Forget Usopp, Oda Sets Up The Most Important Straw Hat Of One Piece’s Elbaf Arc

by

The Elbaf arc in One Piece is already shaping up to be one of the most thrilling arcs in a long time. While many members of the Straw Hat crew are having exciting moments, all eyes were on Usopp, as fans predicted he’d truly come into his own during this storyline.

Usopp was immediately fascinated by the island of Elbaf and its warrior traditions after meeting Dorry and Brogy. He’s dreamed of visiting Elbaf and becoming a renowned warrior ever since. However, as the story in Elbaf unfolds, Usopp hasn’t been performing well. Meanwhile, Brook has stepped up and become a standout performer in this arc.

Elbaf Was Supposed To Be Usopp’s Arc In One Piece

Usopp Has A Deep Connection To The Land Of The Giants

When the story moved to the Elbaf arc in One Piece, all the focus was on Usopp, as this location was particularly important to him. He previously shared in the Little Garden arc that he dreamed of living and dying among the Giants of Elbaf, and hoped to one day visit their homeland. Usopp’s ambition to become a Brave Warrior of the Sea is directly connected to traveling to Elbaf and earning a reputation as a proud warrior alongside the Giants.

From the beginning of One Piece, it was obvious that Usopp’s story would eventually focus on the island of Elbaf. When it was confirmed that the Straw Hats would travel there, Usopp’s role became important again. However, so far, Elbaf hasn’t been a good arc for his character. After some initial excitement – like crying when they arrived and celebrating with the Giants – he was quickly defeated by one of the Holy Knights. For over a year of the arc’s run, Usopp hasn’t really contributed much. While he may still have a significant role to play later, it’s clear Brook is going to be the most important Straw Hat during this arc.

I want to visit Elbaf one day and become a Brave Warrior like the Giants! — Usopp

Brook Has Stolen The Show In Elbaf So Far

Brook Is Directly Connected To Gunko

Many fans assumed Brook would have a minor role in the Elbaf arc, but he’s surprisingly become a key player. This is largely due to his connection with Gunko, a Holy Knight. When the Holy Knights attacked Elbaf, they encountered the Straw Hat Pirates, and it was revealed that Brook and Gunko knew each other from the past. Brook even remembers spending time with her, which connects to his backstory – before joining the Straw Hats, he led a military convoy for a kingdom. It’s clear he met Gunko during that time.

Chapter 1173 of One Piece revealed that “Gunko” is just a nickname for a Holy Knight named Shuri, also known as the “father-killing princess.” Shuri actually killed her own father—the man who once helped Brook—which is why Brook strongly dislikes her. But there’s more to the story than just that simple act of revenge.

You’re Princess Shuri, aren’t you? How can you still be alive? — Brook

I learned through a flashback that Shuri actually loved her father and never intended to harm him. It seems likely something else was at play when he died – either he was somehow controlled by the power of Domi Reversi, or Shuri was manipulated in some way. Interestingly, Brook doesn’t seem to know any of this, suggesting Shuri still deeply cares for him and is hiding something.

In the last chapter, Brook contacted Shuri, which led to the release of all the Straw Hat pirates. They owe their freedom – and their lives – to Brook’s actions, as they would have remained imprisoned and ultimately perished without his help. But Brook is capable of even more than just this.

Brook Will Be Key In Beating Imu

Brook’s Music Could Help Cleanse Imu From Gunko

Brook shares a significant history with Princess Shuri, which will be revealed later in the story. His words have a powerful effect on her, causing her lost memories to resurface. In Chapter 1173 of One Piece, Shuri briefly regained her memories, enabling her to release Brook and the others from their confinement. Realizing she couldn’t resist Imu’s control forever, she desperately urged Brook to escape.

If Brook continues to question Shuri, she’ll likely become unstable again, leading to a conflict between Brook and Imu over her mind. The winner of that struggle will control Shuri. If Imu wins, Gunko will take over and destroy Elbaf. But if Brook wins, Shuri will probably regain control of her own body, and Imu will be forced out.

Brook Will Be The MVP Of Elbaf

Brook Is The Most Important Straw Hat In Elbaf

It’s obvious that Imu is far too strong for Luffy to beat, even with Loki’s assistance. The only real chance of defeating Imu lies with Brook. Princess Shuri is a fan of Soul King’s music, and if Brook performs, he might be able to connect with her soul. This connection could allow Shuri to break free from Imu’s control and essentially exorcise Imu from her body. This would allow Brook to unexpectedly defeat Imu and become the hero of this story arc.

Luffy, Loki, Zoro, and Sanji are all likely to have significant roles in the upcoming Elbaf arc, and other members of the Straw Hat crew will get their chances to shine too. Usopp, in particular, will demonstrate his strength and honor, showing what he’s learned from Dorry and Brogy. However, Brook is expected to be the central figure of this arc, and fans are eagerly anticipating learning about his past – especially his connection to the princess he once loved.

One Piece chapter 1174 will officially come out on February 15, 2026.

Read More

2026-02-13 23:36