One thing that fans ofBorutoseemed certain of was that the series would culminate in an epicshowdown between Boruto and Kawaki. This conclusion was hinted at from the very beginning of the series and has subtly yet significantly shaped the narrative ever since. However, recent revelations have upended this expectation, resetting the story’s endpoint. Surprisingly, this change has made the story even more engaging and rewarding.
In a translated interview posted online byNarutofan and Twitter user@UzuRepo, it was disclosed thatBorutocreatorMasashi Kishimoto’s initial concept for the series' conclusion was reworkedthrough discussions with his former assistant, Mikio Ikemoto, who is the principal illustrator and driving creative force behindBoruto.
The interview, featuring a conversation between Kishimoto and Ikemoto on their thoughts, opinions, and critiques ofBoruto- among other topics - took place during the annualNuit a Konohaevent, a celebration of the Narutoverse held in France, a country that loves manga and especiallyNaruto.
The interviews quoted below have been translated by fans so there may have been some inaccuracies.
Boruto Is Not A Static Creation, It’s A Living Series That Has Always Been Subject To Change
Ikemoto Describes How And Why The Boruto Story Has Changed
According to the interview, while Kishimoto’s original idea for the series' conclusion was sound on its own, Ikemoto felt that to take the reins and move the story forward,he needed the creative freedom to modify the plotas he saw fit.
Even if the initial idea is to make the manga more engaging, we are far removed from what was originally planned. Currently I’m in the situation of developing the story on my own - Mikio Ikemoto
Ikemoto’s instincts about the story and his drive to shake up the status quo at the end of the first series and the beginning of theTwo Blue Vortexsaga led to a significant transformation of Boruto’s character. This shift also prompted Ikemoto, much like Boruto, to think creatively and outside the box, while also considering practical approaches to crafting a compelling narrative moving forward.
What I mean is that things…don’t always go as planned. Small changes have always been made from the beginning. But little by little, the story develops in a direction that’s different from Kishimoto-sensei’s outline. - Mikio Ikemoto
Before the time skips, Boruto was living a life of privilege. However, as a result ofKawaki and Eida’s Omnipotencecheat, Boruto’s life is cast asunder. Although challenging, this new path has been cathartic, empowering, and maturing for Boruto. Like his father, Naruto, he must now rely on his training, instincts, and cunning to overcome obstacles - the same traits that propelled Naruto from beingan orphan to becoming the Hokage. From a fan’s perspective,this transformative journey is precisely what captivated them inNaruto.
Ikemoto Has Been In Command Of Boruto Since The Beginning
Fans may wonder why Ikemoto has such a significant influence overBoruto. The answer lies inKishimoto essentially handing him the keys to theBorutofranchise. In an interview with the French manga publisherKanaon August 11, 2025—translated andposted to the Fanverse website-Kishimoto revealed that while he has contributed basic ideas, suggestions, and points of order forBoruto, the creative driving force behind the series from the beginninghas always been Ikemoto.
In fact, Kishimoto has so much trust in Ikemoto that he doesn’t know what will happen in the story until he reads it in the manga himself.
Masashi Kishimoto: In the case of Boruto, I initially wrote the outline of the story, but in a very succinct manner. We then held a meeting to discuss it. It is really Master Ikemoto who is fully in charge of Boruto.
Mikio Ikemoto: At the beginning, Master Kishimoto did indeed share his story with me. But the further we go, the more the plot becomes different from what was initially planned. Today, I discuss the rest of the scenario with my editor, every month. So I think that Master Kishimoto does not yet know what will happen in the rest of Boruto."
While this revelation may come as a surprise to someBorutoandNarutofans, the results speak for themselves.Boruto: Two Blue Vortexis performing significantly better thanBoruto: Naruto - Next Generation. This could be the turning point that will leadBorutoto establish itself as worthy of theNarutolegacy.
Sources:UzuRepo,Fanverse
Boruto: Naruto Next Generations
Boruto: Naruto Next Generations follows Boruto Uzumaki, the son of Seventh Hokage Naruto Uzumaki, as he joins the Ninja Academy amidst changing times for shinobi. As mysterious events unfold, Boruto’s journey begins, establishing a new chapter in the Naruto universe. Released in 2017, the series expands on the ninja legacy.
