8 Anime Heroes Who Were Handed a Win They Didn't Deserve

Anime is filled with countless stories of heroes and triumphs, whether on the battlefield or through high-stakes trials. These moments are often framed as earned, hard-won victories that push the protagonist or narrative forward in ways that allow for meaningful development or growth.

However, some victories rely entirely on luck, narrative convenience, or unexpected interventions that shape the outcome. Even for the most powerful and intelligent characters, there are some moments where success feels handed to them on a silver platter. These victories tend to stand out among anime, often sparking discussion over what the end could have looked like without plot armor.

Kirito vs. Akihiko Kayaba (Sword Art Online)

Kirito stood out in Sword Art Online as a solo player, a beta tester, and having unique skills, such as dual-wielding. By the time players reached the final stretch of the game, on the 75th floor, Kirito had discovered that Heathcliff, the leader of the Knights of the Blood, was secretly Akihiko Kayaba, the game’s creator.

This led to a climactic one-on-one battle that would determine the fate of all surviving players in SAO. However, by the end of the battle, Kayaba killed Asuna and later impaled Kirito, draining his health bar. Yet, despite depleting his HP, Kirito managed to defeat Kayaba through sheer willpower, making Kirito’s win a miracle victory.

Naruto Uzumaki vs. Pain (Naruto: Shippuden)

Naruto Uzumaki had grown from an underdog ninja into one of Konoha’s most powerful, mastering both Sage Mode and the power of the Nine-Tails. However, when facing Pain, it seemed that Naruto was against a seemingly insurmountable opponent who stood as a terrifying force of destruction.

Naruto’s victory hinged on a combination of critical interventions and narrative timing, including Hinata’s supposed death, which sparked the Nine-Tails' takeover, creating a sudden shift in the battle. By the time Naruto came to his senses, he was able to reenter the fight with replenished Sage Mode chakra, granting him a massive advantage.

Takemichi Hanagaki vs. Taiju Shiba (Tokyo Revengers)

Takemichi Hanagaki from Tokyo Revengers is far from a typical fighter. His strength lies in his determination, bravery, and ability to survive against overwhelming odds. Facing Taiju Shiba marked a significant turning point for his character as Takemichi proved his ability to keep standing and inspire those around him.

While his “victory” over Taiju was largely a result of timing and external support, Takemichi indirectly won the fight by achieving what he set out to do in the first place by saving his friend. However, given the sheer strength of Taiju, the length the battle dragged on, and the late arrival of Mikey and Draken, Takemichi’s success feels hollow.

Izuku Midoriya vs. Muscular (My Hero Academia)

Izuku Midoriya, also known as Deku, the main hero of My Hero Academia, was faced with a seemingly unstoppable opponent in the third season. Muscular stood out as a villain whose raw strength dwarfed Deku’s power; however, with no other choice, he was forced to confront the villain in a one-on-one battle to protect young Kota.

The outcome of the battle hinges on Deku’s double use of One For All at 100%, which had no lasting effect on Muscular. In order to win, Deku relied on a climactic 1,000,000% Smash that completely overwhelms Muscular. However, given the previous limitations and the backlash against using One For All to this point, Deku’s win comes across as inconsistent storytelling.

Tanjiro Kamado vs. Akaza (Demon Slayer)

Tanjiro Kamado’s toughest challenges came from within the Infinity Castle during Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle Part 1, when he faced Akaza, the Upper Rank 3 demon. Tanjiro’s survival depended on his swordsmanship and partnership with the Water Hashira, Giyu Tomioka.

Despite how hard both Demon Slayers fought, Akaza proved himself to be a terrifying adversary. Tanjiro and Giyu’s victory stemmed from Akaza’s shifting mindset during the battle, as he recalled memories from his human life. In the end, it was Akaza who took his own life, allowing Tanjiro and Giyu a moment of respite before continuing through the Infinity Castle.

Denji “Chainsaw Man” vs. Reze “Bomb Devil” (Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc)

Denji, also known as the titular character in Chainsaw Man, had no other choice but to confront Reze, the dangerous and cunning Bomb Devil, in a high-stakes, emotionally charged battle. While Denji’s power as Chainsaw Man is immense, Reze proved herself to be extraordinarily powerful.

However, despite Reze’s power and near victory several times, Denji ultimately won the battle by dragging her into the sea. However, if Reze didn’t allow her feelings to cloud her judgment, it's likely she would have easily won the battle. In the end, Denji survives the conflict while Reze meets her fate at the hands of Makima.

Light Yagami vs. L (Death Note)

Light Yagami, the protagonist of Death Note, isn’t considered a hero by fans. However, there is debate among the fan base over whether Light was truly a villain or an anti-hero, with the general consensus that he started as an anti-hero before his descent into villainy.

Central to the narrative is Light’s battle of wits against world-renowned detective L, which ultimately results in L’s death at the hands of Rem, the shinigami, after careful manipulation from Light. Many agree that Light’s victory was shallow and ill-earned, especially given that L knew Light was Kira, but lacked the evidence to prove it.

Son Goku vs. Frieza (Dragon Ball Z)

Son Goku is the Saiyan warrior at the center of Dragon Ball. When he’s faced against the galactic tyrant, Frieza on Planet Namek, it quickly becomes clear that Frieza is a truly formidable foe. Time and again, Frieza proved his power and durability, surviving attacks that should have resulted in his death.

By the end of their battle, Goku achieves the legendary Super Saiyan transformation, enabling him to overpower the villain. However, Frieza had plenty of opportunities to defeat Goku and simply didn’t, due not only to arrogance but also to plot armor protecting the hero from permanent death.