Dabi's profound hatred for Endeavor stems primarily from his traumatic experiences as Endeavor's son, rooted in a history of parental neglect, intense emotional rejection, and feeling exploited. This deep-seated animosity is a core driver of Dabi's villainous actions.
The Deep Roots of Dabi's Animosity Towards Endeavor
As Touya Todoroki, Endeavor's eldest son, Dabi endured a upbringing defined by his father's relentless ambition and singular focus on surpassing All Might. This environment bred a complex and ultimately destructive relationship, leaving Dabi with significant emotional scars.
A History of Rejection and Disregard
One of the primary reasons for Dabi's resentment is Endeavor's past rejection of him. When Touya's Quirk, Cremation, proved incompatible with his body, and his desire to follow in Endeavor's footsteps became a health risk, Endeavor essentially cast him aside. This rejection was not just professional but deeply personal, making Touya feel abandoned and unvalued by his own father.
Feeling Like a Tool
Dabi perceived himself as a mere instrument in Endeavor's grand scheme to produce a successor capable of surpassing All Might. His existence and abilities were seemingly only relevant as long as they served Endeavor's ambition. Once he no longer fit Endeavor's "perfect child" mold (which eventually landed on Shoto), Touya felt discarded. This transactional view of his worth deeply embittered him, fostering a sense of being used rather than loved unconditionally.
Overwhelming Negligence and Its Consequences
Endeavor's overwhelming negligence played a pivotal role in Dabi's descent into villainy. His father's relentless pursuit of power and his focus on perfecting his children as heroes meant that Touya's emotional and psychological well-being were severely overlooked. This lack of proper guidance, emotional support, and parental care created an environment where Touya's pain festered, eventually leading him down a destructive path.
Key Reasons for Dabi's Hatred:
| Aspect of Neglect/Abuse | Impact on Dabi (Touya Todoroki) |
|---|---|
| Parental Rejection | Felt abandoned and unvalued by his father. |
| Feeling of Being Used | Saw himself as a tool for Endeavor's ambition, not a beloved son. |
| Overwhelming Negligence | Lack of emotional support and guidance contributed directly to his fall into villainy. |
Ultimately, Dabi's hatred for Endeavor is a direct consequence of this cycle of rejection, perceived exploitation, and profound neglect. His actions as a villain are largely driven by a desire to expose Endeavor's past, dismantle his reputation, and make him suffer for the pain he inflicted.
