This article contains spoilers from the Elbaf arc of One Piece.
Overview
- Oda teases larger threats beyond the Holy Knights in the Elbaf arc.
- Luffy, Zoro, and Sanji are anticipated to engage in significant confrontations ahead.
- An alliance of giants is forming against the Holy Knights, paving the way for an epic conflict.
Navigation
- Why The Holy Knights Are Not The Real Elbaf Villains
- Oda Has Not Yet Unveiled the Most Formidable Threats in the Arc
The Elbaf arc of One Piece becomes increasingly thrilling with each release, and fans are eager for Oda to unveil even greater threats lurking on the horizon. Currently, Elbaf is embroiled in conflict with the formidable Celestial Dragon fighters, known as the Holy Knights or God’s Knights.
This elite group poses a substantial danger, with their mission aimed at the complete subjugation of Elbaf. Currently, prominent members like Saint Rimoshifu Killingham, Saint Shepherd Sommers, and Gunko dominate the area. Although their threat is grave, especially given their use of children as hostages, it has become evident that they are not the primary villains of this arc, hinting at larger challenges that await the Straw Hats.
Why The Holy Knights Are Not The Primary Villains of Elbaf
- The Holy Knights Encounter Hefty Resistance from the Straw Hats and Giants in the Sun World
- Luffy, Zoro, and Sanji Remain Detached from Current Conflicts
For some time, it was widely believed that the Holy Knights would emerge as the principal antagonists of the Elbaf arc. This assumption was understandable, particularly when Shamrock Figarland was part of their ranks. However, once Shamrock departed Elbaf, their position seemed less solid. With the formidable Giant Warrior Pirates opposing them—led by co-captains boasting a combined bounty of 3.6 billion berries, not to mention the Straw Hat Pirates and the New Giant Warrior Pirates—the Holy Knights face insurmountable odds. Additionally, Elbaf is home to the legendary Scopper Gaban, a former Roger Pirate, further complicating their mission.
“Together, with your collective powers, you can turn this into a game!” — Shamrock Figarland
It is apparent that the resources at the disposal of the Holy Knights will likely fall short against such a vast assembly of strength, which is why Oda strategically placed the Monster Trio apart from the conflict occurring in the Sun Realm.
As revealed in One Piece chapter 1144, Oda is skillfully organizing the battle factions, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter. The Giant Warrior Pirates are now facing off against the Holy Knights and their beasts. Joining the fray is Scopper Gaban, alongside Collun, who has rallied the Straw Hat Pirates to the battlefield. A major conflict is imminent.
“Let us fight too. Human-sized enemies should be dealt with by us. You can handle the bigger foes.” — Jinbe
Gaban possesses immense power, as do Dorry and Brogy. While the Straw Hats may not be the strongest, they are poised to provide essential support, suggesting that a monumental war is on the brink of unfolding in the Sun Realm. Notably, this conflict will likely exclude the Monster Trio, indicating that their significant battles lie further ahead in this arc.
Oda Has Not Yet Unveiled the Most Formidable Threats in the Arc
Luffy, Zoro, and Sanji Stand Ready for Greater Challenges
It’s clear that Luffy, Zoro, and Sanji will soon engage in the most daunting battles of the Elbaf arc. However, their current absence from the immediate conflicts is unexpected; these three typically lead the charge. Their non-involvement suggests Oda has designed even more formidable confrontations for them in the near future.
The Holy Knights have formidable opponents ahead, particularly with Scopper Gaban joining the skirmish. As the battle progresses, they may be compelled to retreat, while Luffy, Zoro, and Sanji remain stationed in the Underworld, where a confrontation with Loki seems improbable due to his recent injuries.
This indicates that the Holy Knights in the Sun World may not represent the ultimate threat. Either they will return with reinforcements like Shamrock, or Oda may introduce an even greater menace that the Straw Hat Pirates will have to contend with in the Elbaf arc, once the current conflict concludes. All that remains is for fans to stay tuned and await Oda’s revelations regarding the arc’s true antagonists.
One Piece is available for reading through Viz Media. Fans can access the series officially, free of charge, on both the Shonen Jump and Manga Plus platforms. Mark your calendars for the release date of the next chapter, set for March 30, 2025.