The worlds of Jujutsu Kaisen and Hunter x Hunter are iconic in their own right, each celebrated for their intricate power systems, heart-stopping battles, and unforgettable characters. Yet, for observant fans, the threads connecting these two universes run deeper than mere genre similarities. Jujutsu Kaisen creator Gege Akutami has openly acknowledged the profound influence of Yoshihiro Togashi, the genius behind Hunter x Hunter and Yu Yu Hakusho, on their own groundbreaking work. This isn't just about subtle nods; it's about fundamental inspirations that shape character designs, narrative turns, and even the raw emotional beats that define Jujutsu Kaisen.
At the heart of this discussion, and often sparking intense fan debate, is the terrifying King of Curses himself: Sukuna. While Sukuna doesn't physically appear in Hunter x Hunter, the manner in which he operates, the pivotal moments he creates, and even theories surrounding his future strategies, all bear striking resemblances to Togashi's masterful storytelling. Understanding these connections offers a richer appreciation for both series, revealing how creative genius can inspire and evolve across different narratives.
The Mastermind's Homage: Gege Akutami's Togashi Inspiration
Gege Akutami doesn't just admire Togashi; they actively draw from his legacy, embedding it into the very DNA of Jujutsu Kaisen. This admiration isn't limited to superficial aesthetics but extends to core elements like the sophisticated power systems, the dynamic choreography of fight scenes, and the nuanced development of its cast. It's a testament to Togashi's influence that entire aspects of JJK feel like a natural evolution of concepts first explored in his works. If you're eager to fully appreciate these foundational links, you'll want to dive into .
Even specific character designs hint at this deep well of inspiration. Fans have long pointed out the undeniable parallels between Jujutsu Kaisen's Suguru Geto and Yu Yu Hakusho's Shinobu Sensui. Both characters wrestle with complex ideologies, leading them down paths of profound conflict and ultimately, tragedy. The way their moral ambiguities are explored, their charisma, and their ultimate roles as formidable antagonists, all echo Togashi's masterful approach to character depth. For a closer look at this fascinating comparison, be sure to check out .
Echoes in Iconic Moments: Specific Scene Recreations
Beyond general influences, Akutami has directly cited specific, pivotal Hunter x Hunter scenes as the wellspring for some of Jujutsu Kaisen's most shocking and memorable moments. Perhaps none is more impactful than Sukuna's horrifying takeover of Megumi Fushiguro's body in Chapter 212. This brutal, unexpected twist sent shockwaves through the fandom, forever altering the course of the story. Akutami confirmed that this very scene was directly inspired by an iconic moment from Hunter x Hunter. For all the details on this specific, game-changing HxH parallel, consider .
The emotional fallout of such an event is equally crucial, and here too, Togashi's genius provided a blueprint. Yuji Itadori's visceral anguish and despair at losing his friend to Sukuna were deliberately drawn to mirror Killua Zoldyck's heart-wrenching expression in Hunter x Hunter Chapter 333. In that unforgettable panel, Killua cradles Gon's withered hand in a hospital, his face a perfect picture of sorrow and helplessness. This direct visual reference powerfully amplifies the emotional weight of Yuji's plight, connecting readers to a universal feeling of loss. You can find a complete breakdown of this emotional mirroring by .
Verbal Pointers and Narrative Tributes
The reverence for Hunter x Hunter even permeates the dialogue within Jujutsu Kaisen. One of the most famous examples comes from Aoi Todo in Chapter 132, where he famously declares, "Arms are just decorations, applause is the acclamation of the soul." This powerful, philosophical statement is not original to Todo but is a direct quote from Isaac Netero, spoken to Meruem in Hunter x Hunter Chapter 297. It's a subtle yet profound tribute, showcasing Akutami's appreciation for Togashi's ability to craft impactful, memorable lines. For a deeper analysis of this particular reference and its significance, we recommend .
Beyond individual quotes, the very fabric of Jujutsu Kaisen's storytelling can bear Togashi's imprint. Akutami has also revealed that the intense, multi-layered narrative style employed during the Shibuya Incident Arc was inspired by Hunter x Hunter. This includes the detailed explanations of abilities, the intricate tactical maneuvers, and the relentless pacing that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The way information is conveyed, the build-up of tension, and the sudden, brutal shifts in power dynamics all feel distinctly Togashi-esque. To understand how this influence shaped one of JJK's most beloved arcs, take a moment to read about .
The Predator's New Playbook: Sukuna's Hisoka-Inspired Strategy Theory
Perhaps one of the most compelling fan theories regarding Sukuna's future trajectory draws direct inspiration from Hunter x Hunter's enigmatic jester, Hisoka Morow. This theory, popularized by @TBradyRS on X (formerly Twitter), posits that Sukuna, having faced significant challenges and perhaps a newfound appreciation for his own mortality, might adopt a strategy reminiscent of Hisoka's post-resurrection tactics. Sukuna already shares certain characteristics with key Hunter x Hunter figures; his respect for powerful opponents can be likened to Meruem's, while his overwhelming strength and ego certainly parallel Hisoka's own self-assured dominance. For a comprehensive look at these fascinating character comparisons, explore .
After his near-death experience and subsequent resurrection at the hands of Chrollo Lucilfer, Hisoka fundamentally altered his approach. Instead of directly confronting Chrollo, he pragmatically targeted Chrollo's crucial allies, such as Shalnark and Kortopi, weakening his main opponent by eliminating vital support. The fan theory speculates that Sukuna, after his battles with Gojo and Yuta, may recognize the vulnerability of a direct, frontal assault against the combined forces of Jujutsu sorcerers. Instead, he might pivot to a more strategic, Hisoka-like approach, aiming to dismantle the sorcerers' support network. To understand the full implications of this intriguing possibility, be sure to investigate .
The most logical targets for such a strategy would be characters indispensable to the Jujutsu High team. Ui Ui, with his invaluable teleportation abilities, has proven crucial in evacuating powerful sorcerers like Gojo and Yuta from immediate danger. Shoko Ieiri, as the sole practitioner of Reverse Cursed Technique healing, is the linchpin of their medical support. Sukuna has demonstrably observed Ui Ui's utility on the battlefield, making him a prime candidate for elimination. Targeting these crucial supporting figures would cripple the sorcerers' ability to fight effectively and recover from injuries. To delve into the specific reasons why these two characters might be in Sukuna's crosshairs, read more about .
The Enduring Legacy: What Sukuna's HxH Connection Means
The connections between Sukuna in Jujutsu Kaisen and the world of Hunter x Hunter are far more than mere Easter eggs. They are profound testaments to the enduring power of great storytelling and the way one master can inspire another. Gege Akutami's open admiration for Yoshihiro Togashi enriches our understanding of Jujutsu Kaisen, allowing us to appreciate the layers of inspiration woven into its narrative fabric. As Sukuna continues his reign of terror and the Jujutsu Kaisen story unfolds, these parallels offer fascinating insights into potential character developments and plot twists, leaving fans eager to see which Togashi-esque surprises Akutami might have in store next.