The One Piece manga is heating up as the Elbaph arc continues to showcase intense clashes between the pirate-giant alliance and the Holy Knights along with Imu. To conquer this warrior nation, the Holy Knights resort to ruthless tactics like taking children hostage.
Although the arrival of the unbeatable duo Luffy and Loki shifted the battle’s momentum, a harsh truth has emerged: Luffy is still not ready for the final showdown.
Gear 5: Ultimate power comes at a steep cost
There is no denying that Gear 5 grants Luffy unmatched strength, enough to overpower even the “Strongest Creature in the World,” Kaido. However, this ability acts like a double-edged sword, draining his stamina at an alarming rate.
In the latest developments, the extremely short duration Luffy can maintain his awakened state has become his biggest obstacle against enemies with incredible endurance like the Holy Knights.
Critical condition in One Piece chapter 1178
Looking at Luffy’s state in chapter 1178, fans can’t help but worry. Once his energy is depleted, the legendary Yonko instantly transforms into a frail old man, unable to lift even a finger.
The only way for him to return to battle is by stuffing himself with food to recover his stamina. The fight at Elbaph has only just begun, yet Luffy is already hitting a breaking point.
A breakthrough is needed before facing the World Government
Clearly, at his current level, Luffy will struggle to survive the final life-or-death battle where opponents are not only stronger but also far more cunning and resilient. To truly become the Pirate King, he must find a way to extend Gear 5’s active time or lessen its harmful effects on his body.
The fate of the world rests heavily on his shoulders, and Elbaph is the toughest training ground for Luffy to push beyond his limits before confronting the vacant throne head-on.