The Strongest Shonen Protagonists Of 2025

2025 is coming to a close, which is why it is the perfect time to look back at the different anime released throughout the year. Like most years, shonen anime were once again dominant. They were the most talked about anime in 2025 and for good reason as well. In 2025, a lot of excellent shonen anime were released, and each of them had riveting stories and a fantastic cast of characters.

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By  Mark Sammut

Of course, these shonen titles also had amazing protagonists, who had great backstories and surreal powers. However, not all of them had an equal level of strength. Some were significantly stronger than the rest. In addition to taking down powerful enemies, the might of these shonen protagonists also helped to bring a lot of viewers.

Ayase Momo

Can Use Psychic Abilities

Momo Ayase is the second main lead of Dandadan. After learning to use psychic powers in the first season, Momo has become one of the most important characters in the story. She has repeatedly utilized her abilities to rescue Okarun, save others, and defeat enemies. It's safe to say that without Momo, Okarun would have never made it this far.

In addition to her psychic abilities, Momo is also rather intelligent. She is able to come up with a counter to an enemy's ability in next to no time. In Dandadan Season 2, Momo used her strength to save an entire town from being destroyed. So, there is no doubt that Momo is among the strongest shonen leads of 2025.

Rudo

Can Turn Useless Items Into Powerful Weapons

When Gachiakuta's anime adaptation was announced, not many people thought Rudo would become a shonen icon, but they were proven wrong. Rudo is a kind person who believes every small thing has a value, and it's a mistake to throw them away, which is why he went out of his way to collect other people's "trash."

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Rudo has a special skill that allows him to transform regular items into vital instruments that he can utilize in fights. He used the skill multiple times in season 1 and helped himself and his allies to get out of trouble.

Okarun

Has Access To A Yokai's Powers

Okarun is the main protagonist of Dandadan alongside Momo Ayase. Together, they have solved many cases and taken down powerful enemies. While it's certainly true that they work better as a team, their individual strengths shouldn't be overlooked.

Okarun can use Turbo Granny's power at will, which enables him to fight Yokai and other problematic creatures. Initially, he couldn't control the power and required Momo Ayase's assistance, but thankfully, he has figured out how to use it. After the transformation, Okarun becomes faster and stronger. It's safe to say that without the added strength, the hero stands absolutely no chance against the enemies.

Kafka

Can Turn Into A Kaiju

For a long time, Kafka lived his life without pursuing his dream, but things changed after Reno Ichikawa joined the Monster Sweeper Inc. He spurred on Kafka, and ultimately the latter decided to try and join the Defense Force again. Sadly, just as things were getting good, Kafka swallowed a Kaiju and gained the ability to transform into one.

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Kafka's Kaiju form gives him exceptional physical strength, stamina, and endurance. The sharp increase in his overall abilities allows him to fight other Kaiju, which wouldn't be possible otherwise.

Midoriya Izuku

Blessed With An Amazing Quirk

Midoriya Izuku returned one more time to fans' screens with My Hero Academia Season 8. He spent years trying to get his powers under control, but after a lot of hard work, he finally managed to do so. Before getting into physical abilities, it is important to mention that Midoriya is an excellent tactician and a keen observer. Prior to receiving One for All, Midoriya would note down the abilities of other heroes, helping him to understand them better.

Moving on to Midoriya's Quirk and strength. It's easy to see why he ended up becoming the bane of so many villains. One for All granted Midoriya access to several Quirks, including Gearshift, Danger Sense, Fa Jin, Float, Smokerscreen, and Blackwhip. While One for All is a strong Quirk, what makes Midoriya a nuisance to fight is his indomitable spirit. Midoriya is among the few anime characters who keep on going no matter how bad the odds are. With such Quirks and qualities, it's not surprising that Midoriya is one of the strongest shonen protagonists of 2025.

Monkey D. Luffy

Has A Devil Fruit And Haki

Monkey D. Luffy is the captain of the Straw Hat Pirates and the main protagonist of One Piece. In 2025, Luffy went toe-to-toe with some of the biggest names in One Piece history, including Rob Lucci, Kizaru, and the Five Elders. He was able to beat Lucci and Kizaru without too many problems, and it was all due to his phenomenal abilities.

Luffy possesses the Hito Hito no Mi, Model: Nika, a Mythical Zoan-type Devil Fruit that allows him to tap into the power of the ancient sun god. Luffy can use it to make his body rubbery and turn the surroundings bouncy. He is also able to see the future with Advanced Observation Haki. With Armament and Conqueror's Haki, Luffy can increase the power of his attacks. With so many powerful abilities at his disposal, there is no question that Luffy is the strongest shonen protagonist of 2025.