One Piece boasts numerous pirates, yet curiously lacks a single character sporting an eye patch. This absence is deliberate, as Oda once expressed his intention to reserve that design for a significant pirate. The identity of this mysterious figure remains unconfirmed, with many fans initially suggesting Imu. However, a more compelling theory points to someone deeply entrenched in the lore of the series—a character whose legacy predates Luffy’s journey and still looms large in the Marines’ memories: Rocks D. Xebec. His deliberate obscured identity may soon come into focus, especially with the ongoing saga hinting at more than mere shadows.
Disclaimer: This article presents a speculative theory reflecting the author’s perspective and includes spoilers from the manga.
Could Rocks D. Xebec Be Oda’s Long-Awaited Pirate?
Rocks D. Xebec, known as the Pirate King’s greatest antagonist and captain of the mightiest pirate crew, remains shrouded in mystery. While he is a crucial character in the narrative, Oda’s refusal to disclose his appearance raises eyebrows and adds to the intrigue surrounding him. Remarkably, Rocks has been depicted solely in silhouette during five distinct moments in the manga—chapter 957, again in 1001, during Kaido’s flashback in 1049, in Kuma’s flashback in 1096, and most recently in chapter 1145. Each instance has offered nothing but shadows and no concrete features, contrary to Oda’s usual approach. Typically, such deliberate ambiguity precedes a significant reveal, yet Rocks’ unveiling continues to be postponed.
This pattern suggests that his design may hold monumental importance within the grand narrative of the One Piece world. As time passes, the suspense surrounding his reveal grows more intense, leading to a theory that Rocks might indeed be the “promised pirate”that Oda has long hinted at.
In 2007, Oda made an intriguing statement regarding the portrayal of pirates, specifically mentioning that while many are depicted with eye patches, he has refrained from such a design for any character. He indicated that he was reserving it for the final segment of One Piece, designating this significant figure as the “eye patch pirate.”Although this character has yet to emerge in the story, there is a possibility that he has already appeared without fans realizing it.
Rocks D. Xebec aligns with this concept perfectly. He is the final significant pirate of his era who has not yet been revealed, unlike figures such as Roger, Whitebeard, Shiki, and even Kaido, all of whom have been fully unveiled. Additionally, Rocks’ Jolly Roger features distinct characteristics, including a skull with flames, a possible scar or shadow beneath one eye, and potentially horns. These details could allude to his design and the symbolic meanings behind it.
In the One Piece universe, a character’s Jolly Roger often mirrors their physical attributes. For instance, Luffy’s straw hat, Whitebeard’s mustache, and Shanks’ scars are all reflected in their respective symbols. Therefore, Rocks’ potential scar or eye patch may well be a significant clue, explaining Oda’s reluctance to reveal his full form just yet.
Another aspect contributing to the delay in revealing Rocks could be his affiliation with a unique race. The One Piece world is rich with diverse races, including Lunarians, Fish-Men, and numerous others, each adding layers to the complex history of the series. It’s plausible that Rocks hails from one of these groups, perhaps one that has yet to be introduced. For example, King Harald has been known to remove his horns, indicating that Rocks might have undergone similar alterations. If he is indeed a Lunarian stripped of his wings—or a hybrid of races—his physical form could convey messages far more potent than words.
However, instead of speculating on Rocks’ race, a more significant assertion can be made: if he indeed possesses an eye patch, it would unify all elements of Oda’s narratives—the elusive pirate he had promised, the enigmatic silhouette, and a secret too substantial to unveil until the opportune moment. All indications suggest that Rocks could indeed be the pirate Oda foreshadowed.
It’s essential to differentiate Rocks from Imu, who, despite sharing a vague design, does not exhibit the characteristics of a pirate. Imu seems more aligned with a god-like authority figure rather than one embodying the chaotic essence of piracy. Rocks, in contrast, is remembered for his antagonistic stance against the World Government, his involvement in the catastrophic God Valley Incident, and the terror he instilled in those who recall him. Blackbeard’s ship, named Saber of Xebec, further establishes a direct correlation, suggesting that Blackbeard may be pursuing Rocks’ legacy or objectives.
Additionally, recent interactions with Loki have shed further light on Rocks’ character. There, he is once again depicted in shadow, but Loki’s dialogue hints at a deeper admiration or fear of Rocks, implying that he possessed qualities worthy of respect, whether it be power, heritage, or ideology.
Oda’s decision to obscure Rocks’ identity is not just a device of suspense; it serves to build anticipation for a climactic moment of revelation. When Rocks finally steps into the light, his design—whether it be marked by a scar, an eye patch, or unique features—will carry profound significance within the narrative.
This leads us to propose that Rocks D. Xebec is indeed the promised pirate—the one with the eye patch. Unlike Imu or other characters not fitting the pirate archetype, Rocks represents a historical force shaping the future of One Piece. His silhouette is not merely a fleeting image, but a portent of his inevitable return, which is bound to alter the course of the saga forever.
Concluding Thoughts
Rocks D. Xebec may well be more than just a remnant of a bygone era; he embodies the essence of Oda’s promised pirate—the elusive figure with the eye patch. Accumulated clues suggest a pointed trajectory towards his eventual reveal. The universe of One Piece is rife with his legacy, and the anticipation surrounding his identity remains palpable.
Oda’s deliberate choice to withhold character designs serves a clear purpose. When Rocks emerges fully realized, his attributes could tie together the many threads of the narrative tapestry. As One Piece’s final saga unfolds, fans eagerly await the moment when the stakes truly crystallize—Rocks may very well be the key.