In Chainsaw Man chapter 196, readers were treated to noteworthy revelations, particularly the introduction of a new character associated with the Death Devil. However, the most talked-about moment was the appearance of what fans initially believed to be the protagonist, only to discover it was a grotesque version known as Fakesaw Man.
While Chainsaw Man chapter 196 did not explicitly confirm Fakesaw Man’s identity, subtle hints led many to speculate that this character had previously made an appearance. Notably, this Fakesaw Man, introduced in the concluding panels of chapter 196, is likely the same entity responsible for Yuko’s demise earlier in Part 2.
Connections Between Fakesaw Man and Yuko in Chainsaw Man Chapter 196
One of the primary links between the Fakesaw Man in chapter 196 and Yuko’s killer is the Fakesaw Man’s introduction line: “delivering justice with the power of justice.” This phrase may reference the Fire Devil, who was initially perceived as the Justice Devil earlier in the manga’s second arc. The transformations triggered in contractees tied to the Fire Devil further bolster this connection.
The invocation of the term “Justice Devil”by Fakesaw Man is particularly noteworthy, indicating that this character likely formed their contract early in the events of Part 2, well before Chainsaw Man Church executed the Fire Devil contracts. This suggests that Fakesaw Man has wielded these powers for quite some time, strengthening the theory that they were indeed responsible for Yuko’s murder.
It’s important to note that Yuko’s abilities were also granted by the Fire Devil and marketed to her under the guise of the Justice Devil. During her confrontation with Asa Mitaka’s bullies, Yuko referred to her actions as delivering justice. As the story progresses, this connection seems increasingly significant, especially as Asa grapples with her own sense of purpose. An encounter with Fakesaw Man could potentially lead Asa to find the strength to avenge Yuko, paralleling Denji’s own journey.
Fakesaw Man’s dramatic entrance in chapter 196 also echoes Yuko’s tragic fate. Creator Tatsuki Fujimoto deliberately crafts Fakesaw Man’s introduction by depicting him jumping down from a roof—a striking parallel to Yuko’s death, which occurred on a tall building. This connection raises further questions about the character’s possible ties to Yuko’s storyline.
A counterargument exists regarding the identity of Fakesaw Man when comparing their appearance to Yuko’s killer depicted in chapter 111. The distinction in the physical portrayal—the arm gripping Yuko’s headless body contrasting sharply with Fakesaw Man’s skeletal frame—could be reconciled through a potential retcon or flashback by Fujimoto, should the two characters ultimately be linked.
Conclusion and Speculation
While these theories remain speculative, they gain traction from Fujimoto’s tendency to infuse purpose into his storytelling. The introduction of a character like Fakesaw Man likely holds deeper implications for the narrative. Fans can look forward to further clarifications about this enigmatic character when the series resumes on March 26, 2025, in Japan.