Naruto: The Next Hokage After Shikamaru, Explained

As a long-time fan of Naruto and now Boruto, I have to say that the journey of these series has been nothing short of remarkable. From the humble beginnings of a young boy dreaming of becoming Hokage, to the current state where we’re wondering when Sarada Uchiha will finally get her chance to lead Konoha, it’s been an exciting ride.

This article contains spoilers from Boruto: Two Blue Vortex.

Key Takeaways

Naruto was sealed away by Kawaki, leading Shikamaru Nara to be temporarily chosen as Hokage.
It’s hinted that Naruto Uzumaki will likely return as the official Seventh Hokage.
Sarada Uchiha’s dream of becoming Hokage will likely come true after Konohamaru takes the position.

In the Naruto series, being the Hokage is considered the most esteemed role within the Hidden Leaf Village, a position that embodies leadership and responsibility for the village’s entire population. Essentially, the Hokage serves as the village’s head, ensuring the welfare of all its inhabitants. In many aspects, the Hokage acts as a nurturing parent figure to the villagers, viewing the village as an extended family.

Absolutely, among all the Hokages viewers have encountered in the series, none can compare to the Seventh Hokage, Naruto Uzumaki. Yet, during his sealing, another had to step into this role, and that individual was Shikamaru Nara. Nonetheless, it’s only a matter of time before Shikamaru relinquishes the position as Hokage, and soon, someone else will be taking his place.

How Shikamaru Became The Hokage In Boruto

Naruto Was Sealed Away By Kawaki
Shikamaru Nara Was Chosen As Naruto’s Replacement

In the thrilling world of Boruto, I found myself stepping into the role of Hokage in an unexpected twist. Most fans know that Naruto Uzumaki ascended to the position of 7th Hokage a few years after Kakashi took the mantle as the 6th. Kakashi’s rule was indeed impressive, bringing the Five Nations closer than ever before while maintaining global peace. Of course, there were minor conflicts with rogue ninjas and threats lurking in the Naruto universe, but overall, the only major menace during Kakashi’s reign was Toneri Otsutsuki, a threat that Naruto Uzumaki successfully countered. With time, Kakashi eventually passed on the position, and to everyone’s surprise, it was none other than Naruto Uzumaki who took his place as Hokage.

I will send you to the same place I sent the Seventh Hokage, Boruto! – Kawaki

It’s clear that Naruto, as Hokage, held immense power. It’s also evident that his leadership brought stability to the world, maintaining peace over vast territories. However, this tranquility was disrupted when the Otsutsuki invaded and Kara members began their actions simultaneously.

Despite facing numerous challenges, Naruto excelled in his role as Hokage, safeguarding his village and even saving the world. However, after losing Kurama’s power during his fight with Isshiki, his tenure as Hokage was nearing its end. To shield Naruto from the Otsutsuki, who were now a threat without Kurama’s protection, Kawaki, Naruto’s adoptive son, took matters into his own hands. He sealed Naruto away for safety. In Kawaki’s view, this was necessary to keep Naruto safe from the Otsutsuki. His ultimate goal was to eliminate all Otsutsuki, including Naruto’s son, Boruto Uzumaki, to ensure their security. By removing Naruto from the equation, Boruto ended up appearing as a villain by taking his life, a tragic turn of events.

After Naruto Uzumaki was sealed away, the Boruto series advanced by three years, leading to an inevitable selection of a new Hokage since, in the village’s eyes, Naruto had essentially passed away. However, it was crucial for the village not to remain leaderless for such a long period. Consequently, Shikamaru was chosen as the next Hokage during this timeframe.

The Next Hokage After Shikamaru Is Likely Going To Be Naruto Again

It Is Too Early for Sarada To Be The Hokage Of Konoha

Naruto: The Next Hokage After Shikamaru, Explained

As a die-hard Naruto fan, I find myself in a unique position, given that Shikamaru Nara, my favorite character, holds the interim title of 8th Hokage. However, it’s essential to clarify that this isn’t his permanent role; he’s merely filling in for now. The series makes it clear that Shikamaru is still the provisional Hokage, which means a new Hokage will eventually emerge. Fans like me are eagerly waiting for this change, because as much as we adore Shikamaru, we know he won’t be the permanent 8th Hokage. The title of the 8th Hokage belongs to another character, or someone else will take up the mantle, just like how Hiruzen Sarutobi became Hokage following the death of the Fourth Hokage, Minato Namikaze.

Among the potential contenders for the role of the next Hokage, Sakura Haruno stands out as a strong candidate, much like Tsunade before her. She possesses the ability to lead the village with strength and determination, similar to a previous Hokage. However, there are other shinobi who could also lay claim to this title. For one, Konohamaru is a promising candidate; however, some question his physical prowess. Unfortunately, his performances in the Boruto series have not been compelling enough for fans, leaving them uncertain about whether he has the necessary skills to become the next Hokage.

Simultaneously, it’s common knowledge among fans that Sarada Uchiha aspires to be the future Hokage. This implies she is a potential candidate. However, due to her youth, it’s not feasible for the village to make her the Hokage at this moment.

It’s most likely that Naruto Uzumaki, our beloved ninja, will make a comeback in the Boruto series and assume the role of the Seventh Hokage. Given Shikamaru’s current status as acting Hokage, this implies that Naruto may return before Shikamaru either retires or passes away, since it’s understood that Shikamaru won’t keep the position permanently.

In the coming events, Konoha will face destruction, leading to a fierce battle between Kawaki and Boruto. If Kawaki loses this battle, Naruto is expected to return, revealing or possibly ending the concept of Omnipotence. Assuming that happens, Naruto should keep his title as 7th Hokage and potentially acquire new abilities to uphold it effectively. This suggests that an 8th Hokage might not appear in the Boruto series for some time.

When Will Sarada Become The Hokage?

Sarada Needs To Gain More Experience

To assume the role of Hokage, Sarada needs significant growth. Presently, she’s quite young and her powers aren’t fully developed yet. Moreover, experience is crucial for becoming Hokage, which Sarada currently lacks. For example, Naruto, despite saving the world on two occasions – first from Pain and then from Kaguya, was not appointed as Hokage due to his lack of experience. Similarly, Sarada needs more years under her belt, perhaps around her twenties, before she can officially succeed her predecessor in this position.

But, before Sarada takes this position, fans know that Konohamaru will become the Hokage of the village at one point. It is his dream, and it is highly unlikely that the author of the story will completely give up on this character and his goals. After Konohamaru, the title will eventually go to none other than Sarada at some point later down the line.

Boruto: Two Blue Vortex Chapter 16 Release Date

You can access Boruto manga officially and without charge through the Shonen Jump and Manga Plus apps, provided by Viz Media. Fans are encouraged to do so. The next chapter of Boruto, titled “Boruto: Two Blue Vortex” chapter 16, is scheduled for release on November 20, 2024.

2024-11-21 07:35