Kurama’s death in Boruto: Naruto Next Generations is one of the most surprising and emotional moments in the Naruto franchise. After decades of being Naruto Uzumaki’s greatest source of power and closest companion, the Nine-Tailed Fox sacrifices himself during the battle against Isshiki Otsutsuki. This moment not only changes Naruto’s abilities but also reshapes his role in the story moving forward.
For years, Naruto relied on Kurama’s chakra for massive strength, healing, and transformation abilities like Nine-Tails Chakra Mode and Baryon Mode. Losing Kurama raises an important question: how strong is Naruto now, and what does his future look like in Boruto? Understanding the aftermath of Kurama’s death requires breaking down Naruto’s remaining powers, his limitations, and how his character evolves without the Nine-Tails.
How Kurama Dies in Boruto
Kurama dies after Naruto uses Baryon Mode during his fight against Isshiki Otsutsuki. This transformation is unlike any previous power-up, as it consumes both Naruto’s and Kurama’s chakra as raw energy. The form dramatically increases Naruto’s speed and strength, allowing him to overpower Isshiki.
However, Baryon Mode comes with a fatal cost. Kurama later reveals that the technique was always meant to consume his own life force, not Naruto’s. This means that using the form guarantees Kurama’s death once the battle ends.
The farewell scene between Naruto and Kurama confirms that the Nine-Tails will not return. Unlike previous instances where Tailed Beasts could revive, Kurama’s chakra is completely exhausted, marking a permanent loss.
Naruto’s Powers After Losing Kurama
Without Kurama, Naruto loses access to many of his strongest abilities. He can no longer use Nine-Tails Chakra Mode, Tailed Beast Bombs, or the massive chakra reserves that once made him nearly unstoppable. This significantly reduces his raw power compared to his peak during Naruto Shippuden.
However, Naruto is far from powerless. He still retains his Sage Mode, which grants enhanced strength, speed, and sensory abilities. His experience as a fighter and mastery of techniques like Rasengan and shadow clones remain intact.
Additionally, Naruto still possesses a portion of chakra from other Tailed Beasts, although it is not as dominant as Kurama’s influence. This means he can still perform high-level techniques, but with more limitations than before.
How Naruto’s Role Changes in Boruto
Kurama’s death marks a shift in Naruto’s role within the Boruto series. Instead of being the strongest fighter who handles every major threat, he becomes more of a guiding figure for the next generation. This change reflects the series’ focus on Boruto and other younger characters.
As Hokage, Naruto continues to protect the village, but he must now rely more on strategy and teamwork rather than overwhelming power. This creates a more balanced dynamic, where threats cannot be solved by strength alone.
The loss also adds emotional depth to Naruto’s character. Kurama was not just a power source but a lifelong companion, and his absence leaves a noticeable impact on Naruto’s personality and decisions.
Is Naruto Still Strong Without Kurama?
Naruto remains one of the strongest characters in Boruto, even without Kurama. His Sage Mode alone puts him above most shinobi, and his battle experience makes him incredibly dangerous in combat. However, he is no longer at the god-like level he once reached during the Fourth Great Ninja War.
Compared to enemies like Otsutsuki members, Naruto now faces greater challenges. This shift raises the stakes of future battles and allows other characters, including Sasuke and Boruto, to take on more significant roles.
The power gap also introduces a sense of vulnerability that was missing in earlier arcs. Naruto can no longer rely on limitless chakra, making every fight more strategic and grounded.
