Knuckleduster in My Hero Academia: Vigilantes has long drawn comparisons to Batman, but Episode 10 makes Zack Snyder‘s influence on Knuckleduster in My Hero Academia: Vigilantes clear with a striking training scene reminiscent of Bruce Wayne’s regimen. This episode unveils more of Knuckleduster’s backstory while highlighting how anime creators draw inspiration from iconic Western superheroes.
Knuckleduster’s Character and Batman Parallels
From the outset of the series, Knuckleduster stands out in the My Hero Academia: Vigilantes universe, evoking strong associations with Batman. Fans have often called him the “Walmart version” or “Temu” version of DC’s vigilante, Iwao Oguro’s non-powered status and costume reinforce these comparisons. Beyond appearance, Knuckleduster’s motivation, moral ambiguity, and relentless pursuit of justice align him with Bruce Wayne, establishing him as the “Batman of My Hero Academia.”
The series doesn’t shy away from these parallels. The latest episode takes things further with a scene that echoes one of the most memorable moments from Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. Such stylistic choices indicate a deliberate homage to Zack Snyder’s influence on Knuckleduster in My Hero Academia: Vigilantes, blending Western hero tropes with Japanese storytelling.
The Iconic Training Montage in Episode 10
Episode 10 delves deeper into Knuckleduster’s motivations. As a mentor to younger characters Koichi and Pop Step, and as someone operating outside legal boundaries, Iwao Oguro brings a complex presence to the spin-off. Behind his confidence in his abilities, there exists a tragic past—his wife is hospitalized and unable to speak after a critical encounter with Kuin Hachisuka, the chief antagonist. This deeply personal loss shapes his dogged determination to uncover the truth about her fate.
The episode’s pivotal training montage takes place after Knuckleduster gathers clues from Soga about Kuin’s location. In a scene lifted almost shot-for-shot from Batman v Superman, Knuckleduster performs pull-ups with weights attached, then stops to gaze at a photo of his wife. The choreography mirrors Bruce Wayne’s intense workouts and moments of focus on his adversaries. As fans pointed out in Reddit discussions, these similarities are far too precise to be coincidental and show the creators’ respect for Snyder’s cinematic portrayal of Batman.
Such deliberate references highlight a larger pattern in the anime: characters modeled after iconic Western superheroes. Koichi, with his relatable struggles and underdog status, also recalls elements of Spider-Man. These parallels draw in viewers familiar with the DC Extended Universe and forge connections between Japanese and Western pop culture.
The Impact of Western Superhero Inspiration in Anime
My Hero Academia: Vigilantes exemplifies how manga and anime can be shaped by global influences. While maintaining original narratives and unique characters, creators often channel the archetypes and aesthetics found in Marvel and DC stories. This creative blend is evident in Knuckleduster’s arc, where elements from American comics are repurposed into a fresh, emotionally impactful story.
The series stands apart from the main My Hero Academia storyline by offering a mature, darker perspective on what it means to be a hero. Adult heroes like Knuckleduster navigate complex moral landscapes, their actions driven by trauma, loss, and a personal sense of justice rather than simply striving to save the day. The emotional gravity of Knuckleduster’s journey is heightened through recognizable motifs like strenuous physical training, echoing Bruce Wayne’s iconic preparation for confronting evil.
This exchange of symbols and ideas resonates with viewers and enriches the experience for fans of both anime and superhero films. The show simultaneously pays homage to Western icons and advances its own story, demonstrating the versatility and reach of the superhero genre worldwide.
Why My Hero Academia: Vigilantes Appeals to Superhero Fans
For those devoted to superhero stories, My Hero Academia: Vigilantes is essential viewing, especially for how it honors the legacy of legendary figures like Batman. Its narrative explores heroes who work outside the spotlight, defending citizens when official forces fall short. The tone is noticeably darker, targeting an older audience and focusing on the physical and psychological struggles faced by adults rather than the challenges of youth.
Knuckleduster’s personal saga remains one of the series’ most poignant elements. Viewers are only starting to unravel the full depths of his tragedy, with more twists likely to come. His journey mirrors Bruce Wayne’s, both men driven by personal loss and a desperate need to set things right. The training montage from Episode 10 perfectly encapsulates his single-minded focus and determination to track down Kuin Hachisuka, highlighting Zack Snyder’s influence on Knuckleduster in My Hero Academia: Vigilantes for attentive viewers.
In focusing on raw effort and the pursuit of personal justice in a world of superpowered individuals, the series offers a fresh lens on heroism. Knuckleduster’s struggles remind viewers that true strength sometimes lies not in supernatural powers, but in unyielding resolve and the will to fight for what matters most.
My Hero Academia: Vigilantes is available for streaming on Crunchyroll, providing superhero genre fans an engaging and emotionally resonant take on classic archetypes.
