3 Years After Luffy Vs Kaido, Oda Has Finally Set Up One Piece’s Biggest Fight

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This article contains spoilers from One Piece’s Elbaf arc.

One Piece stands out among other Shonen series. While it does feature battles, creator Eiichiro Oda has repeatedly said he wanted to move away from the focus on constant, large-scale fights that were common in series like Dragon Ball. Instead, he prioritized adventure as the core of his story. Even so, battles remain a significant and beloved part of One Piece.

The most recent major fight in One Piece was Luffy’s battle against Kaido, concluding the Wano Country Arc. Now, it’s becoming clear that the author, Oda, is building towards another huge conflict, but this time, Luffy won’t be the central figure. This upcoming battle isn’t expected to be the one in Elbaf; instead, it’s a fight that will trigger irreversible events. The main conflict will be between Blackbeard and Shamrock Figarland, the newly introduced twin brother of Shanks.

After Luffy vs Kaido, Oda Has Officially Set Up Blackbeard Vs Shamrock Figarland

It’s well-known that the creator of One Piece, Oda, frequently echoes themes and events from the earlier part of the story in the later New World saga. Several arcs share striking similarities – for example, the Dressrosa and Arabasta storylines. We also see parallels in key character events: Ace’s capture by Blackbeard in the first half mirrors Garp’s capture by the Blackbeard Pirates in the second half.

Man, seeing you here, Red Hair, is… satisfying! That scar of yours? It suits you. But listen, this isn’t about a fight right now. Not today. I’ve already gotten what I came for. — That’s what Blackbeard said to Shanks during the Marineford arc, and it still gives me chills!

As a huge fan, I’ve noticed Oda loves mirroring moments in One Piece, and it’s so cool to see! Early on, the clash between Ace and Blackbeard was massive – it really kicked off a whole new era. That fight ultimately led to the huge Paramount War, which completely changed everything in the One Piece world. It’s a pivotal moment, and seeing how Oda sets things up is just brilliant!

The most important upcoming conflict is between Blackbeard and Shamrock. Blackbeard is currently preparing a large-scale operation, and he’s tasked Lafitte with setting something significant up at UMIT Shipping Port. This port is located right by the Red Line, putting it relatively close to Marijoa.

Blackbeard to Lafitte in the One Piece story: “Lafitte, are we set? Stop hesitating and get things prepared – it’s time to leave.”

He probably wants to negotiate with the World Government to secure Garp’s release. However, the Holy Land is currently under attack, and Blackbeard is the most likely attacker. It seems he used the offer of negotiation as a distraction to launch a surprise attack.

Okay, so right after Shamrock set off for Elbaf, things went crazy! He got pulled back immediately because something huge happened in the Holy Land. It’s pretty obvious they needed him to rush back and deal with whoever attacked – and honestly, if it turns out it was Blackbeard, then we’re looking at a massive showdown! It feels like Oda’s been building up to a Blackbeard versus Shamrock fight for a while now, and it would be epic!

Shamrock And Blackbeard Could Hold The Same Ambition

Fans believe Blackbeard shares a core ambition with his father, Rocks: to conquer the entire world and overcome Imu. Achieving this requires a strike against the Holy Land, and it’s possible he’s already begun that attack.

I’m absolutely fascinated by the warriors of Elbaf! Legend says they once ruled the New World, and honestly, I think the World Government really wants that power for themselves. Shamrock said it to Gunko, and it just feels so significant for what’s coming in the Elbaf arc – it’s like they’re desperate to control everything Elbaf represents!

It won’t be easy for him, though, as the Holy Knights and the Five Elders will likely try to stop him. Shamrock Figarland was brought back specifically to deal with a threat like Blackbeard. However, Shamrock is also a crucial character in the Final Saga, and Oda intentionally emphasized him in a key panel of One Piece.

This suggests Shamrock’s role is bigger than simply helping Imu. It’s likely Shamrock will eventually turn against Imu, adding a compelling layer to his story.

Blackbeard Will Triumph Over Shamrock

If Shamrock and Blackbeard fought, Blackbeard would almost certainly win. Shamrock isn’t important to anyone – Shanks wouldn’t bother to help him, and the World Government sees people as expendable. Therefore, it’s more likely that Shamrock would betray the World Government and go his own way.

He might even do something incredibly surprising, like teaming up with Blackbeard, which would completely shake things up. It’s going to be fascinating to see what Oda does with this character as the story reaches its conclusion.

Eiichiro Oda’s popular manga, One Piece, follows Monkey D. Luffy and his crew, the Straw Hat Pirates, as they search for the legendary treasure, the One Piece. The story is currently in its final arc. The latest chapter, 1168, will be released in this week’s Weekly Shonen Jump on December 7, 2025. In Japan, it becomes available at midnight on Monday, which is 11:00 AM Eastern Time and 8:00 AM Pacific Time. Fans can read the chapter for free on Manga Plus and the Shonen Jump app, and reading through these official platforms is a great way to support the creator.

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2025-12-05 15:35