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With the arrival of the new year, the One Piece series is also bracing itself for a drastic change. As the series is gradually reaching its climactic saga, we are witnessing more and more shocking revelations each day. From the baffling events in the fabled land of Elbaf to the retirement of veteran voice actor Kazuki Yao — Eiichiro Oda’s series is now going through an immense shift.
The fabled land of the giants, Elbaf | Credit: Toei AnimationHowever, Eiichiro Oda’s recent message has created a storm of speculations and theories about the manga within the fandom. In Jump Festa 2025, Oda teased a particular man’s arrival that will change the trajectory of One Piece forever. Who is this man Oda referred to? Is it Shanks, Monkey D. Dragon, or Imu? With Elbaf now the central stage, the possibilities seem endless.
Eiichiro Oda’s warning: Jump Festa 2025
In a much-anticipated interview at Jump Festa 2025, Eiichiro Oda once again proved why he is the ultimate master of hype and mystery. While bidding an emotional farewell to Kazuki Yao, the legendary voice actor of Franky, and warmly welcoming Subaru Kimura, the new star stepping into Franky’s role, Oda said to look forward to One Piece‘s new announcement in the new year as well as the anime’s return.
Loki’s appearance is revealed in Elbaf | Credit: Viz MediaHowever, aside from this, what amused the fans was his subtle hints for the manga. Oda casually dropped a teaser that has left fans across the globe in a frenzy. He stated,
As for the manga, at last we have reached Elbaf! Everything seems to be laid-back and all in this country, but the arrival of a certain man will break that calm. Meanwhile, we’ll also see abnormal phenomena happening in the other oceans! That man will finally begin to stir up the world!! Enjoy the breather while you still can, for you may not get a chance to catch your breath again!
These few ambiguous phrases have generated a great deal of discussion among One Piece fans. What does Oda mean by this “certain man”? The possibilities appear limitless now that Elbaf is in the spotlight.
Three notable characters: Shanks, Monkey D. Dragon, and Imu, have recently drawn the attention of many fans. Could Eiichiro Oda be laying the groundwork for some of the most important moments in the series with this event?
The calm before the storm: What does Eiichiro Oda have in store?
Shanks’ connection to Elbaf has long been speculated in One Piece. His mysterious visits to the island and his strong ties to the giants have made him a prominent figure in Elbaf’s lore. Moreover, the recent appearance of Shanks’ look-alike or a possible twin adds further intrigue to this speculation. Could his arrival in Elbaf spell disaster for its tranquility in the ongoing arc?
Shanks’ look-alike in One Piece chapter 1134 | Credit: Viz MediaThe second candidate for the harbinger of chaos could be Monkey D. Dragon. If there is anyone capable of “stirring up the world”, it’s him; the leader of the Revolutionary Army. His long-standing rebellion against the World Government and his mysterious activities make him a prime candidate for Oda’s cryptic hint. Dragon has remained an elusive character throughout the series, and Elbaf could be where he finally takes center stage.
Ultimately, the debate about the implied disaster wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Imu. This enigmatic figure pulling the strings of the World Government is perhaps the most dangerous and intriguing candidate for this. Imu’s presence aligns perfectly with Oda’s mention of “abnormal phenomena” across the seas. As a land of giants and a repository of hidden knowledge, Elbaf could hold secrets that threaten Imu’s dominion, which could lead him to start a large-scale scheme in One Piece.
Regardless of who this “certain man” is, Oda’s statement confirms that Elbaf will be a turning point in the One Piece saga. As the series inches closer to its end, Elbaf might unveil crucial information about the legendary treasure.
One Piece is currently available to read on Viz Media.
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