Horikoshi Reveals Izuku Midoriya’s New Pro Hero Rank in My Hero Academia

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the anime and manga community, Kohei Horikoshi, the creator of the globally celebrated series My Hero Academia, has officially confirmed the latest Pro Hero ranking for the series’ protagonist, Izuku Midoriya. This information, revealed in the new My Hero Academia Ultra Age fanbook, provides a definitive answer to a question that has long been at the forefront of fan speculation: where does Deku stand among Japan’s greatest heroes after the climactic final battle?

The My Hero Academia manga recently concluded its main narrative, but a subsequent epilogue and databook have been providing fans with new, crucial details about the characters’ futures. While the main story left some ambiguity regarding the long-term hero rankings, Horikoshi’s latest reveal has put all doubts to rest. The rankings are based on a combination of factors, including resolved cases, public opinion, and overall combat prowess. The official reveal has created a surge of interest online, with keywords like “Deku Pro Hero ranking,” “My Hero Academia final rankings,” and “Deku’s new hero name” dominating search trends and discussions across forums and social media.

Deku’s Official Placement: A Surprising and Perfect Fit

The My Hero Academia Ultra Age fanbook, which includes a bonus chapter that takes place a few years after the series’ conclusion, reveals a new and updated Hero Billboard Chart. This chart establishes the definitive rankings for the next generation of heroes. Izuku Midoriya, now a pro hero known as “Deku, the One For All Hero,” has officially been placed as the Number 4 Pro Hero in Japan. This ranking is a perfect blend of recognition for his monumental achievement in saving the world and a realistic portrayal of his journey and current circumstances.

For a character who started his journey completely Quirkless and faced years of self-doubt, reaching the top five is an extraordinary feat. It’s a testament to his relentless dedication and the sheer willpower that has defined his character from the very beginning. However, many fans were initially surprised that he didn’t secure the Number 1 spot, which is currently held by Mirio Togata, with Shoto Todoroki at Number 2 and Mt. Lady at Number 3. The data book’s revelations provide a satisfying explanation that aligns perfectly with the series’ core themes and the practical realities of the hero world. This kind of nuanced storytelling is exactly what fans have come to expect from Horikoshi, and it’s why the My Hero Academia manga sales and related merchandise continue to perform so well.

The Rationale Behind the Ranking

The decision to place Deku at Number 4, rather than at the top, is both logical and thematically powerful. The epilogue explains that after the final war, Deku lost the full power of One For All. While a new, powerful hero suit allows him to mimic many of its functions, he is not operating at the same raw power level as when he faced All For One. Furthermore, the bonus chapter reveals that in addition to his pro hero duties, Deku is also balancing his life as a history and hero history teacher at U.A. High School. This dual role, while noble and reflective of his desire to help the next generation, means he can’t dedicate all of his time to hero work in the same way as his contemporaries.

This ranking also maintains the integrity of the hero world’s ranking system, which considers popularity and a long-standing track record. Heroes like Mirio Togata have had a longer, more consistent presence in the public eye. The fact that Deku, despite a period of retirement and a significant loss of power, could still skyrocket into the top five in such a short amount of time speaks volumes about his impact on society. He may not be the Number 1 hero on the charts, but he is universally regarded as the greatest hero for saving the world. This distinction—being the “greatest hero” versus the “number one hero”—is a key thematic element that Horikoshi has explored throughout the series, and this latest reveal brings that concept to a poignant and satisfying close.

The news has also provided more context for other characters. Katsuki Bakugo, for instance, is revealed to be the Number 5 hero, showcasing the enduring rivalry and friendship between him and Deku. Bakugo had dropped to a lower rank after the war, but his renewed motivation, spurred by Deku’s return, helped him climb back into the top five. This detail, along with many others, is why the Ultra Age fanbook has become a must-buy for collectors and avid readers, driving up the market for My Hero Academia collectibles and MHA manga volumes.

The Legacy Continues

With this final piece of information, Horikoshi has provided a sense of closure to the long and arduous journey of Izuku Midoriya. His story is not just one of a boy who gained power and became a hero, but one of a boy who became the hero he was always meant to be—not because of his rank, but because of his heart. The reveal that he is now a teacher also reinforces the idea of passing on the torch and ensuring the future of hero society. While the main story may be over, the legacy of Deku, the Number 4 Pro Hero and the “Greatest Hero,” will continue to inspire for generations to come.