Although they may seem distant as teens, Bakugo and Deku becoming friends again was never impossible. A lot of time has passed since their days as kids wandering the outskirts of their suburban neighborhood.
Bakugo and Deku do become friends again, even if their dynamic is more of a rivalry. Bakugo’s tendency to push around Deku fades as the series goes on. He grows to be more conscious of his teammates and their helpfulness to his growth as a hero.
Some Chapter Specific Examples
Below are some chapter specific answers. If you’re not caught up with the manga, you may or may not be spoiled.
Deku vs. Bakugo
In manga chapters 117-121, Bakugo brings Deku to the Ground Beta, a training ground near U.A. High School.
The two fight and Deku realizes Bakugo’s inability to express himself outside of aggression. Bakugo admits he feels guilty for putting All Might into the situation that ultimately led to his retirement, and Deku accepts that communicating with Bakugo through combat is the only way to level things out.
Deku admits to Bakugo that he views him as an idol, a marker of strength that he can compare his own to. Once All Might consoles the two after the fight, he thinks to himself that Deku has maintained a great childhood friendship. This is the point that signifies the end of Bakugo’s disbelief in Deku’s strength.
Joint Training Arc
During the Joint Training arc, Bakugo begins to show a lot of personal growth. He defends his teammate Jiro from an oncoming enemy attack, explaining he’ll only consider the mission a success if everyone stays safe.
Towards the end of the arc, Deku unlocks his Black Whip ability. Bakugo acts as a sparring partner during this new quirk phase, and he urges Deku to master the new ability sooner rather than later.
Paranormal Liberation War Arc
Some of the recent chapters show the budding friendship between Bakugo and Deku more clearly. During the Paranormal Liberation War Arc, Bakugo sacrificed himself to save Deku from severe injury.
All For One assumed control of Shigaraki’s body, launching his sharp-edged Rivet Stab quirk towards Deku. Bakugo instinctually jumped in harm’s way to protect him.
In Chapter 298, Bakugo wakes up in the hospital after his sacrifice. He’s immediately concerned about Deku’s health, jumping out of the bed and rushing to his room.
Verdict on “Do Bakugo And Deku Become Friends Again”
That’s the range of their friendship as it stands right now. Bakugo and Deku will definitely become friends again, if they haven’t already. Their friendship is more of a rivalry, so it’ll never seem warm on the surface.