This article features spoilers pertaining to the Elbaf arc of One Piece.
Overview
- Rocks D. Xebec was recognized as a formidable pirate, even surpassing Roger, Whitebeard, and Garp, until his demise at God Valley 38 years ago.
- There is speculation that the next Joy Boy, presumed to be Luffy, will exceed Rocks D. Xebec in power and abilities.
- The eagerly awaited One Piece Chapter 1146 is set to be released on April 20, 2025, promising further revelations about Rocks D. Xebec.
In the vast universe of One Piece, certain pirates have risen to the forefront, notably Rocks D. Xebec, who commanded the Rocks Pirates over 40 years ago. This notorious figure remains shrouded in mystery, but creator Eiichiro Oda is gradually unveiling his story, hinting at a significant role in the series’ concluding chapters.
What Makes Rocks D. Xebec a Combat Legend?



- Rocks D. Xebec was reputedly stronger than Roger, Whitebeard, and Garp.
- His downfall occurred 38 years ago at God Valley.
Rocks D. Xebec’s first introduction to fans came in Chapter 957 of One Piece. During this chapter, Sengoku illuminated the legacies of pivotal pirate figures and detailed the bounties of active pirates, including the legendary duo, Roger and Whitebeard. He also highlighted Rocks’ fierce dominance over the seas approximately 40 years ago, emphasizing his notorious reputation for breaking societal taboos.
“Rocks was Roger’s first and most formidable adversary!” — Sengoku to the Marines
Rocks’ unparalleled strength made him a nearly invincible adversary; even Roger struggled to defeat him without assistance. It is well-known among fans that Whitebeard served under Rocks at one point, and despite the Navy’s assertions, Garp’s victory over Rocks was a team effort. Ultimately, 38 years ago, at God Valley, Rocks fell to a united front of Roger and Garp, resulting in the disappearance of both the island and all traces of Rocks D. Xebec.
The Pirate Set to Surpass Rocks D. Xebec
Multiple Pirates with the Potential to Surpass Rocks



In the pantheon of piracy in One Piece, Rocks D. Xebec stands as a towering figure, with eye-witness accounts underscoring his strength, placing him among the top five pirates in history. However, the consensus may lean away from Rocks being the ultimate strongest. Historical context suggests that Joy Boy’s abilities eclipsed even Rocks’. Joy Boy wielded Haki powerful enough to incapacitate Vice Admirals and instill fear in the Five Elders, marking him as distinctively powerful in the world of One Piece.
“As long as I’m alive, I have infinite chances.” — Luffy to Kaido
The narrative strongly indicates that the future embodiment of Joy Boy—most likely Luffy—will surpass Rocks D. Xebec. Additionally, characters like Blackbeard may also be on the trajectory to outperform him, motivated by a desire to ascend to the same legendary status that Rocks held. Ultimately, however, Luffy’s character arc suggests he will exceed Joy Boy in every measurable way. With Luffy’s formidable Devil Fruit powers and evolving Haki, it is plausible to claim that he will rise above Rocks D. Xebec.

As the Elbaf arc unfolds, fans are eager for more revelations regarding Rocks D. Xebec’s legacy. The much-anticipated Chapter 1146 is scheduled for release on April 20, 2025. In Japan, it will become available at 12 AM JST on Monday, while international audiences can expect to read it on that date. To keep up with the latest chapters, fans can visit Manga Plus.