My Hero Academia fans have been waiting for this moment for years, and episode 3 of the final season delivers like no other. Bakugo’s return in this episode is nothing short of triumphant, cementing his role as a hero and showcasing the growth he’s gone through from a hot-headed bully to a true warrior. If there’s one word to describe this episode, it would be victorious.
The Evolution of Bakugo: From Arrogance to Redemption
For those who have followed My Hero Academia from the beginning, Bakugo has always been a polarizing character. His arrogance and explosive attitude towards Izuku Midoriya often put him at odds with viewers. However, over the course of the series, we’ve seen layers to Bakugo’s personality that show he’s more than just a loud, angry kid.
Episode 3 highlights just how far he’s come. Fighting in the face of immense pain, Bakugo proves just how much he’s willing to sacrifice for his friends and allies. This is no longer the self-centered teen we once knew. Now, he’s a hero in his own right, and his actions speak louder than ever before.
His moment of glory comes when he faces All for One, stepping up to protect All Might. This scene is particularly powerful because it echoes Bakugo’s breakdown in season 3, reminding viewers that beneath his tough exterior, he’s still a young man trying to figure things out. His growth is put on full display, and the emotional weight is real.
A Stunning Display of Power and Emotion
What stands out in this episode is the sheer visual power of Bakugo’s fight against All for One. The animation in episode 3 is among the best we’ve seen in 2025. The color palette, the intensity of Bakugo’s explosions, and even the rainbows surrounding him as Izuku launches him into battle create a breathtaking visual experience.
But it’s not just about the visuals. The emotional weight of Bakugo’s return is what truly makes this episode shine. The sequence where Bakugo sacrifices himself to save All Might—despite his harsh exterior—is filled with meaning. It feels like a culmination of everything he’s been through. Bakugo’s journey isn’t just about saving others; it’s about him coming to terms with his past and finding redemption in the process.
A Flashback to Growth: Bakugo’s Self-Realization
In classic My Hero Academia style, the episode skillfully weaves in flashbacks that highlight Bakugo’s journey. His breakdown in season 3, where he acknowledges his vulnerabilities, plays a crucial role in the narrative. This episode brings those moments full circle as Bakugo realizes that he has always had the potential to catch up to Izuku, not just as a rival, but as an equal.
The pivotal moment comes when Bakugo embraces his quirk to its fullest potential. The relentless explosions, the savage attack on All for One, and his iconic line “I’m the real last boss” all contribute to a sense of justice being served. Bakugo’s rampage is both beautiful and dangerous, matching his newfound confidence and strength.
The Best of My Hero Academia?
It’s safe to say that My Hero Academia has seen its share of highs and lows over the years. However, this episode proves that the final season is a return to form, bringing everything fans have loved about the series back to the forefront. The action, the emotion, the character development—this is the My Hero Academia we’ve been waiting for.
While the evacuation and progress report scenes might have felt like a small dip in the overall pacing, they are minor complaints in an otherwise flawless episode. The pacing, the animation, the stakes—all of it builds toward Bakugo’s redemption arc and sets the stage for even more explosive moments to come.
Bakugo’s Legacy and Redemption Arc
What truly resonated with me was Bakugo’s self-realization at the end of the episode. When he calls himself “Ken,” he’s not just accepting himself, but acknowledging his relationship with Izuku and his place in the world of heroes. This final moment is a perfect way to close the chapter on Bakugo’s journey while leaving us excited for what comes next.
In conclusion, episode 3 of My Hero Academia Final Season is an anime masterpiece. It’s a visual spectacle with emotional depth that showcases Bakugo’s incredible development and sets the stage for what’s sure to be an epic final arc. If you haven’t started the final season yet, this episode alone is enough to get you hooked.
What did you think of Bakugo’s triumphant return? Let us know in the comments below!