Shikamaru’s Surprising Rise: Is He Really the 8th Hokage?

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This article contains spoilers from the Boruto: Two Blue Vortex Series.

Summary

  • Shikamaru becomes the 8th Hokage after Naruto’s disappearance, but it’s not official.
  • Naruto is believed to be dead, but will eventually return, possibly changing the Hokage position.
  • Konohamaru is a likely candidate to become the 9th Hokage, with Sarada Uchiha a strong contender.

In the animated series “Boruto: Two Blue Vortex,” fans have been presented with numerous intriguing plot developments. One point that has left many baffled, even to this day, is the role of the Hokage within Konoha. Following the demise of the Seventh Hokage, Konoha found itself without a leader. As a result, the village ultimately selected a new individual to fill this crucial position.

Following Naruto Uzumaki, Shikamaru Nara was chosen as the eighth leader of the village, but things aren’t entirely smooth sailing. There remains some uncertainty regarding the role of the eighth Hokage, and Shikamaru himself has yet to fully embrace the position. The true identity of the eighth Hokage hasn’t been revealed in the Boruto series yet, which promises an intriguing turn of events for the future storyline of Boruto.

How Shikamaru Became The 8th Hokage

Naruto Uzumaki Was Announced Dead

For a significant period, Naruto Uzumaki held the title of the Seventh Hokage in Konoha. Yet, eventually, his adopted son, Kawaki, developed a connection towards him that would ultimately determine Naruto’s destiny. Contrary to what fans initially suspected, Kawaki was not out to kill Naruto Uzumaki; rather, he saw Naruto as someone to protect. This protective instinct wasn’t born from any wrongdoing on Naruto’s part but stemmed purely from Kawaki’s desire to ensure his safety.

I will kill all Otsutsuki, and that includes Boruto Uzumaki. — Kawaki

Everything ties back to Naruto’s battle against Isshiki Otsutsuki, where he activated Baryon Mode and ultimately lost Kurama in the process. With Kurama gone, Naruto found himself weakened and unable to withstand opponents like the Otsutsuki. Kawaki made a vow to eradicate the Otsutsuki for Naruto’s protection, leading him to imprison Naruto Uzumaki within the dimension of Daikokuten. Consequently, the world came to believe that Naruto had perished.

Following a three-year hiatus, Boruto found himself back in Konoha, a village that had been without a permanent Hokage during this time. It was later disclosed in Two Blue Vortex that Shikamaru had been selected as the next leader of the village. However, an intriguing detail emerged: Shikamaru hadn’t yet formally accepted the position as Hokage. Though he assumed the duties of the 8th Hokage, Shikamaru regarded this period as a temporary one, implying that, technically speaking, there is no Eighth Hokage of Konoha at present.

Why There Will Be A New 8th Hokage

Naruto’s Return In Imminent In The Boruto Series

Fans anticipate that Naruto Uzumaki will reappear in the Boruto series at some point. The timing of his return could significantly alter the role of Hokage within the village. If Naruto returns relatively soon, it’s likely he would continue to serve as the 7th Hokage, demonstrating his ongoing ability to lead the village effectively. However, if his return is delayed into the future, he might decide that it’s time for a new generation to take charge and pass on the mantle of Hokage to another worthy successor.

I haven’t taken this position officially, at least not yet. — Shikamaru Nara

Konohamaru Is The Likeliest Candidate

In the storyline of ‘Boruto’, it’s clear that only two characters have a chance to be the future Hokage – Konohamaru Sarutobi and Sarada Uchiha. While Sarada appears to be more powerful, Konohamaru harbors a deep desire for the position. Interestingly, he is currently serving as Shikamaru’s second-in-command, suggesting he’s being prepared for leadership. If Konohamaru manages to enhance his abilities through the Two Blue Vortex, there’s no doubt that he will become the next Hokage of Konoha. Given this, it seems likely that Sarada will eventually succeed him as the 9th Hokage of the village.

You can find Boruto chapters published by Viz Media. Fans have the opportunity to read it officially and at no cost on the Shonen Jump and Manga Plus app. Mark your calendars as the next chapter, titled “Boruto: Two Blue Vortex Chapter 21,” is scheduled for release on April 18, 2025.

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2025-03-27 00:24