The Elbaf arc is not just a stop at the land of giants, but the spark for the Final Saga events. With the return of old legends, the Holy Knights, and the manipulations of Imu-sama, Elbaf promises battles powerful enough to explode every frame when adapted into anime.
Let’s take a look at the hottest battles in the Elbaf arc that fans are eagerly anticipating in the near future.
1. Rocks D. Xebec vs Garp and Roger (God Valley flashback)
The God Valley incident remains the biggest mystery in One Piece history. The battle between the monster Rocks D. Xebec and the legendary alliance of Garp and Roger is not only a showcase of the old era’s power but also the key to the current world order. Especially the theory that Rocks is controlled by Imu could turn him into an unprecedented threat, forcing the Navy and pirates to join forces once again.
2. The intense showdown: 6 legends vs Imu inside Saturn’s body
You heard that right! Even if it lasts only a moment, the vision of Charlotte Linlin, Kaido, Whitebeard, Rocks, Roger, and Garp launching a full assault on Imu while he possesses Jaygarcia Saturn will be the most epic moment in anime history. This is a clash of the strongest beings the world has ever seen.
3. Scopper Gaban and Shanks vs Harald controlled by Imu
In chapter 1169, Elbaf heats up as “The Left Hand of the Pirate King” Scopper Gaban returns, fighting alongside Red-Haired Shanks. Their opponent is Harald, who has lost control and is slaughtering the giants after being manipulated by Imu. This pairing of two generations of Roger Pirates is truly a gift for fans.
4. Scopper Gaban vs Shepard Sommers
The fight between Gaban and Sommers (a Holy Knight) represents the clash between ideals of freedom and the World Government’s absolute power. Sommers and his group come to Elbaf with a cruel plan to kidnap children, forcing the legendary Gaban to draw his sword again after decades in hiding.
5. Straw Hat Pirates vs Gunko
In chapter 1146, Holy Knight Gunko showcased overwhelming power by single-handedly outclassing several Straw Hats like Nami, Jinbe, Brook, and Usopp. Gunko even took the boy Colon hostage. The highlight was Usopp’s counterattack, though it caused minor damage, it showed the courage of the “Sea Warrior” facing an enemy with super regeneration.
6. Monkey D. Luffy vs Gunko wielding Imu’s power
Moving into chapter 1151, Luffy officially enters the fray as he senses the overwhelming Conqueror’s Haki radiating from Imu through Gunko. This is no longer a fight against an ordinary Holy Knight but an indirect confrontation between Luffy and the one on the Empty Throne. Although the outcome remains uncertain in 2025, fans believe this will set the stage for the final epic battle.