One Piece: Oda Has Already Revealed How Elbaf Will End, And Shanks Will Play A Huge Role In It

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Summary

  • Elbaf arc will end with a massive battle against the Gods’ Knights.
  • The remaining Gods’ Knights are likely to invade Elbaf to recruit Giants for the Final War.
  • Shanks might have a significant role in Elbaf, including a battle against Shamrock.

Since the beginning of the One Piece series, Elbaf has been eagerly anticipated as the most significant arc in the entire narrative. It was initially hinted at in Little Garden as the home of the Giants, where Dorry and Brogy originated, and it has played a crucial role in both Luffy’s and Usopp’s personal stories. At present, the Straw Hat crew has finally arrived at this legendary land, and the plot is developing rapidly.

Despite this, many think that Oda may have subtly hinted at how this arc could end and, more importantly, how it could bleed into the inevitable Final War of One Piece. Admittedly, many of the connections and hints to be made here do seem far-fetched, but when looked at together, all of them make sense. So in this article, let’s go over how Elbaf will likely end and why Shanks will have a way bigger role in this arc than previously thought.

The Battle At The End Of Elbaf Will Be A Massive One

The Final Battle Against The Gods’ Knights

Arc Start One Piece, Chapter 1126, “Settling the Score”
Debut Date September 16, 2024

The Elbaf storyline began towards the end of 2024, and as I write this, many viewers consider it to be just beginning due to its current 20-chapter count. However, despite its early stage, significant advancements and unveilings have already taken place. Key among these are the disclosure of the actual history of the First and Second Worlds, the emergence of Loki and his Devil Fruit, and Shamrock’s appearance, which supports a popular theory about Shanks.

It was widely assumed among fans that the Gods’ Knights would turn out to be the main antagonists in the Elbaf arc from the start, and so far, this prediction appears to be holding true. What’s peculiar, though, is the swiftness at which the final confrontation against our adversaries seems to be progressing, given the significance of this arc and the involvement of major characters worldwide. However, it seems that only three Gods Knights have appeared on the island thus far, with Scopper seemingly dealing decisively with St. Sommers in a relatively short time.

It seems more plausible that Oda’s statement is a distraction (Red Herring), as it’s probable that the climax of the Elbaf arc will instead involve an attack by the remaining Gods’ Knights, leading to a major conflict. This assumption arises from the fact that the goal of the Gods’ Knight was to enlist the giants of Elbaf into the World Government’s army for the Final War, thereby gaining control over the island and its vast knowledge about the Void Century, which is crucial for preserving such valuable information.

Despite the World Government thinking that a handful of Gods’ Knights would suffice, they hadn’t factored in the presence of the Straw Hats or Scopper. Given the island’s significance to their grand scheme for the Final War, it’s reasonable to assume they’ll go to great lengths to complete the mission. This aligns thematically as well, considering the heroes currently outmatch the villains in terms of power.

Long time no see.

This situation arises due to Scopper having rendered St. Sommers powerless by using an unknown ability that stopped his healing capabilities. Despite the strength of Gunko, Kilingham, and Sommers, they are no match for the combined might of the Monster Trio, Scopper, Loki, the Giants, and the remaining Straw Hats. To have a fighting chance, the remaining 6 Gods’ Knights must make an appearance here, as this would escalate the battle significantly in their favor.

From my perspective, the Egghead saga was a strategic move by Oda to demonstrate the might and skills of the Five Elders, the Admirals, and the Pacifistas. This way, their powers wouldn’t seem out of place during the Final War. In much the same way, Elbaf could present an ideal platform for revealing the prowess of the Gods Knights and their abilities, underscoring why they are regarded as the elite fighting force of the World Government.

How Shanks Will Likely Also Make His Appearance On Elbaf

How He Fits Into The Equation

  • Elbaf is the perfect opportunity to bring Shanks more to the forefront.

If the Gods’ Knights eventually arrive at the island, it would put the Straw Hats in a difficult situation. To address this, Luffy’s long-anticipated meeting with Shanks might take place on Elbaf instead. Here, the mentor and student could unite their forces to defeat Shamrock and the Gods’ Knights. This encounter would significantly enhance the storyline, making it even more impactful.

For quite some time now, a widely held belief among fans posits that Shanks and Luffy will eventually face off, either during their quest to become the Pirate King or more plausibly, as a climactic test for Luffy to determine if he’s worthy of carrying on the legacy left by Roger. It goes without saying that Shanks is immensely powerful, and when he makes his entrance on Elbaf, it’s highly probable that he’ll engage in combat with Shamrock – a battle that could prove pivotal for the series. Nonetheless, there’s a possibility that the storyline might culminate in a confrontation between Shanks and his protégé instead.

One Piece can be streamed on Crunchyroll.

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2025-05-25 16:44