One Piece Theory: Is Blackbeard Destined to be the Pirate King?

Summary

  • Blackbeard is nearing the title of Pirate King.
  • Luffy’s journey is likely to encounter additional hurdles.
  • Fans are eager for an epic confrontation between Luffy and Blackbeard to determine the true Pirate King.

In the world of One Piece, Luffy’s ambition to become the Pirate King is widely recognized, but he isn’t the only character vying for this illustrious title. As we navigate through the Great Pirate Era, we see a flurry of powerful pirates aiming to seize the One Piece and emulate Gol D. Roger’s legendary legacy. The pursuit of the treasure has transformed into a competitive race among several notorious pirate crews, particularly the Emperors, including Luffy, Blackbeard, and Buggy, each striving to be the first to reach Laugh Tale.

While many fans predict Luffy will eventually realize his goal of becoming the Pirate King, there are growing theories suggesting that another pirate could temporarily take the title before Luffy achieves it. Speculation is particularly focused on Blackbeard, who is expected by many to claim the title in a climactic battle just prior to Luffy’s final triumph.

Blackbeard’s Approach to Finding Laugh Tale

A Viable Contender for Pirate King

Blackbeard Using Gura Gura no Mi

The title of Pirate King is largely symbolic, awarded to the most remarkable pirate of the era rather than conferring specific responsibilities or territories. It was first earned by Roger, who completely navigated the Grand Line and discovered the legendary treasure on Laugh Tale. Essentially, the first pirate to locate Laugh Tale and claim the One Piece will inherit this prestigious title.

As fans are aware, multiple pirate crews are racing to claim the One Piece, leading to various motivations behind their quests. Pirates such as Buggy, Crocodile, Luffy, and Blackbeard are all in pursuit of the title for differing reasons. Currently, Luffy holds a slight edge with three Road Poneglyphs that guide him to Laugh Tale. However, Blackbeard is a formidable rival, having recently acquired Law’s Road Poneglyphs, which places him on equal footing with Shanks in their quest.

Blackbeard’s Shot at the Pirate King Title

Challenges Ahead for Luffy

Blackbeard from One Piece with Red Eyes Clenching His Fist

With Shanks having visited Laugh Tale and apparently uninterested in claiming the Pirate King title, Luffy’s most significant adversary seems to be Blackbeard, the Emperor of the Sea. Despite Luffy’s current lead, there is speculation that his journey to Laugh Tale is fraught with potential setbacks. Thus, it is plausible that another pirate, most likely Blackbeard, could surge ahead in the race.

Fans theorize that Blackbeard may reach Laugh Tale first, establishing himself as the second pirate to conquer the Grand Line and potentially claiming the position of Pirate King. Given Blackbeard’s formidable power and influence, if anyone aside from Luffy is destined to assume the title, it would likely be him. In this scenario, Blackbeard could emerge as a final adversary whom Luffy must vanquish to truly claim the title of Pirate King.

Fan Reactions to Blackbeard’s Potential Victory

The Case for Blackbeard’s Unofficial Title

Blackbeard takes down Boa Hancock.

Conversely, should Blackbeard seize the Pirate King title before Luffy, it risks dampening the story’s conclusion and disappointing many loyal fans. Some envision a scenario where Luffy and Blackbeard arrive at Laugh Tale simultaneously, culminating in an epic showdown to determine who truly deserves the title of King of the Pirates. In this alternate narrative, Blackbeard might achieve temporary dominance by employing underhanded tactics, only to be eventually surpassed by Luffy’s indomitable spirit.

I will be the king!! King Blackbeard! – Blackbeard

Ultimately, while there is a real possibility that Blackbeard could ascend to the title of Pirate King, the consensus among fans leans towards Luffy ultimately achieving his dream first. However, this anticipated victory is likely to be marked by an intense confrontation with either Blackbeard or Imu. Fans can expect more insights into Blackbeard’s motives and the thrilling race for the Pirate King title to emerge following the Elbaf Arc in One Piece.

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