Boruto may be lying about his control over Momoshiki, and it makes perfect sense

The relationship between the protagonist and Momoshiki Otsutsuki remains one of the most intriguing mysteries in the Boruto series. While the Karma wielder has shown signs of mastering Momoshiki’s immense power, recent events suggest he may be hiding the full extent of his abilities.

A theory by Reddit user @Planechemist5717 pointed out, in chapter 78, the protagonist’s actions left allies and enemies questioning whether Momoshiki was in control or if the Hokage's son had orchestrated a clever play. This potential deception hints at a deliberate strategy that allows the protagonist to harness power while keeping his true capabilities under wraps, a move that might redefine his path as a shinobi.

Boruto may have learned to control Momoshiki's power but doesn't want to reveal it yet

A snapshot of the protagonist (Image via Studio Pierrot)

The evidence through the series so far suggests that Momoshiki can only take over the protagonist’s consciousness when he is physically weakened or has depleted chakra reserves. This pattern first emerged during Team 7’s battle against Boro when Boruto was incapacitated and Momoshiki manifested to save the team.

A similar takeover occurred after the protagonist’s fight with Isshiki Otsutsuki, where a weakened Boruto attacked Sasuke under Momoshiki’s control. The third instance came during the protagonist and Kawaki’s confrontation with Code when the protagonist’s drained state allowed Momoshiki to emerge.

Momoshiki Otsutsuki as shown in the anime series (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Whenever Momoshiki possesses the protagonist, distinct physical transformations occur. A horn grows from his forehead, his headband slips from his forehead to his neck, and his left eye remains closed. These indicators have been consistent across all instances of Momoshiki's manifestation.

However, he may have somehow accessed Momoshiki’s abilities while retaining control, indicated by both his eyes remaining open and the absence of the horn. The angular Karma pattern and the Byakugan, typically seen during Momoshiki’s possession, also appeared, suggesting the protagonist may have learned to harness these powers independently.

Boruto may have deceived everyone into thinking he was Momoshiki in chapter 78 of the manga

Kawaki as shown in the anime series (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Chapter 78 brought an unexpected twist when the Karma wielder, seemingly under Momoshiki’s influence, absorbed Shikamaru’s Shadow Possession Jutsu to help Kawaki escape.

This act left allies and enemies questioning Momoshiki’s motives. However, closer analysis of the protagonist’s condition and appearance challenges the assumption that Momoshiki was in control. The Karma wielder was neither weakened nor low on chakra. There are the conditions typically required for possession.

Furthermore, the usual signs of Momoshiki’s control, such as the horn and displaced headband, were absent. While Boruto’s left eye was closed during the event, other visual indicators didn’t align with prior manifestations of Momoshiki.

Momoshiki takes over the protagonist (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Several clues point to the protagonist possibly orchestrating the situation himself. In earlier chapters, the Karma wielder demonstrated growing confidence in managing Momoshiki’s power, even vowing to prevent further possessions. It’s plausible that the protagonist intentionally mimicked Momoshiki’s typical appearance: keeping his left eye closed to mislead those around him.

This tactic would allow the protagonist to use Momoshiki’s abilities without alarming his allies or foes. Even Sasuke, known for his sharp perception, appeared unsure about Momoshiki’s intentions, indicating that the Karma wielder’s deception may have been convincing enough to confuse everyone.

Final thoughts

A snapshot from the anime series (Image via Studio Pierrot)

This theory underscores the protagonist’s growing strategic acumen and his deepening control over Momoshiki’s powers. By potentially feigning possession, Boruto demonstrated not just his mastery over an Otsutsuki’s formidable abilities but also his ability to outthink both allies and enemies.

If this theory proves accurate, it marks a significant evolution in the protagonist’s character and his journey as a shinobi. However, as the story progresses, future chapters will likely reveal more about the Karma wielder’s true capabilities and the complex dynamics of his connection with Momoshiki.