How Does Wattpad Fanfiction Reimagine The Rivalry And Eventual Love Between Bakugo And Deku In 'My Hero Academia'?

wattpad fanfiction takes the explosive dynamic between Bakugo and Deku from 'My Hero Academia' and twists it into something that feels both familiar and entirely new. I’ve spent hours scrolling through stories that reimagine their rivalry as a slow-burn romance, where every insult and clash of fists hides a deeper, unspoken tension. One standout fic I stumbled upon set them as childhood friends who drifted apart after a misunderstanding, only to reunite in UA with all that unresolved history bubbling beneath the surface. The author nailed Bakugo’s abrasive exterior while giving him moments of vulnerability—like secretly admiring Deku’s determination or panicking when Deku gets hurt during training. It’s these small, humanizing details that make the eventual shift from enemies to lovers feel earned.

Another trend I’ve noticed is the use of alternate universes to explore their relationship in fresh ways. One story placed them as rival chefs in a high-stakes cooking competition, with Bakugo’s fiery temper clashing against Deku’s meticulous creativity. The tension was palpable, and the eventual confession scene—set in a kitchen filled with the smell of burnt caramel and fresh herbs—was oddly perfect. Another AU had them as rival detectives in a noir-inspired world, where Bakugo’s brash methods constantly clashed with Deku’s analytical approach. The slow unraveling of their mutual respect, and the eventual realization that they’re better together, was a masterclass in pacing.

What I love most about these stories is how they handle Bakugo’s character growth. Canon often paints him as a hothead, but fanfiction digs deeper, exploring why he’s so driven and how Deku’s unwavering kindness chips away at his defenses. One fic I adored had Bakugo struggling with the pressure of being the “perfect hero,” and Deku becoming his anchor during moments of self-doubt. The way the author wrote their interactions—full of sharp banter but also quiet understanding—felt true to their characters while pushing them into uncharted territory.

The best fics also don’t shy away from the complexities of their relationship. There’s a recurring theme of Bakugo grappling with guilt over how he treated Deku in the past, and Deku learning to stand up for himself rather than always forgiving. One story had them teaming up for a mission that forced them to confront their shared history, with Bakugo finally apologizing in his own gruff way. The emotional payoff was immense, and it made me appreciate how fanfiction can take a rivalry as intense as theirs and turn it into something deeply human. Whether it’s through AUs, canon divergence, or just exploring the quieter moments between battles, Wattpad fanfiction gives Bakugo and Deku the depth and nuance they deserve.