The epic clash between Itachi Uchiha and Kakashi Hatake is embedded in every Naruto fan’s memory. Two ninja giants crossed their swords in such a manner that it actually became quite impossible to forget. But here comes a question: what triggered this relentless battle?
Though the anime and manga provided background information, one interesting fan theory gave that the real reason for the fight of Itachi vs. Kakashi could be more complex than one may think. The theory states that the real seeds of conflict were sown by an unexpected factor: Sasuke’s presence.
As one commenter on Reddit stated, one of the questions that was really never brought up in the original Naruto series is just what the point of Itachi and Kisame even was. Sure, most people say they were for Akatsuki setup and showing Itachi’s place in eventually making Sasuke leave, but one YouTube commenter put up an interesting opinion.
In the ANBU Kakashi filler, after slaughtering his clan, there is a discreet meeting between Itachi and Hiruzen. Hiruzen refuses to alter the jutsu barrier code, so Itachi can visit the village. But after Orochimaru’s disastrous attempt to destroy the Leaf, and the eventual death of Hiruzen, the code was most likely changed.
Itachi would definitely know this, but he just wanted to check up on Sasuke anyway. As a side note, Kisame asks who Sasuke is when they meet at the hotel, so Itachi may not have checked on him prior. Itachi could have gone to check up on Sasuke before teaming up with Kisame or briefly left Kisame to visit his brother. Though still filler material, it is quite plausible in explaining Itachi’s actions.
We Got To See Itachi’s Famous Tsukuyomi Used On Kakashi For The First Time
This moment in the Naruto series, when Sasuke’s presence triggered Itachi to use his dreaded Tsukuyomi against Kakashi, was one of the biggest turning points of the story. It had been the first time that it was shown what Itachi was truly capable of, which really did define a moment of the story. It would be Sasuke’s coming that would trigger the events leading Itachi to use his space-time manipulation genjutsu, the Tsukuyomi.
The scene was full of tension and intrigue. Fans could finally understand how real Itachi’s strength was, and just how complicated their relationship with Sasuke really was. That would be the moment, forever changeable in terms of series dynamics and setting a stage for drama plus all the upcoming battles.
Even though this might sound somewhat legit, it is after all a fan theory. So it would be advised to you, readers, to take it with a grain of salt. Cause, if you manage to check the real reddit post linked above, you will also see a lot of comments to that, denying the possibility of the said theory.
As fans, yes, we can definitely indulge in our excitement by speculating and trying out new ideas. But we also need to keep our minds open. This way, we’re supporting a healthy and engaging fan base where diverse views and debates go hand in hand. So, let’s keep speculating and arguing, with an added pinch of salt and respect for dialogue.
You can watch Naruto series on Crunchyroll.
