The ending of One Punch Man is always a hot topic that keeps "weebs" at Hobiverse on the edge of their seats, torn between excitement and anxiety for the fate of "the One-Punch Man." We all hope Saitama receives the recognition he deserves, but we also fear that the series might conclude without satisfying the fans.
The Controversial Idea: Losing Power for Hair?
Recently, the online community was abuzz with news that artist Yusuke Murata once considered a "crazy" scenario. In it, to destroy the entity known as God in the final battle, Saitama would have to make an equal exchange. He would win but lose all of his invincible power, regain his black hair, and lose his memories of his heroic journey.
Although this scenario has a humanistic touch, many fans consider it a step backward. Ending One Punch Man by stripping Saitama of his heroic identity would make his character development journey meaningless. If he no longer remembers the lessons of friendship with King or the mentorship with Genos, would all his previous efforts still be valuable? Furthermore, repeating the "loss of power" trope seen in recent Shonen series could easily lead to boredom and a lack of innovation.
Saitama: When Strength Is Not a Dream
Saitama is so strong that he doesn't need to develop. And that's both the problem and his unique charm.
While other shonen series tell stories of rising to the top, One Punch Man starts at the pinnacle. Saitama doesn't seek power, doesn't dream of fame, and barely even cares about being a hero. He can defeat Boros in an earth-shattering battle, then the next day be flustered by a discounted vegetable aisle. He doesn't hunt monsters; he accidentally encounters them. This very contrast makes the ending of One Punch Man unpredictable. Does the final opponent need to be physically stronger? Or just touch the void within him?
Saitama respects the lost, the mocked heroes, because he understands the feeling of being underestimated despite being above everyone. What he lacks has never been power, but connection. One Punch Man has never taught that one must have a grand goal to become strong. An ordinary person, living simply, training enough, can also break all limits. And no one has the right to say where that limit lies.
Hypothesis for a Satisfying Life-or-Death Battle
Many readers hope that the ending of One Punch Man will bring a truly God-level opponent, making Saitama experience pain and difficulty for the first time. Imagine Saitama filled with joy as he struggles in a life-or-death battle, where every punch he throws makes him feel "alive." That would be true salvation for a soul too weary from absolute dominance.
Moreover, whether Saitama becomes an S-class hero or not is probably no longer that important. Recognition may be limited to a small group of people who truly understand him. A hidden warrior, freely going grocery shopping for discounts after saving the universe, is the image that truly reflects the unique character of this series.
In conclusion, no matter which direction the ending of One Punch Man takes, the core remains Saitama's spirit of overcoming limits and maintaining his identity. And perhaps, the most beautiful ending is when Saitama continues to live as an ordinary man, the strongest in the world but needing no one's recognition. A quiet ending, true to its satirical spirit, and enough to conclude One Punch Man's unique journey.
See more:
- One-Punch Man Season 3 Criticized, What Did Fans Do For Fun?
- Why Isn't Saitama an S-Class Hero in One Punch Man?
