Jujutsu Kaisen: Yuji Itadori’s Fate Mirrors Sukuna in Modulo Finale

The final chapter of Jujutsu Kaisen Modulo has arrived, and with it, a striking revelation about the future of Yuji Itadori. The six-chapter follow-up to Gege Akutami’s hugely popular Jujutsu Kaisen, set 68 years after the original series’ conclusion, doesn’t just offer a glimpse into a world grappling with the aftermath of Ryomen Sukuna’s reign—it as well suggests Yuji is destined to follow a similar path, becoming a Cursed Object himself. This development, revealed in Chapter 25, positions Yuji as a long-term safeguard for Earth, potentially for centuries to come.

Jujutsu Kaisen Modulo, which ran in Weekly Shonen Jump, served as a bridge between the original series and an uncertain future. Beyond the implications for Yuji, the story also marked Earth’s first official contact with the Simurians, an extraterrestrial race possessing powers akin to Jujutsu sorcerers. The arrival of over 50,000 Simurians initially triggered a high-alert response, classified as a special grade threat comparable to Sukuna himself, but negotiations for coexistence ultimately faltered, leading to conflict.

A Fate Echoing Sukuna’s

The parallel between Yuji’s projected fate and that of Ryomen Sukuna is deliberate and unsettling. The original Jujutsu Kaisen concluded with the last of Sukuna’s fingers secured in a box, a lingering threat despite not being enough for a full manifestation. Similarly, Yuji, after decades of life following the events of the main series, appears to be on a trajectory toward becoming a Cursed Object upon his death. He shares this realization with Nobara Kugisaki in the final chapter, solidifying the connection.

However, the circumstances surrounding their transformations aren’t identical. While Sukuna actively collaborated with Kenjaku to become a Cursed Object before his death, Yuji’s transition seems less intentional. The story acknowledges Kenjaku’s involvement in Yuji’s path as well, blurring the lines between agency and manipulation. This nuance adds a layer of tragedy to Yuji’s potential fate, suggesting he may be an unwilling participant in a cycle of power and protection.

The Simurians and a New Era of Threats

The introduction of the Simurians in JJK Modulo expands the scope of the Jujutsu Kaisen universe beyond Earthly curses. According to the Jujutsu Kaisen Wiki, the Simurians, led by Rumelians and Dabura, possess the capability to oppose all Jujutsu sorcerers in Japan, making their invasion a threat on par with Sukuna. Their arrival raises questions about the potential for further extraterrestrial encounters and the challenges of defending Earth against cosmic threats.

The conflict with the Simurians, as detailed in CBR’s coverage of the series’ conclusion, highlights the difficulties of interspecies communication and the fragility of peace. The story doesn’t offer easy answers, instead presenting a complex situation where both sides have legitimate concerns and motivations. The fate of Maru, a Simurian who befriended Yuka and Tsurugi Okkotsu, underscores the personal cost of the escalating conflict.

Yuji’s Enduring Legacy

Despite the somber implications of becoming a Cursed Object, Yuji’s dedication to protecting others remains unwavering. He reaffirms his commitment to helping people “with his own two hands,” suggesting he will continue to act as a guardian even in his new form. This echoes his grandfather’s teachings and reinforces his core character trait: a selfless desire to do good.

It’s a bittersweet outcome for the protagonist, who initially sought a peaceful death surrounded by friends. Becoming an immortal Cursed Object seemingly forecloses that possibility, trapping him in a perpetual cycle of defense. However, the story also suggests that Yuji may spend centuries safeguarding Earth before his eventual transformation, offering a prolonged period of peace and stability.

What Lies Ahead for the Jujutsu Kaisen Universe?

Predicting the future of the Jujutsu Kaisen universe is a daunting task. JJK Modulo has broadened the scope of the story, introducing extraterrestrial elements and hinting at the possibility of future threats beyond Cursed Spirits. The existence of the Simurians opens the door to other alien races, while the enduring power of Cursed Objects like Yuji ensures that the fight against darkness will continue.

The series’ success, as evidenced by the creation of a sequel 68 years after the original, demonstrates the enduring appeal of its characters and themes. Whether future installments will explore the ramifications of the Simurian conflict, delve deeper into the nature of Cursed Objects, or introduce new challenges remains to be seen. For now, fans can find solace in the knowledge that Yuji Itadori, in one form or another, will continue to stand as Earth’s silent protector.