After a long wait, the debut episode of My Hero Academia: Vigilantes has finally arrived, immersing viewers into the rich tapestry of the My Hero Academia universe. This anime adaptation introduces an exciting new roster of characters, delving into the overlooked aspects of Hero Society and highlighting the daring rescues carried out by those unrecognized as Pro Heroes.
The protagonist, Koichi Haimawari, finds himself in peril during the premiere episode titled “I’m Here.”He is trapped by a band of villains determined to harm him and the freelance idol, Pop Step. With All Might absent—perhaps on a mission or otherwise occupied—Koichi fears for his safety. However, just when it seems that all hope is lost, a surprising vigilante emerges, exhibiting strength that rivals even All Might’s.
Knuckleduster: The Vigilante Equivalent of All Might
Knuckleduster’s Lost Quirk

Readers of the My Hero Academia: Vigilantes manga, which ran from August 2016 to May 2022, are likely familiar with Iwao Oguro, better known as Knuckleduster. His moniker is apt, as he is known for delivering powerful punches to those who commit wrongdoing. Knuckleduster’s approach to justice draws parallels to Batman, characterized by his vigilantism and a somewhat mysterious persona. Notably, he shares with Deku and All Might the distinction of being Quirkless.
Once endowed with a Quirk, Knuckleduster served as the Pro Hero known as High-Speed Hero: O’Clock. However, after his Quirk was stolen by the villain All For One, he embarked on a journey without it, honing his combat skills and adopting weapons such as brass knuckles. Determined and resilient, he refuses to let the absence of a Quirk hinder his quest to thwart villains. In fact, he seems to relish his vigilante role, embracing the freedom to combat threats like the dangerous Trigger drug.
Knuckleduster’s Stunning Debut
A True Hero’s Actions

The spectacular entrance of Knuckleduster in the My Hero Academia: Vigilantes anime further cements his status as a hero on par with All Might, despite no longer being a registered Pro Hero. In a critical moment, Koichi and Kazuho Haneyama (also known as Pop Step) are threatened by a gang led by Soga Kugisaki. Just as Koichi wishes for a hero like All Might to descend from the heavens, Knuckleduster makes a dramatic entrance from a rooftop.
With impeccable timing, Knuckleduster swiftly dispatches the villains, sparing Koichi and Kazuho from further harm. This moment highlights the parallel between him and All Might, reminiscent of All Might’s own exhilarating first appearance involving a crowd of onlookers, including Koichi. Their heroic debuts underscore the shared attributes that link these two iconic heroes.
Nuanced Parallels Between Heroes
Visual Comparisons Acknowledged by Fans
They… referenced Sora Ni Utaeba OP… THEY USED THE PARALLEL SHOT OF THESE TWO I ALWAYS KNEW EXISTED I. Love. My Hero Academia. #Knuckleduster #AllMight pic.twitter.com/iAxAOTsZeZ — Mighty (@MightyGazelle1) April 7, 2025
The similarities between Knuckleduster and All Might continue to be drawn out, especially in a side-by-side visual comparison highlighted by @MightyGazelle on X. This side-by-side image captures both heroes as they heroically charge into battle, showcasing their formidable poses and determined expressions. Whether intentional or coincidental, such parallels creatively link these two figures in ways that enhance their narratives.
Beyond these striking visual connections, Knuckleduster displays many of the admirable qualities associated with All Might, evident after just one episode of My Hero Academia: Vigilantes. He possesses an unwavering sense of morality and a strong moral compass that guides him in his battle against villains. Despite being bold and assertive, Knuckleduster embodies a formidable strength that matches All Might’s, even without a Quirk.
Unyielding Heroism
Recognizing Knuckleduster’s Impact

Throughout My Hero Academia, All Might endured the loss of his Quirk after passing it along to Deku, yet he continued to fight valiantly. Notably, All Might confronted All For One, one of the most formidable antagonists in the series, in an iconic battle despite his dwindling powers. Mirroring this, Knuckleduster thrives without a Quirk, utilizing sheer physical strength to vanquish villains. Whereas it is typically challenging to heroically persevere Quirkless in the My Hero Academia universe, both All Might and Knuckleduster shatter these conventional boundaries by resolutely refusing to be defined by their limitations.
While only one episode of My Hero Academia: Vigilantes has been released, Knuckleduster has made a significant impact. While his remarkable physical prowess is commendable, his dedicated pursuit of justice further elevates his character. Though no longer an official Pro Hero, Knuckleduster’s strength, charisma, and determination suggest he could rival even All Might in the effort to protect others.