as an enemy, Kawaki’s character has grown over time, with his bond to Boruto becoming an essential part of the narrative. However, his connection to the Otsutsuki clan could spell trouble for both Boruto and the entire ninja world.
Kawaki’s potential to become a villain is a theory that has been gaining traction among fans. His involvement with Isshiki Otsutsuki, along with his unique abilities granted by the Karma seal, makes him a character to watch closely. As the story progresses, Kawaki’s connection to the Otsutsuki could evolve in ways that might eventually turn him into a major antagonist. Some speculate that his struggle between good and evil may lead to his eventual downfall, or that he could be manipulated by a stronger, darker force.
Kawaki’s internal conflict, along with his mysterious backstory, makes him an interesting candidate for the final villain. It is possible that his journey will take a tragic turn, with him either embracing the dark side or being pushed into a situation where he must become a foe to Boruto and the Hidden Leaf Village.
The Power of the Karma Seal
One of the most significant factors in the theory of Kawaki becoming the final villain is the Karma seal. This mark is a unique power that is granted by the Otsutsuki clan and has enormous potential. Both Boruto and Kawaki possess Karma, and while Boruto’s mark is more dormant, Kawaki’s is active and has granted him tremendous power.
The Karma seal not only serves as a physical representation of the Otsutsuki’s influence but also provides its bearer with extraordinary abilities. Kawaki’s Karma seal, specifically, has been shown to be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it provides him with immense power, but on the other, it could also lead to his eventual downfall. The more the Karma seal grows, the more it might influence his thoughts, actions, and potentially turn him into a vessel for the Otsutsuki clan’s plans.
If Kawaki were to become completely controlled by the Karma seal or its influence, he could be transformed into an even more dangerous version of himself, possibly becoming the ultimate villain who must face Boruto.
The Influence of the Otsutsuki Clan’s Grand Scheme
The Otsutsuki clan’s true motives remain a mystery, but the pieces of their grand plan are beginning to unfold. It’s clear that their ultimate goal isn’t just to conquer the Earth or gain more power—it’s something far more insidious.
As the story progresses, there are hints that the Otsutsuki clan might be working toward creating a new world order, where they can control all chakra and have the ultimate power over the universe. This larger vision could very well be tied to the actions of characters like Kawaki, who is a direct vessel for their plans. The grand scheme of the Otsutsuki clan could eventually pit the remaining characters of the story against the very forces they’ve been trying to defeat throughout the entire series.
It is entirely possible that the Otsutsuki clan’s true villain has not yet been revealed, and the final confrontation will involve an even more powerful force manipulating events from the shadows.
What This Means for Boruto’s Future
As the story of Boruto continues to unfold, fans are eager to know what lies ahead for their favorite characters. The theory of Kawaki becoming the final villain fits into the larger narrative, especially when considering the ongoing influence of the Otsutsuki clan. If this theory proves correct, Boruto may have to face the painful reality of fighting his closest friend, Kawaki, who has become a formidable enemy.
This potential conflict could serve as a powerful narrative arc for the series, exploring themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the consequences of power. If Kawaki does become the final villain, it would serve as a devastating emotional climax to the series, as Boruto would be forced to confront the very person who has been by his side for so long.
A New Age of Villains
Regardless of how Boruto’s journey unfolds, the possibility of Kawaki becoming the final villain adds an emotional depth to the story that few other outcomes could achieve. If this theory proves true, it would not only create a thrilling showdown but also reinforce the series’ recurring themes of destiny, sacrifice, and the battle against fate. A confrontation between Boruto and Kawaki would be a heartbreaking yet fitting conclusion to their intertwined fates.
Even if Kawaki doesn’t take on the mantle of the ultimate antagonist, the presence of the Otsutsuki clan ensures that Boruto’s battles are far from over. The series has already laid the groundwork for an epic struggle, one that will test the bonds of friendship, loyalty, and the very essence of what it means to be a ninja. As the story moves toward its climax, fans can only wait to see whether Boruto will be able to change his fate—or if he is doomed to follow in the tragic footsteps of his predecessors.
Interestingly, the very first scene of Boruto: Naruto Next Generations foreshadowed a battle between Boruto and Kawaki, with the Hidden Leaf Village in ruins. While the meaning of that moment is still uncertain, it’s hard to ignore the possibility that the series was hinting at this tragic confrontation from the very beginning.
[Updated: 03/30/2025]
