Naoki Asaba stands as the close childhood friend and primary rival to protagonist Kento Yuki, their enduring competition spanning academic challenges and athletic contests while frequently erupting in arguments and confrontations. This friction arises from Naoki’s intensely competitive, hot-blooded disposition, cementing him as the most temperamental and physically aggressive member of the Web Divers.

During the Deletross virus’s initial takeover of the Magical Gate, Naoki was captured and brainwashed, forcibly becoming the pilot for the dragon-themed Web Knight Draguon. His strong-willed resolve—mirroring Kento’s own determination—rendered him uniquely vulnerable to the virus’s corruption, which weaponized his obsession with defeating Kento. As Draguon’s controlled pilot, he waged prolonged, vicious battles against Kento and Gladion, emerging as their most relentless adversary in that era.

Rescued by Kento and Gladion after his defeat, Naoki regained free will but retained full memories of his brainwashed actions, unlike other freed children. This clarity plunged him into crushing guilt and a Heroic BSoD upon realizing he had nearly caused Kento and Gladion’s absorption by Deletross. Haunted by his deeds, he initially rejected Kento as both friend and rival.

Despite this turmoil, Naoki permanently joined Kento’s team, preserving his bond with Draguon. His resolve faced its nadir during a Despair Event Horizon when Kento and Gladion appeared to perish, driving him to plead helplessly with the still-corrupted Draguon for aid. Across the series, Naoki evolved from a manipulated antagonist into a steadfast ally, harnessing his tenacity and combat prowess for the group’s missions. His arc deconstructs the rival archetype: the competitive drive once exploited against him ultimately forged his role as The Lancer within the team’s dynamic.