Best One Piece Characters Who Proved Fans Wrong

This list will contain spoilers up to the Egghead Island arc

Summary

Hachi defies expectations by transforming from Arlong’s minion to a cheery chef.
Buckingham Stussy surprises fans with a shocking reveal of her past.
Characters like Bon Clay, Vivi, Koby, Hancock, and Robin reveal unexpected depth and growth.

In the realm of One Piece, people often assume they know a character based on their initial impression, but looks can be deceiving. Over time, many characters have been given certain reputations by fans, leading us to expect a particular outcome for them. However, there are instances when these characters surprise us by revealing aspects that contradict our initial assumptions.

This situation might eventually unveil some captivating revelations and character developments for these particular characters. Although it’s not always pleasant to be found incorrect, in this context, it could be viewed as a positive outcome, since it offers an opportunity for the One Piece characters to display their true potential, disregarding the initial impression they might have given when they were first introduced.

Hachi

From Arlong’s Loyal Servant To A Cheery Takoyaki Chef, Hachi Has Come A Very Long Way

First Appearance: Episode 31

Initially, Hachi is depicted as a lowly worker under the cruel Fishman named Arlong at the start of the tale. Given that the multi-armed swordsman has a limited role in the Arlong Park arc during the early stages, viewers might assume he shares Arlong’s hatred for humans. However, this assumption would be proven wrong as the story progresses.

Initially appearing to wander aimlessly with a false identity, Hachi later reappears at Sabaody as a Takoyaki chef. Unlike his previous stern demeanor at Arlong Park, he now displays a cheerful, amiable, and caring persona. It’s later revealed that the change in Hachi’s character was due to him being associated with a harmful group, but it wasn’t obvious during the early episodes of the series.

Buckingham Stussy

The Crazed Old Hag Turns Out To Be A Former Rocks Pirate

First Appearance: Episode 752

Whenever she makes an entrance in the narrative, it’s not uncommon for Stussy to be commanding a towering figure known as Weevil, instructing him to eliminate anyone perceived as a danger. Despite her professed admiration for the revered Whitebeard and her self-proclaimed role as his mother, some spectators suspect that her devotion might merely be a ruse, intended to maintain control over her formidable subordinate.

To everyone’s astonishment, however, it’s uncovered that Stussy had a close relationship with Whitebeard years ago, and even traveled with the Rocks Pirates during their heyday. This isn’t the end of the revelations, as she also got entangled with the MADS team of scientists, demonstrating her significant role in the One Piece lore, far greater than anyone could have anticipated.

Bon Clay

Bon Clay Goes From A Thorn In The Straw Hats’ Side To A Lovable Ally

First Appearance: Episode 78

Initially recognized by the name Mr. 2, Bon Clay was among Crocodile’s henchmen operating within Baroque Works. Consequently, he often served as a secondary adversary during the Alabasta saga. Utilizing his shapeshifting powers bestowed by the Devil Fruit, he would deceive his enemies, transforming into various individuals to throw them off guard before striking. For instance, he changed himself into Nami to prevent Sanji from hitting him.

Initially, it seemed probable that Bon Clay would vanish after Baroque Works disbanded, similar to other members. However, things didn’t unfold as expected. Bon Clay reappeared during the Impel Down arc a while later in the series. Interestingly, the intimidating and sinister character he portrayed in Alabasta was just an act. In truth, Bon Clay is one of the most altruistic characters in the whole series, even going as far as sacrificing himself to allow Luffy to break out from the prison.

Vivi

Vivi Is Revealed To Be Much More Important Than Anyone Expected

First Appearance: Episode 62

In retrospect, it might be surprising given Vivi’s current alliance with the Straw Hats, but at one time, she was indeed their adversary. This revelation takes us back to Whiskey Peak, where Vivi, then known as Miss Wednesday, was on a mission to destroy an innocent whale named Laboon. Thankfully, Luffy and his crew intervened before she could carry out her plan. At this juncture in the tale, many antagonists had been introduced only to be defeated soon after, so it wouldn’t have been unexpected if Vivi had followed suit.

Though fans might have initially thought Vivi was just another antagonist, they were in for a surprise. As the princess of Alabasta, she found herself joining forces with the Straw Hats to prevent her country from being devastated by civil war. This temporary alliance made Vivi appear as if she could be easily defeated by Luffy and Zoro, but it turned out that she was actually royalty, adding depth and complexity to her personal story that exceeded all expectations.

Koby

Koby Didn’t Remain A Sniveling Errand Boy For Very Long

First Appearance: Episode 1

Initially, Oda set the One Piece narrative with just two main characters: Luffy and Kobe. Unlike Luffy, who was enthusiastic and brave, ready for a grand journey, Kobe started off as a timid and feeble errand boy, seemingly unfit to become a marine. In fact, it would be an understatement to say he proved the fans wrong; his eventual progress in the marines was far beyond what anyone could have anticipated.

Following rigorous tutelage under Garp, Kobe swiftly climbed the hierarchy at an astonishing speed. This rapid ascent led him to engage in the Marineford War and ultimately earn the prestigious title of honorary member of SWORD. At first glance, Kobe didn’t appear to be a promising character; however, his dedication to hard work allowed him to surpass all preconceived notions about his potential.

Boa Hancock

Hancock Proves Herself To Be A Lot Different From The Other Shichibukai

First Appearance: Episode 409

Prior to Luffy encountering Boa Hancock on Amazon Lily, he had previously crossed paths with several Warlords. Despite their distinct aims and skills, they all shared the characteristic of being merciless pirates, eager to eliminate anyone who dared oppose them. Given this, when Hancock was eventually presented, both Luffy and viewers assumed she would be like her counterparts. This assumption proved accurate initially, as Hancock orders her sisters to assault Luffy shortly after he awakens on her island. However, this initial impression doesn’t last long.

When Hancock finally has a conversation with Luffy, she appears to be remarkably empathetic among all the Warlords, even revealing her heart-wrenching past as a slave to someone she barely knows. Hancock underscores the fact that each of the Warlords, despite serving under the Marines, perceive their roles differently and have unique identities hidden beneath their public personas.

Nico Robin

Robin Was Hard to Trust When She First Joined The Crew

First Appearance: Episode 67

Initially, Robin may have been very close to Crocodile, but when she chose to sail with Luffy’s crew, some spectators remained wary of her real motives. Given her fascination with the Will of D, it wasn’t far-fetched to think that she was merely traveling with them to collect data, intending to eventually deceive the crew. This suspicion is reinforced by her seemingly mysterious disappearance at the start of the Water 7 storyline, which could imply that she was only exploiting the Straw Hats for personal advantages.

Absolutely, it’s common knowledge among One Piece enthusiasts that this statement contradicts the series. The specifics about Robin and her past aren’t unveiled until later in the Enies Lobby arc. With her homeland destroyed by the Marines and the World Government constantly pursuing her, Robin yearned for companions who could be friends or family, demonstrating to fans that she was so much more than just a leftover member of Crocodile’s spy team.

2025-08-06 08:34