Is Jujutsu Kaisen the next Yu Yu Hakusho or Hunter x Hunter?

Jujutsu Kaisen Chapter 224 leaked spoilers recently surfaced on the internet, giving fans a glimpse into the continuation of the intense fight between Ryomen Sukuna and Satoru Gojo. As fans eagerly anticipated the outcome of this monumental battle, they also noticed the subtle references scattered throughout the chapter, paying homage to mangaka Yoshihiro Togashi’s renowned series, Hunter x Hunter and Yu Yu Hakusho.

Although Jujutsu Kaisen Chapter 224 wasn’t filled to the brim with references to Togashi’s works, there were two standout moments that caught the attention of fans. Additionally, there’s speculation about Sukuna’s demeanor throughout the chapter, with some fans discussing possible connections to Togashi’s characters, although these discussions are primarily taking place on niche forum sites rather than mainstream social media platforms.

It’s evident that Jujutsu Kaisen Chapter 224 showcases Gege Akutami’s admiration for Yoshihiro Togashi’s creations. While this isn’t the first time fans have become aware of Akutami’s love for Togashi’s works, it’s undeniably one of the most prominent displays of that passion in recent memory.

The chapter gradually unveils Togashi’s influence, with the references becoming more apparent as the story progresses. One notable reference occurs when Sukuna attempts to use his Dismantle Cursed Technique on Gojo. In this scene, Gojo assumes a finger gun gesture to unleash his Cursed Technique, while simultaneously grasping his right elbow with his left hand. This pose serves as a clear nod to Yusuke Urameshi, the protagonist of Yu Yu Hakusho, whose signature attack, the Spirit Gun, is executed using the same hand gesture as Sukuna.

Ironically, Sukuna’s use of the Dismantle Cursed Technique leads to another Togashi reference later in Jujutsu Kaisen Chapter 224. As Sukuna and Gojo engage in their fierce battle amidst the destruction of buildings, Gojo squats down, turns his body away from Sukuna, and clenches his right hand into a fist before placing it in the palm of his left hand. This posture echoes the iconic attack of Gon Freecs, the protagonist of Hunter x Hunter, known as Jajanken. Gon’s Jajanken technique references the “rock” move in the game of rock-paper-scissors and unleashes a powerful strike. Gojo’s strikingly similar stance in this moment pays tribute to Gon’s iconic move.

Some fans have also noticed additional details on smaller, niche forum sites, suggesting similarities between Gojo’s outfit in Jujutsu Kaisen Chapter 224 and the attire of Gon and Killua Zoldyck during the Chimera Ant arc in Hunter x Hunter. Furthermore, fans speculate that Sukuna’s sadistic yet upbeat demeanor and smile may draw inspiration from Hisoka’s characterization throughout Hunter x Hunter.

It’s important to note that Jujutsu Kaisen Chapter 224 isn’t solely reliant on Togashi references. The chapter’s narrative and action unfold in a way that showcases Akutami’s distinct storytelling style and the world-building of the Jujutsu Kaisen universe. While Togashi’s influence is undeniable, Jujutsu Kaisen has its own unique identity and narrative trajectory.

Akutami’s admiration for Togashi extends beyond Jujutsu Kaisen Chapter 224. The series has previously referenced and paid tribute to various mangakas and their works, including Masashi Kishimoto’s Naruto, Tite Kubo’s Bleach, ONE and Yusuke Murata’s One Punch Man, and Yoshiyuki Sadamoto’s Neon Genesis Evangelion. Akutami’s influences range from iconic movies like Lord of the Rings, Cast Away, Kill Bill, and even 2001: A Space Odyssey to diverse artistic sources such as Claude Monet, the Digimon series and games, Winnie the Pooh, Japanese and Chinese mythology, and scientific theories and principles.

While Akutami draws inspiration from Togashi’s works, Jujutsu Kaisen aims to carve its own path and establish its distinct legacy. It’s unfair to label it solely as an attempt to replicate Hunter x Hunter or Yu Yu Hakusho. Akutami’s creative and intellectual genius shines through in the series, blending various influences to create a fresh and captivating narrative that resonates with fans. Jujutsu Kaisen may not reach the same genre-defining status as Hunter x Hunter, but it stands as a testament to Akutami’s originality and storytelling prowess.

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