Following the intense events of chapter 1186 where Luffy confronted Imu directly at Elbaf, the latest leaks for One Piece chapter 1187 promise to ignite the fan community. Creator Eiichiro Oda is officially launching one of the most pivotal battles in the entire series with the striking chapter title: “Ringleader.”
Fun Germa 66 Cover Art
Before the thrilling action unfolds, this week’s cover delivers a hilarious illustration centered on the Vinsmoke family. Fans see Reiju protecting a black duck with Sanji’s signature eyes and hairstyle from the rest of the siblings and their father. The other ducklings resemble the Vinsmoke siblings, while the duck father sports Judge’s trademark hat.
Imu’s Terrifying Magical Power and Loki’s Fate
Back on the Elbaf battlefield, immediately after taking a hit from Luffy in the previous chapter, the mysterious World Government king strikes back. Imu releases a powerful energy called Omen from both hands, targeting Luffy and Loki.
Loki is pinned to a massive block of ice that seems unbreakable. Yet, wielding the giant hammer Ragnir, he shatters the ice, proving he’s still fighting fiercely against the world’s strongest entity.
Imu then unleashes a grotesque and terrifying new attack. A strange talking flame appears on Loki’s chest. Imu fires a giant magical sword through the giant prince’s body, striking the flame directly. This attack, named Stigma (Demon Sword), showcases Imu’s power as unlike any enemy faced before.
Battle Matchups and Sanji’s Major Turning Point
As the battle spreads across Elbaf, major matchups for the Straw Hat crew are set. Zoro faces off against Shepherd Sommers, while Sanji begins his fight against Killingham.
The most significant highlight in this week’s leaks centers on Sanji. During the fierce fight, he recalls words from the legendary Scopper Gaban, who once told him that Sanji possesses the qualities needed to wield Conqueror’s Haki. Gaban’s stern advice was:
“Become a king. If you truly want Luffy to become Pirate King.”
Although spoilers haven’t confirmed if Sanji officially awakens Conqueror’s Haki in this chapter, this is the clearest hint Oda has given so far.
The Historic Battle Begins: Gear 5 Luffy vs Saint Nerona Imu
The most anticipated moment is reserved for the chapter’s final pages. Closing all the buildup, Luffy appears before Imu in his ultimate Gear 5 form.
Seeing the familiar figure, Imu says: “At last, you have appeared… Joy Boy!”
But the Straw Hat captain immediately rejects that destined name. He declares: “Don’t call me by any other name! My name is Luffy! I am the one who will become Pirate King!”
This classic Luffy moment affirms he will shape his own destiny under the name Monkey D. Luffy, not as a shadow of anyone from the past.
The chapter closes with the bold English caption: “Saint Nerona Imu VS Monkey D. Luffy,” officially declaring the greatest battle in One Piece history.