Itachi is superior to orochimaru
There is no real evidence to that at all.
^ I do agree with the thread maker that Naruto and Sasuke tie at the moment, but I have no idea how Hizuren has any chance against anyone on the list, bar, perhaps Jiraiya. There is no way this guy is beating others in the list, let alone EMS Sasuke and BM Naruto. His old ass gets handed to him on a gold platter and he would be able to see it.
A lot of statements. Orochimaru even said that Hiruzen could had won if he were just 10 years younger (60). This was Orochimaru
with arms, Orochimaru without arms could toy around with KN4 and almost beat Sasuke while dying. Orochimaru is a monster.
Hiruzen was stated, even as an old man, to be stronger than Ei, Onoki, Yagura, and Gaara Sr.
Hiruzen said to Tobirama's face that he was stronger.
Danzo said that he couldn't surpass Hiruzen, he was always a step ahead.
Recent chapters called Hiruzen one of the strongest, and could even help create a godly barrier that stopped the Juubidama.
How? Kishimoto just said so.