The enduring theory among fans of One Piece regarding the cyclical nature of its world has gained substantial traction, particularly with the latest developments in the Elbaph arc. This storyline has seemingly validated speculations that there were two significant wars against the World Government in the past, leading to the imminent onset of a third conflict.
While the details of these historical epochs remain largely shrouded in mystery, the tension between Imu and Joy Boy has evidently wielded considerable influence over the course of events. It has sparked hypotheses suggesting that Imu might have strategically initiated the Great Pirate Era to accelerate Joy Boy’s emergence. This action could be interpreted as an effort to break the cycle of warfare and renewal that currently binds the world.
Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for the One Piece series.
Exploring the Theories: Was Luffy’s Journey a Manipulation by Imu?
The murals located in Elbaph, in conjunction with the ancient Harley texts, have reinforced the idea of a world entangled in a repetitive struggle between oppressive authority and liberating freedom, personified by Imu and Joy Boy, respectively. Although the specifics surrounding the two prior wars remain elusive, the aftermath reveals that Nika played a pivotal role in transforming the world, either by liberation or destruction—illustrating the complexity of Nika’s true influence.
Despite the numerous threats to Luffy throughout the series, these assassination attempts seem to stem from the Gorosei rather than Imu directly. What complicates matters further is that the Gorosei often act in Imu’s interest without establishing clear lines of communication, raising the question of whether Imu is fully aware of the ongoing schemes against Luffy.
The incident involving Imu and the subsequent “execution”of Saint Saturn following the failed Buster Call at Egghead Island signals that the Gorosei may not be as crucial to Imu’s overarching objectives as previously believed. This raises the possibility that Imu’s ultimate aim is to definitively resolve the conflict with Joy Boy, marking a decisive end to the age-old struggle.
The correlation between the three historical eras and the standard three-act structure of storytelling suggests that the 900-year span from the Void Century to the present could represent Imu’s preparatory phase leading up to an inevitable showdown.
While the earlier encounters between Imu and Joy Boy concluded without a definitive resolution, one could argue that the initiation of the Great Pirate Era was Imu’s way of catalyzing Joy Boy’s rise to power, aimed at finally ending years of conflict following an extensive period of strategic preparation.
Although the repeated efforts to eliminate Luffy cast doubt on Imu’s plans for a culminating confrontation, the evident discord and lack of transparency within the governance structure highlight that even the Gorosei may not possess complete insight into Imu’s intentions.
Looking Ahead
Fans can anticipate the release of chapter 1142 of One Piece on March 9, 2025, which will primarily delve into the Holy Knight’s siege on Elbaph. With Loki’s restraints now loosened from earlier chapters, it appears that the highly anticipated confrontation between Loki and Luffy will soon come to fruition, set against the backdrop of Elbaph facing potential devastation.
- Chapter Release: March 9, 2025
- Key Focus: Holy Knight’s assault on Elbaph
- Potential Clash: Luffy vs. Loki