Naruto: 6 Strong Characters Who Could Have Become The Hokage

The Hokage is the title given to the leader of Konohagakure, and is generally considered the strongest ninja in the village. Their main responsibility is to protect the village from any dangers it faces. While Konoha has seen many powerful ninjas throughout its history, only seven have ever become Hokage.

The competition to become Hokage is incredibly fierce. Despite the small number of those who’ve actually earned the title, many other skilled ninjas were equally deserving. It’s fascinating to consider why they didn’t succeed – there were a lot of factors at play, making their near-misses some of the biggest disappointments in the series. Here are a few characters who had the potential to be Hokage, but ultimately fell short.

6. Orochimaru

Member Of The Legendary Sannin

Orochimaru was an incredibly strong and intelligent ninja, considered a genius by his teacher, Hiruzen Sarutobi, who favored him above all other students. He was once a contender to become the Fourth Hokage, but was passed over because of his dangerous and unethical experiments. Driven by a desire to learn every secret in the world, he pursued his goals relentlessly, using any methods he deemed necessary. His power and intellect made him a natural leader, and a strong candidate for the Hokage position.

5. Sakumo Hatake

Konoha’s White Fang

Sakumo is arguably the most enigmatic figure in the series. Legends say his abilities surpassed even the legendary Sannin, and his fame echoed throughout the ninja world. Even after his death, the Hidden Sand Village harbored intense fear and resentment towards him. Notably, skilled shinobi like Minato held him in high regard, highlighting just how exceptional he was. Tragically, he took his own life after saving his teammates, unable to bear the criticism he received – a final act embodying the spirit of self-sacrifice and dedication to others.

4. Itachi Uchiha

Legend Of The Sharingan

Itachi is widely considered one of the most popular and powerful characters in the series. A true prodigy, he possessed the skills and intelligence of a seasoned leader, even at a young age. He achieved remarkable feats, like graduating at just six years old and becoming an Anbu captain by twelve. Many believe he was a once-in-a-century talent, and someone who easily could have become Hokage.

3. Shisui Uchiha

Shisui of the Body Flicker

Shisui Uchiha was widely considered the most powerful Uchiha of his generation. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a Jonin and leading his own team within just four years. Itachi greatly admired Shisui, viewing him as an older brother and mentor. Shisui was a formidable shinobi, famous for his incredibly strong genjutsu skills. Even Danzo, who distrusted the Uchiha clan, recognized Shisui’s power. His untimely death was a great loss, and many believed he hadn’t reached his full potential.

2. Jiraiya

Toad Sage

Jiraiya was Naruto’s mentor and a highly respected ninja, known as one of the Legendary Sannin. He was an incredibly strong fighter who faced many dangerous battles and survived almost anything. Everyone in the ninja world, even groups like Akatsuki, knew about his skills. He was a brilliant strategist, quickly figuring out Pain’s true motives. Despite being offered the position of Hokage several times due to his impressive abilities, he always turned it down.

1. Fugaku Uchiha

Wicked Eye Fugaku

Fugaku was the father of Itachi and Sasuke and led the Uchiha clan. He was considered a strong candidate to become Hokage because of his impressive performance in the Third Great Ninja War. Known for his powerful genjutsu, he was one of the few skilled enough to challenge the Nine-Tailed Beast. He also developed his Mangekyo Sharingan and led his clan decisively, though with a firm hand. Many times, Fugaku demonstrated the qualities of a great leader, making him well-suited for the role of Hokage.

2026-05-03 06:04