Shanks in Grave Danger: Why the Final Saga Aims for His Downfall

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Summary

  • Shanks belongs to a powerful Celestial Dragon family, sparking theories linking him to the Final Saga‘s key events.
  • The Celestial Dragons and Blackbeard could pose the biggest threats to Shanks, leading to his potential downfall.
  • A final battle between Blackbeard and Shanks, possibly resulting in Shanks’ death, may be crucial for Luffy’s arc in One Piece.

Long before Luffy embarked on his grand sea voyage, he harbored dreams of being crowned Pirate King and uncovering the legendary treasure known as “One Piece”. It was Shanks who kindled this enthusiasm within the boy and emerged as his most influential role model and driving force to pursue a life of piracy. Currently, one of Luffy’s strongest yearnings is to reunite with his cherished friend once more.

In the latest phase of the epic saga of “One Piece,” known as the Final Saga, the Elbaf arc has begun, and various plotlines are being neatly tied up. A key reunion, that between Luffy and Shanks, is among the most significant developments. Yet, some enthusiasts hypothesize that Shanks may face the gravest peril in the entire series throughout this Final Saga, so let’s examine this theory and delve into the reasons behind it.

The Celestial Dragons Have It Out For Shanks

A Defector From Marijoa

Garling’s First Appearance One Piece, Chapter 1086, “The Five Elders”
Shamrock’s First Appearance One Piece, Chapter 1134, “The Owl Library”
  • The Celestial Dragons, particularly the Figarlands, have a special connection to Shanks and may want to kill him.

For a long time, fans of “One Piece” had heated discussions about Shanks’ real background. However, it wasn’t until Chapter 1136, during the Elbaf arc, that his connection to the Celestial Dragons was undeniably unveiled. It turned out that he is a member of the influential Figarland family, one of the 20 powerful families among the Celestial Dragons.

In the turmoil of the God Valley Incident, Shanks was taken by the Roger Pirates and was raised under their supervision, despite being the son of the Supreme Commander of the Gods Knights. Following Roger’s execution, Shanks spent two years in Marijoa, but his longing for the surface world led him to leave the Celestial Dragons behind. In contrast to them, he decided to emulate his previous captain and role model, Gol D. Roger, by embarking on a life of piracy.

Given the xenophobic and malevolent nature of the Celestial Dragons, it’s plausible that they perceived this slight as unforgivable, a memory they’ve harbored since then. This is evident in their dismissive treatment of Doflamingo and his kin after they chose to leave the Holy Land. As a result, Shanks, who defied them by disregarding their privilege and choosing to live among the common people they despise, is likely viewed as one of their most hated adversaries by the World Nobles.

With Garling becoming the Science and Defense Elder and Shamrock assuming the position of Supreme Commander for the Gods Knights, it seems that the wrath of the Celestial Dragons is squarely upon Shanks. Given the increased activity of the World Government in the world, many suspect that they will eventually confront the Red Hair Pirates, potentially placing Shanks in great peril against adversaries who are equally formidable in strength.

Blackbeard Could Also Be One Of Shanks’ Greatest Tests

Luffy’s Most Important Idol and Foe May Clash

  • Blackbeard will be Shanks’ greatest enemy from the side of the pirates.

Many fans of the series strongly suspect that Blackbeard and Shanks will play significant roles in the climactic Final Saga. If this prediction holds true, it could validate an age-old theory within the franchise – that Blackbeard will ultimately confront and defeat Shanks, leading to a fierce and potentially fatal showdown between him and Luffy.

Undeniably, there aren’t many apparent links between them, but a confrontation between these characters could significantly impact Luffy’s voyage and the larger narrative. Notably, they contrast remarkably given their past associations with some of the most influential pirates in the story; Shanks being on Roger’s crew and Blackbeard on Whitebeard’s. Intriguingly, author Oda has subtly woven a concept into the story where scars often bind characters together, such as Zoro and Mihawk, or Oden and Kaido.

You’re looking more handsome than ever, Red Hair! That scar suits you nicely!

Many people think that the scar Blackbeard gave to Shanks’ face forms an unbreakable bond between them, given that both characters play significant roles in Luffy’s narrative. While Shanks serves as a major inspiration for Luffy, Blackbeard can be seen as the opposite side of Luffy’s coin due to their numerous similarities.

The idea that Blackbeard ultimately kills Shanks is a popular theory among fans of the series, considering the ongoing quest for the One Piece treasure has begun in earnest. Since this is the climax of the story, it’s expected that major characters like Blackbeard and Shanks will eventually cross paths. Given how pivotal Luffy’s character development is, a confrontation between these two pirates leading to Shanks’ demise could play a crucial role in shaping his destiny, making it plausible although not certain.

One Piece can be streamed on Crunchyroll.

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2025-04-18 18:14