Chouji could also be a great unexpected character. Usually seen as the food - loving and somewhat laid - back ninja. But in the fanfic, he could have trained intensively in a new form of his clan's jutsu. His new - found power and his ability to use his size and strength in unexpected ways could make him shine during the Jounin exams.
Iruka could be an unexpected character to shine. He's often seen as more of a teacher figure, but in a fanfic, he could enter the Jounin exams. His knowledge of the students and his own ninja skills, which might be underestimated, could give him an edge. He could surprise everyone by using creative teaching - inspired tactics in the battles.
Sasuke would be a very interesting character. His quest for power and his complex personality would add a lot of drama. He might be willing to do whatever it takes to pass the Jounin exam, even if it means going against his friends or the rules.
One possible plot twist could be that a previously underestimated ninja reveals extraordinary skills during the Jounin exams. For example, a shy and quiet character who has been in the background suddenly shows mastery over a rare and powerful jutsu. This would change the dynamics of the competition as other competitors would have to re - evaluate their strategies.
Kakashi could be an obvious choice. He's already a well - known and highly skilled jounin. His Sharingan and his laid - back yet effective teaching style could make for an interesting story as an elite jounin.
Orochimaru. Despite his past as a villain, he could have some knowledge or power that Naruto needs in the tournament. Maybe he has some ancient jutsu that can counter the abilities of opponents from other dimensions. His presence would also add a lot of tension within the team as some members would be very suspicious of him.
Iruka. He's mostly seen as a teacher and not a combat - heavy character. But in fanfiction, he could be given some hidden powers or a special training arc before the tournament. His inclusion would be unexpected because everyone underestimates him, but he could use his knowledge of Naruto and the other ninja to come up with unique strategies in the tournament.
It has to be Spike. He's a small dragon in the My Little Pony world. In Mortal Kombat fanfiction, he could use his ability to breathe fire in really creative ways. He could also use his small size to his advantage, sneaking around and attacking from unexpected angles. His loyalty to the ponies would make him a really determined fighter, which would be quite unexpected considering his usually cute and helpful role in the pony world.
Naruto would be an obvious but still very interesting choice. His journey from an underdog to a potential chunin is full of potential for character development. You can explore his newfound skills and how he uses them in the final. Another interesting character could be Gaara. His dark past and his struggle to control his inner demon could add a lot of depth to the story. He could be a formidable opponent or an unexpected ally in the final.
Maybe he would have mastered some new wind - style jutsus. For example, he could create more complex and powerful wind blades that can cut through even stronger defenses. Since he is at the Jounin level, his chakra control would be much more refined, enabling him to perform these advanced techniques.
Rock Lee is quite popular in 'chunin exams naruto fanfic'. His hard - working and passionate nature, along with his unique fighting style of Taijutsu - only, makes for great storylines. Gaara is another favorite. His complex personality and powerful sand - based jutsu can add a lot of depth to the fanfic, especially when his character is explored during the high - stakes environment of the Chunin Exams.
Kakashi could still be an important ally even though Naruto has become a Jounin. Kakashi has a wealth of experience and knowledge that Naruto could still learn from. He could offer advice and assistance when Naruto faces tough challenges in his new role.