This article discusses spoilers from the Elbaf arc of One Piece.
Overview
- Gol D. Roger, the Pirate King, was one of the strongest pirates, comparable only to Whitebeard and Garp.
- The story emphasizes Roger’s unmatched strength and the select few rivals he faced.
- Rocks D. Xebec is suggested to be Roger’s greatest adversary, having defeated him in a past encounter 39 years prior.
Quick Navigation
- The Immense Strength of the Pirate King in One Piece
- The Implication of Rocks D. Xebec’s Victory Over Roger
In the expansive universe of One Piece, the number of characters capable of standing up to formidable opponents like the legendary Gol D. Roger is remarkably small. Creator Eiichiro Oda meticulously illustrates Roger’s journey, showcasing his rise to prominence through an accumulation of wealth, fame, and unparalleled power.
However, it is essential to acknowledge that Roger’s strength was not always at its peak nor invincible. Like many great figures, he encountered setbacks throughout his illustrious career. Subtle hints dropped by Oda during the Egghead Island arc suggest that Roger may have faced defeat, a narrative that is further explored in the current Elbaf arc.
The Immense Strength of the Pirate King in One Piece
- The Pirate King was unmatched in strength.
- Whitebeard and Garp were his only real equals.
Throughout the series, fans have witnessed Roger’s unmatched prowess as a pirate. Only a few characters can be considered his equals in strength—most notably Edward Newgate, also known as Whitebeard, with whom Roger shared many epic battles. Garp, the legendary Marine, is frequently acknowledged as another fierce contender capable of matching Roger’s might, having cornered him on numerous occasions.
Notably, Sengoku has referred to Rocks D. Xebec as Roger’s greatest rival. While it is clear that Roger had formidable allies like Rayleigh and Scopper Gaban who were on par with him, the historical rivalry with Rocks D. Xebec casts a long shadow over Roger’s legacy.
How Rocks D. Xebec is Implied to Have Defeated Roger
The Encounter Between Xebec and Roger One Year Prior to God Valley
The confrontation between Roger and Rocks D. Xebec, pivotal in the lore of One Piece, culminated in their legendary battle at God Valley, where Garp and Roger ultimately triumphed over Rocks. However, it is crucial to note that an earlier face-off occurred just one year before this infamous battle.
During a flashback featuring Kuma, it becomes evident that Roger harbored significant emotional weight from his past encounter with Rocks, hinting at a devastating loss that left him unsettled. His words resonate: “It’s been one year. Do you know how I’ve felt all this time?”This implies that their previous conflict ended unfavorably for him, suggesting that Rocks managed to best Roger in that confrontation.
Further emphasizing this narrative, Sengoku’s assertion that Rocks was Roger’s primary foe—surpassing even Whitebeard—indicates that their history is layered with intense rivalry, likely featuring numerous battles, including a defeat Roger sustained 39 years ago.
Excitingly, fans can anticipate the release of One Piece Chapter 1145, set to debut on April 6, 2025. Fans in Japan can catch it at midnight JST, with international readers accessing it shortly afterward. As always, the chapter will be available for free on Manga Plus.