Its like the series is on a whole new level now. when watching that fight the intensity was up, because I knew there was no time to be disrespected by anyone anymore, Naruto is now the Alpha dog and if anyone even lands a hit on him, its a great acomplishment for them as he is probaly the greatest fighter of all time. Even if there are others who don't think so, think of it like this, Itachi and Kisame ran away from Jiraya, I know there were several factors invovled, but work with me here, and then Jiraya was defeated by Pain and we all know Naruto deafeated Pain, even if some consider it a technicality, Naruto has that title and every one will be gunning for him now.

He is now the pride of Konoha and at least when fighting, has to act as such.

And Sai's mouth seal came outta left field...but that was pretty sneaky way to confuse us on to whose side he really is on. And has been on this entire time...