One Piece: 7 Characters Luffy Still Has to Defeat Before Becoming Pirate King

Written By: Prajwal Khicha
Category: Anime | Entertainment

Monkey D. Luffy has come a long way from being a young pirate with a simple dream to becoming one of the Four Emperors of the Sea. After awakening Gear 5 and defeating Kaido, Luffy is now closer than ever to claiming the title of Pirate King. However, his journey is far from over. The Final Saga has introduced even greater enemies, and reaching Laugh Tale won't be as simple as sailing to the final island.

To become the next Pirate King, Luffy must overcome some of the strongest and most influential figures in the One Piece world. Some are longtime rivals, while others stand directly in the way of his dream. Each battle will test his strength, leadership, and determination like never before. Here are seven characters Luffy still has to defeat before becoming the Pirate King.

Marshall D. Teach (Blackbeard) – Luffy's Greatest Pirate Rival

Among all of Luffy's enemies, Blackbeard is the biggest obstacle between him and the Pirate King title. Marshall D. Teach is the only known pirate to wield the powers of two Devil Fruits—the Dark-Dark Fruit and the Tremor-Tremor Fruit. His ambition, intelligence, and willingness to betray anyone make him one of the most dangerous pirates alive.

Blackbeard has been built up as Luffy's opposite since the Jaya Arc. While both dream of becoming Pirate King, they follow completely different paths. Their long-awaited battle will likely decide who truly deserves to stand at the top of the pirate world.

Imu – The Hidden Ruler of the World

Imu is the greatest mystery in One Piece. Secretly sitting on the Empty Throne, Imu controls the World Government from the shadows and possesses authority greater than the Five Elders. Very little is known about Imu's true abilities, but the destruction of the Lulusia Kingdom proved that this hidden ruler commands unimaginable power.

If Luffy wants to bring true freedom to the world, defeating Imu may become just as important as finding the One Piece itself. This battle could decide the future of the entire world rather than just the Pirate King title.

Akainu – The Fleet Admiral Waiting for Revenge

Fleet Admiral Sakazuki, better known as Akainu, remains one of Luffy's most personal enemies. During the Marineford War, Akainu killed Portgas D. Ace in front of Luffy, leaving emotional scars that still influence him today.

Now leading the Marines, Akainu represents absolute justice and stands directly against everything Luffy believes in. Their inevitable rematch would not only settle old scores but also symbolize the clash between freedom and oppressive authority.

Saint Figarland Garling – The Holy Knight With Unknown Power

Saint Figarland Garling has quickly become one of the Final Saga's most intriguing characters. As the Supreme Commander of the Holy Knights and a member of one of the most powerful families in the world, Garling represents another terrifying obstacle standing in Luffy's path.

Although his full abilities remain unknown, his position alone suggests that he possesses extraordinary strength. If the Holy Knights become major players in the Final War, Garling could become one of Luffy's toughest battles.

The Five Elders (Gorosei) – The True Protectors of the World Government

For years, the Five Elders appeared to be politicians, but the Egghead Arc revealed that each of them possesses terrifying combat abilities and mysterious Yokai-like transformations. Their overwhelming powers shocked fans and proved they are far more than simple leaders.

Luffy may not defeat every Elder himself, but overcoming the World Government will almost certainly require confronting these powerful figures. They are among the final barriers protecting the current world order.

Shanks – The Final Test of Luffy's Dream

Red-Haired Shanks is Luffy's greatest inspiration and the pirate who gave him the Straw Hat. While they are close friends, many fans believe Luffy and Shanks will eventually clash—not out of hatred, but to prove who is ready to claim the One Piece.

A battle between mentor and student would be one of the most emotional moments in the series. Even if it remains a friendly contest, defeating Shanks could be Luffy's final step toward proving he has surpassed the pirate he admired since childhood.

Buggy – The Unexpected Rival Still Chasing the One Piece

Buggy may seem like comic relief, but he is officially one of the Four Emperors and has openly declared his intention to find the One Piece. Thanks to Cross Guild, he commands powerful allies like Mihawk and Crocodile while continuing to rise through pure luck and determination.

Although Buggy is far weaker than Luffy, his influence and ability to attract followers make him a surprising rival. It's possible that Luffy will need to overcome Buggy's growing organization before reaching the final treasure.

Final Thoughts

Luffy has already defeated legendary opponents like Crocodile, Doflamingo, Katakuri, and Kaido, but his greatest challenges are still ahead. The Final Saga is setting up battles that could change the entire world, with powerful pirates, Marines, Holy Knights, and the mysterious Imu all standing between Luffy and his dream.

To truly become the Pirate King, Luffy must prove that he deserves to stand above every rival while staying true to the values that have guided him since the beginning. If he can overcome these seven obstacles, the Straw Hat Pirates will finally reach the end of the greatest adventure in anime history.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who is Luffy's biggest remaining enemy?

Marshall D. Teach (Blackbeard) is widely considered Luffy's greatest pirate rival and one of the final obstacles to becoming Pirate King.

Will Luffy fight Imu?

While not officially confirmed, many fans believe Luffy will eventually confront Imu during the Final Saga.

Could Luffy fight Shanks?

Yes. Many theories suggest Luffy and Shanks could have a friendly but meaningful battle before the story ends.

Is Akainu still stronger than Luffy?

Akainu remains one of the strongest Marines, but Luffy's Gear 5 has significantly closed the gap, making a future battle highly anticipated.

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Author Bio – Prajwal Khicha

Prajwal Khicha is the Owner and Director of Monds Blogs, where he writes original anime rankings, character analyses, and SEO-friendly articles covering One Piece, Naruto, Dragon Ball, and other popular anime series.