Naruto Episode 22: Chūnin Challenge: Rock Lee vs. Sasuke!

June 22, 2026 · Anime, Episodes, Naruto

Spoiler note: This episode guide discusses the events of this episode. Major future-series spoilers should be avoided unless clearly marked.

Quick Facts

Episode: Naruto Episode 22
Title: Chūnin Challenge: Rock Lee vs. Sasuke!
Arc: Chunin Exams Arc
Canon/Filler Status: Canon / mostly manga-canon
Original Japanese Air Date: March 6, 2003
Previous Episode: Naruto Episode 21
Next Episode: Naruto Episode 23

Naruto Episode 22 Summary

Naruto Episode 22, “Chunin Challenge: Rock Lee vs. Sasuke!,” follows the episode’s central events with a clearer focus on what actually happens on screen. Rock Lee challenges Sasuke to a one-on-one fight. Naruto grows angry and attacks him, only to be beaten in one attack. Sasuke realizes the challenge and eagerly accepts. But will Sasuke be defeated just as easily by this mysterious ninja? Sasuke's only advantage seems to be his Sharingan, but what happens when not even that will work?

Detailed Episode Discussion

The episode’s main movement is built around this setup: Rock Lee challenges Sasuke to a one-on-one fight. Naruto grows angry and attacks him, only to be beaten in one attack. Sasuke realizes the challenge and eagerly accepts. But will Sasuke be defeated just as easily by this mysterious ninja? Sasuke's only advantage seems to be his Sharingan, but what happens when not even that will work? PopRot readers should watch how the characters respond to the pressure of the moment, because the choices made here are what connect the episode to the larger Naruto storyline.

In practical watch-order terms, “Chunin Challenge: Rock Lee vs. Sasuke!” is not just a title card in the episode list. It marks the specific conflict, reveal, confrontation, joke, rescue, or turning point that the episode wants viewers to remember. The important details to track are who takes action, who gets challenged, and what new information changes the audience’s understanding of the arc.

This recap is written to help fans place Naruto Episode 22 in context without losing the thread of the larger story. If you are moving through Naruto in order, treat this episode as a checkpoint for the current arc’s momentum, character relationships, and next-step setup.

Watch or Skip?

Watch. This episode is part of the core Naruto viewing path and helps move the main story forward.

Where to Watch Naruto Episode 22 Online

Streaming availability changes by country and over time. PopRot links only to official/legal watch options. When an exact episode page is available, use that; otherwise start from the official Naruto series/search page on each service.