Shanks to Be Luffy’s Final Obstacle

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

Summary

  • Shanks is not a true villain but will stand in Luffy’s way to test him.
  • Shanks aims to stop Luffy from reaching the One Piece and be his final obstacle.
  • Shanks vs. Luffy battle will likely occur on Lodestar Island for access to the One Piece.

Fans of “One Piece” have eagerly anticipated the meeting between Luffy and Shanks since the series first started. You see, Shanks was the one who ignited Luffy’s dream of piracy years ago, and he remains a role model for Luffy even now. Furthermore, Luffy vowed to return Shanks’ straw hat, but only after he surpasses Shanks and his crew in strength and ability.

Even though Luffy has already reached the rank of Yonko, he hasn’t yet surpassed Shanks. Their long-awaited confrontation is drawing near, and when it occurs, it could determine who ultimately lays claim to the One Piece. Interestingly, Shanks is pursuing the One Piece himself at this moment, making him a potential adversary for Luffy in the climactic story arc.

Understanding Shanks’s Role as A “Villain”

  • Shanks isn’t a real villain with evil intentions
  • Shanks’s Goal Is To Test Luffy

In essence, it might be a bit of a misnomer to label Shanks as a villain on Luffy’s journey. He harbors no ill will towards Luffy and, in fact, Luffy looks up to him greatly. However, the current dynamic between them has changed due to recent events. After Luffy defeated Kaido, Shanks publicly declared his intention to pursue the One Piece. This signifies that although Shanks doesn’t wish to harm Luffy maliciously, he now positions himself as a competitor.

Hey Beck, it’s time to go and claim the One Piece, don’t you think? — Shanks to Ben Beckman

In the story, Shanks intends to prevent Luffy from reaching the One Piece, aiming to seize the treasure for himself instead. To Luffy, anyone who gets in the way of his goal is a villain, and that certainly includes Shanks. However, it’s important to note that Shanks’ actions will be portrayed as antagonistic throughout the story arc he appears. Yet, it should be understood that Shanks is merely putting on a show. Beneath the surface, Shanks understands his significant responsibility isn’t to claim the One Piece but rather to test Luffy and prepare him for what lies ahead.

Why Shanks Will Be Luffy’s Final Test Before The Great War Begins

Shanks Will Stand In Between Luffy and The One Piece

Shanks is the pirate who initially inspired Luffy’s quest for the One Piece. Given this, it’s logical to assume that Shanks will be waiting for him at the end of his voyage. However, there’s a crucial point to note: Shanks doesn’t intend to seize the One Piece for himself, or so it seems; he might have chosen not to pursue it until now. If Shanks had wished to obtain the One Piece, he would have done so much earlier.

I’ve decided to take a different path. I won’t be pursuing the One Piece right away, at least not at this moment. (Referring to Shanks and Buggy from the anime/manga series “One Piece”)

Ever since Roger’s passing, I found myself drifting away from Shanks, not due to any personal disagreement, but because his decision not to pursue the One Piece left me disenchanted. It was clear that Roger’s words had profoundly affected Shanks, giving him a new direction in life. Where once he dreamt of setting sail for the Final Island himself, now, he is determined to guide the next Pirate King towards their destiny.

Shanks Vs Luffy Will Happen On Lodestar Island

In the captivating world of “One Piece,” the anticipated showdown between Shanks and Luffy promises to be nothing short of extraordinary – a statement that requires no further elaboration from fans. While it’s evident that Shanks currently wields immense power, there’s no doubt in anyone’s mind that Luffy will eventually match his strength.

As fate would have it, Shanks will be positioned on Lodestar Island, the final island of the Grand Line, when Luffy makes his grand arrival. It is here where these two formidable forces will collide, with victory granting access to the last Road Poneglyph – a key that unlocks the secrets of the “One Piece” itself.

Absolutely, supporters would certainly wish for Luffy to emerge victorious in the battle and set sail towards Laugh Tale. Yet, should this not occur, then it is Shanks who holds the vital clue to unlocking the mystery of One Piece.

One Piece’s next chapter, number 1146, is coming up real soon, likely by the end of this week. As we always do, expect it to be released on Sunday. For our Japanese readers, that means 12AM JST on Monday. But for most international fans like us, the chapter will become available on April 20th. The official release date for One Piece Chapter 1146 is indeed April 20, 2025. Excitingly, you can read this chapter free of charge on Manga Plus!

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2025-04-10 01:54