The Elbaf arc in One Piece is steadily reaching its peak, and fans are bracing themselves for one of the most intense confrontations yet. While Oda is currently exploring Loki’s backstory through flashbacks, readers know the upcoming battles will be monumental, involving the Holy Knights and the ultimate authority of the world—the mysterious Imu Nerona.
Although few fans expected it this early in the Final Saga, signs point to Luffy squaring off against Imu in Elbaf. This match-up could mark one of the most dangerous moments in the series for the Straw Hat captain.
Luffy’s strength is undeniable after mastering Gear 5, but facing the final boss so soon is highly risky. Oda may be orchestrating a tragic twist for Luffy in Elbaf, making this arc more than just another battlefield victory for the Straw Hats.
Imu, as the overarching villain, cannot realistically be defeated this early. Narrative logic suggests only two outcomes: the battle is interrupted, or Luffy suffers a crushing defeat.
A defeat scenario seems particularly compelling because it would align with threads Oda set up long ago. Specifically, Luffy’s Vivre Card, which was introduced in Dressrosa, could finally serve its purpose. The Straw Hat Grand Fleet, Bellamy, and Sabo all possess pieces of it, ready to respond if Luffy’s life is ever in danger.
Should Luffy lose and be captured in Elbaf, his Vivre Card burning would rally allies from across the seas, sparking the long-foreshadowed “incident of massive scale” involving the Grand Fleet.
If Luffy’s downfall in Elbaf truly happens, fans may witness a scenario parallel to Marineford only this time, with roles reversed. Instead of Luffy desperately trying to save Ace, it could be the Straw Hat Pirates, the Grand Fleet, and even the Revolutionary Army uniting to rescue Luffy himself.
This setup would elevate the stakes of the Final Saga, proving that even the future Pirate King is not invincible. For Oda, it’s a chance to create another unforgettable large-scale war that will shake the One Piece world to its core.
Sources: gamek
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