Naruto and Sasuke are the strongest heroes of their generation of shinobi; however, their achievements required significant sacrifices and help from others. They may be the focus of most of the series, but other ninjas managed to stand out despite not having as much screen time. For some, one fight was enough to prove that their potential could have been far greater if they had their own story.

It wasn’t just Naruto and Sasuke that kept fans engaged with thrilling action and power-up scenes. They were surrounded by extremely talented and dedicated teachers, leaders, and opponents who stood their ground and showed not only other ninjas but also fans that the rivalry pushing Naruto and Sasuke wasn’t the only compelling theme in Naruto when it comes to strong heroes.

7 Tobirama Senju

The Shinobi Behind the Feared and Powerful Jutsu

Tobirama Senju's strength shone during the Fourth Great Ninja War when he was resurrected alongside the other Hokages. With just a lift of his finger, he immobilized Sasuke, Orochimaru, and their allies, prompting Hashirama to intervene. While Tobirama lacked Hashirama’s empathetic leadership, he sured most shinobi in calculated strategies and advanced jutsu.

As the creator of Edo Tensei, he contributed significantly to the Allied Shinobi Forces’ victory. Upon resurrection, he quickly countered Orochimaru's reanimation jutsu and regained his free will, a feat requiring mastery or immense strength. Despite his limited exposure throughout the series, Tobirama was able to prove that he is formidable. Using the Flying Thunder God Technique, he was nearly untouchable, capable of countering even Naruto and Sasuke at their peak with minimal effort, highlighting his legacy not only as a tactical shinobi, but a powerful one.

6 Minato Namikaze

Yellow Flash of the Leaf

The apple doesn't fall far from the tree, especially with Minato Namikaze showcasing incredible strength that were clearly reflected in his son, the Seventh Hokage. While Minato’s family background is unclear and he wasn't part of any big Konoha clan, his talent and determination set him apart. He became the youngest Hokage, believed to be in his early twenties.

Minato Namikaze carved an unforgettable legacy in the shinobi world, proving that a renowned family name doesn't bind greatness.

Minato was recognized for his heroic contributions during the Third Great Ninja War, where he single-handedly turned the tide in Konoha's favor. Using his Flying Thunder God Technique, he decimated an entire battalion of enemy shinobi from Iwagakure with unmatched speed and precision. During the Fourth Great Ninja War, he used the same technique to teleport a Tailed Beast bomb, saving countless lives. Though his life was short, his impact was immense, earning him lasting respect from shinobi like Hiruzen Sarutobi and Kakashi Hatake, as well as the entire village

5 Might Guy

Madara Uchiha Declared Him as the Strongest

One might initially think that Kakashi Hatake is stronger than Might Guy, considering Kakashi's calm demeanor and impressive skills. However, Might Guy’s strength comes from his boundless hard work and determination to improve, constantly pushing himself to new limits. Although he didn’t receive as much screen time throughout the series, his moments often revolved around friendly competition with Kakashi or offering valuable advice to his students.

Might Guy's strength that almost defeated Madara Uchiha during the Fourth Great Ninja War was unparalleled.

It wasn’t until the Fourth Great Ninja War that Guy’s true potential was fully showcased. During the war, he broke through his physical limits, unleashing the power of the Eighth Gate, a devastating move that demonstrated his immense strength and selfless resolve, proving that his power went far beyond his cheerful exterior. The feared Madara Uchiha was even irritably impressed with Might Guy, declaring him Naruto's strongest hero. While this move nearly cost him his life, Might Guy showed that it is only the most determined who can reach unimaginable levels of strength.

4 Hashirama Senju

The All-Powerful God of Shinobi

The First Hokage and one of the founders of the Hidden Leaf Village, Hashirama Senju, is arguably the most respected shinobi across generations. Known as the "God of Shinobi," Hashirama possessed immense chakra reserves that allowed him to master powerful techniques like the Multiple Rashomon Gates, Barrier Jutsu, and advanced medical ninjutsu. His unparalleled strength, combined with his empathy and leadership, makes him one of the strongest heroes alongside Naruto and Sasuke.

As a reincarnation of Asura Ōtsutsuki, Hashirama embodied both incredible power and a deep sense of comion. Even when faced with Madara Uchiha wielding the Eternal Mangekyō Sharingan and the Nine-Tails, Hashirama triumphed, cementing his legendary status. His contributions during the Fourth Great Ninja War further showcased why the God of Shinobi remains a true symbol of heroism.

3 Madara Uchiha

Naruto's Best Villain

Madara Uchiha was a powerful shinobi who remained a significant threat even against Naruto Uzumaki and Sasuke Uchiha during the Fourth Great Ninja War. As the reincarnation of Indra Ōtsutsuki, he inherited incredible abilities, which he enhanced with the Rinnegan and Six Paths powers. These advancements gave him immense chakra reserves and nearly immortal status, making him an unstoppable force.

Madara wasn’t just a villain—he was a brilliant tactician who made it almost impossible for his enemies to counter his plans. While Hashirama Senju could defeat him during their era, Madara eventually sured him in strength. By becoming the Ten-Tails’ Jinchūriki, Madara pushed his abilities to an entirely new level, proving that his power could rival and even overshadow the strongest shinobi of his time.

2 Hagoromo Otsutsuki

The Otsutsuki That Helped Naruto and Sasuke Win the War

If not for Hagoromo Ōtsutsuki's arrival during the Fourth Great Ninja War, the Allied Shinobi Forces would have never turned the tide, even with Naruto and Sasuke's presence. As one of Kaguya Ōtsutsuki's sons, Hagoromo was instrumental in shaping the shinobi world. He created the foundational ninjutsu system, mastered the Rinnegan at its peak, and wielded all elemental chakra natures with ease.

Hagoromo enhanced Naruto and Sasuke's chances of defeating Kaguya Otsutsuki—a feat nearly impossible even with their immense strength

Hagoromo also sealed the Ten-Tails, showcasing unparalleled strength and chakra reserves. His actions proved his abilities were far beyond ordinary comprehension. Furthermore, Naruto and Sasuke's victory in the war hinged on Hagoromo dividing his immense power to grant them their Six Paths abilities. This act underlines that even at their peak, Naruto and Sasuke still stood in the shadow of Hagoromo’s god-like strength.

1 Kaguya Otsutsuki

The Origin of All Chakra

Kaguya Ōtsutsuki is the greatest opponent Naruto, Sasuke, and the shinobi world have ever faced. While not a hero, Kaguya’s power far sures that of Naruto and Sasuke combined. As the origin of all chakra on Earth, she is the foundation of shinobi history, which would cease to exist without her. Her limitless chakra reserves and ability to manipulate dimensions effortlessly made her nearly invincible.

During the Fourth Great Ninja War, even Naruto, Sasuke, Sakura, Kakashi, and Obito struggled against her as she teleported them to realms that gave her the advantage. Her Byakugan and Rinne Sharingan granted unmatched visual powers, and her immortality made defeating her nearly impossible. Only through the combined strength of Team 7, Hagoromo’s power, and their innate abilities were they able to seal her, proving her overwhelming dominance.