In One Piece chapter 1058, Crocodile referred to Dracule Mihawk with a sharp title: “Navy Hunter.” This detail immediately sparked intense discussion among fans. Why would the lone hawk-eyed swordsman, the world’s strongest, once hunt down soldiers of the World Government?
The reason was finally revealed by creator Eiichiro Oda in the SBS section of volume 108.
1. A psychological shadow from a shocking betrayal
Although Mihawk’s past hasn’t been officially depicted in the manga, Oda confirmed that his motivation to become the “Navy Hunter” stems from deep hatred and a shocking betrayal.
This pain turned Mihawk into a solitary figure, filled with distrust and exhaustion toward life, much like Crocodile, who never places trust in anyone.
Oda also explained that Mihawk’s acceptance of the Shichibukai (Seven Warlords) invitation was actually a way to find peace and escape the government’s relentless pursuit. After the system was abolished, he chose to stay under the radar by hiding behind the name of Yonko Buggy within the Cross Guild organization.
2. Unanswered mysteries remain
While the psychological background is clear, the core details of the betrayal remain shrouded in mystery. Who stabbed the world’s strongest swordsman in the back? Was it a Navy admiral, or a close friend who sold him out to the government? Oda’s choice to leave this question open only adds to the allure of this cold character.
However, it seems that Mihawk’s flame of hatred has cooled for now. Before the Shichibukai system collapsed, he preferred to live quietly on Kuraigana Island and even agreed to fight alongside the Navy at Marineford. The current Mihawk no longer seeks revenge, he simply wants a peaceful life, a peace the World Government has once again taken away by issuing a bounty on him.