Why Mihawk’s Imu Connection Is Inevitable After Latest One Piece Chapter

Chapter 1181 of One Piece has brought in one of the most fascinating fan theories once again into the spotlight after Imu revealed a black blade-like weapon during his battle against Loki. At first, it looked like just another display of Imu’s overwhelming power, just like the “Omen” we had seen previously; however, it quickly turned into something much deeper, as fans immediately noticed the unsettling resemblance of Imu’s sword to Dracule Mihawk’s sword, Yoru.

In One Piece, Eiichiro Oda often uses such visual parallels and symbolism to give clues. Thus, this one also becomes impossible to ignore. Chapter 1181 itself was filled with major story development, where Loki used his strongest attack but was not able to bring down Imu. Joy Boy’s name was brought into the conflict once again, and it turned the final saga’s ideological theme towards freedom versus domination. However, among all this chaos, the Mihawk connection may have quietly become one of the chapter’s most important long-term mysteries.

One Piece: Imu’s Black Blade Makes Mihawk Theory Hard to Ignore

During the battle against Loki in One Piece Chapter 1181, Imu revealed a huge black blade called Blade of Judgement – Nemesis, and a leap attack that instantly reminded us of Dracule Mihawk and his iconic weapon – Yoru. Mihawk’s blade is considered one of the rarest and most prestigious in the One Piece series, which also represents the peak of swordsmanship.

Thus, seeing Imu using something visually similar has naturally raised eyebrows across the fandom. The similarities do not end there – for years, fans have pointed to both characters sharing the same cold and mysterious aura. For example, Imu hides within the sacred chambers of Pangaea Castle, while Mihawk lives in isolation inside a dark castle of his own. Their thrones even look somewhat similar.

Also, their eyes have a similar kind of pattern, with both possessing an unnatural and intimidating design that sets them apart from everyone else. Thus, with the recent dark blade introduction of Imu, it seems like Oda may be setting up something deeper.

Whether Mihawk is a reflection of Imu, a descendant, or something tied to the World Government’s experiments, the parallels now feel far more intentional than random coincidence.

Chapter 1181 Raises the Stakes for Zoro and Mihawk’s Future Role

Apart from the Mihawk-Imu parallel, Chapter 1181 made one thing clear – defeating Imu will require more than just raw strength. Loki used his full power, including his dragon-like transformation and Thorheim attack, yet Imu remained standing, unfazed. That moment strongly suggests the final enemy cannot be overpowered by strength alone.

And this is where Mihawk and Roronoa Zoro become more relevant. Zoro’s dream is still to surpass Mihawk and become the world’s greatest swordsman. Thus, this could make Mihawk the final obstacle that prepares Zoro for what comes next.

There is also a possibility that Mihawk knows more than he has ever revealed. His calm detachment, mysterious past, and unparalleled swordsmanship may all be connected to the secrets of the World Government.

All in all, Chapter 1181 may be the beginning of Mihawk finally stepping into the main narrative of One Piece rather than remaining a legendary side figure.

Series Title	One Piece
Manga Author	Eiichiro Oda
Chapter 1182 Release Date (US)	May 10, 2026
Manga Rating (Mal) – as of April 29, 2026	9.21 / 10
Where to Read	Manga Plus by Shueisha, Viz Media

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So now the big question – Do you think Mihawk is secretly tied to Imu, or is Oda just baiting the fans once again? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

One Piece manga is currently available to read on Manga Plus by Shueisha.