Many have questioned the source of Saitama’s unusual strength, yet even he seems unsure, often attributing it to his exercise routine in a nonchalant manner. While most fans accept this explanation at face value, others have put forward their theories about what might truly be responsible for his immense power.
If you’ve spent time engaging in discussions about One Punch Man online, you’ve likely encountered various fan theories about the origins of Saitama’s strength. There is certainly no shortage of speculation surrounding this topic. Below are ten of the most widely considered possibilities.
The mystery behind limitless strength (Photo: One Punch Man/Madhouse)10. Just A Dream
A rather melancholic theory circulating among fans suggests that the entire story is merely a dream. In this scenario, Saitama remains an unemployed man who wishes he could be a hero, rather than the overwhelmingly powerful yet frequently overlooked one he appears to be.
Arguments both supporting and refuting this idea exist. The way other characters constantly underestimate Saitama could symbolize how he is treated in what would be his actual reality. At the same time, it seems doubtful that he would find his fights so dull if everything were just a figment of his imagination.
9. No Limiters
Another theory builds on information that has already been revealed in the manga. It has been stated more than once that all beings have inherent limits placed upon them. Some believe that the most elite heroes have found a method to either bypass or extend these limits.
This raises the question—does Saitama belong in this category, or does he simply lack these restrictions altogether? And if he has no limits, what exactly caused this? Some argue that his limiters were forcibly removed (leading into another theory), while others are unsure about the exact reasoning.
8. Saitama And God?
Two prevailing fan theories revolve around the existence of a god within the One Punch Man universe. The first is linked to the previous theory, suggesting that Saitama’s limiters were removed by a divine being. However, the reason behind such an action remains a matter of speculation.
Another school of thought proposes that Saitama himself is a god without realizing it. Perhaps his incredible abilities stem from subconscious reality manipulation. If this were true, it would not be the first instance of a character in fiction possessing divine power without being aware of it.
7. The Prophecy Was Talking About Him
Many will recall the partially revealed prophecy that spoke of a dire threat to the Earth, though the full details were lost due to the seer’s passing. Some fans suspect that Saitama himself is the impending disaster referenced in that prophecy.
This does not necessarily mean he will turn against humanity. Since he does not fully comprehend his strength, it is plausible that an accident could occur—one severe enough to cause planetary destruction. If that were to happen, it would be an unintentional catastrophe.
6. He’s The Fastest Hero
A faction of fans holds the belief that Saitama’s true distinction is not his strength, but his unmatched speed. Considering the correlation between velocity and impact, this argument carries a degree of logic. However, there are still lingering questions, such as how he could have attained such extraordinary speed.
Regardless, it is an interesting theory that offers a fresh perspective. It might even provide a potential explanation for his loss of hair.
5. Saitama Is Blast
Blast is widely recognized as the highest-ranked hero, yet he is absent in crucial moments. This absence has led some to theorize that Saitama and Blast are, in fact, the same person—only with a shaved head.
Over time, this idea has gained traction, leading to various sub-theories attempting to justify the circumstances that could have led to him assuming a lesser-known identity. Although his reputation has been gradually increasing, there are still gaps in this theory that need to be addressed.
4. Blast Is Saitama’s Father
Another theory connected to the top-ranked hero suggests that Blast could be Saitama’s father. If this were true, it could serve as an explanation for where Saitama’s strength originates—though it would still leave the mystery of Blast’s power unsolved.
From a logical standpoint, it does raise an interesting question. How likely is it that two heroes of such immense capability would be completely unrelated?
There have already been instances in the series of abilities being passed down through bloodlines, albeit with variations in power levels. Some fans speculate that these earlier cases were setting up a larger revelation.
3. What If It’s All A Joke?
A slightly unsettling theory suggests that the entire storyline is nothing more than a long-running joke—though not on the audience, but on Saitama himself. What if everyone around him is merely humoring a man who is desperate to be a hero?
While this concept might have seemed plausible in the early chapters, it becomes less convincing as the series progresses. Given the level of destruction and stakes involved, it is hard to believe that such extreme measures would be taken just to entertain one person.
However, the theory finds some grounding in the fact that One Punch Man was initially conceived as a parody of Shonen manga, making this interpretation a more exaggerated extension of that idea.
2. Monster Meat?
This particular theory is straightforward but surprisingly logical. What if Saitama, either intentionally or by accident, consumed monster meat? It has already been established that eating such meat can transform an individual into a monster.
What if everything is just a dream (Photo: One Punch Man/Madhouse)If someone were to consume it without the desire to become the strongest or most terrifying being, could they still retain a human form? Looking at Saitama’s flashbacks, there is a distinct difference in his appearance from before.
He is frequently depicted with injuries, often covered in both his blood and that of monsters. Could this exposure have played a role in his transformation? The repeated emphasis on these scenes raises questions.
1. Turning Evil
The final theory is one that many fans are hoping never to materialize. It draws from multiple previously discussed ideas and suggests that Saitama might eventually become the villain of the series.
The notion that the doomsday prophecy refers to Saitama has already been explored, as well as the possibility that he might have unknowingly ingested monster meat. When combined, these ideas paint a troubling picture.
Adding to this, Saitama has been displaying increasing frustration due to the lack of challenging opponents. This has been a lingering issue since the first season’s ending. While his boredom is understandable, his growing dissatisfaction could be a cause for concern.
If he ever reaches a point where he actively seeks out destruction for the sake of excitement, it could mark a drastic turn for his character.