Back in 1998, when One Piece was still new, creator Eiichiro Oda made a powerful statement: “When Shanks appears more often, you can understand that One Piece has entered its final saga.” Now in 2025, that prophecy has come true. With Shanks dominating the latest chapters, the greatest mystery in pirate history is finally unraveling, signaling an explosive conclusion closer than ever.
Shanks’ frequent appearances push One Piece toward its finale
Since chapter one, Red-Haired Shanks has been portrayed as a powerful yet enigmatic figure. For over 25 years, his appearances have been rare and impactful, always showing up at key moments before disappearing again. This left fans constantly curious about his true intentions and ultimate strength as one of the Four Emperors.
However, starting from chapter 1167, the storytelling shifted noticeably. Shanks suddenly gained special focus, and the following chapters revolve heavily around him. According to Oda’s 1998 statement, this is an undeniable sign: One Piece is in its final stretch. A character who once appeared sparingly now features frequently, meaning core secrets are about to be revealed.
Chapter 1167 unveiled a shocking part of Shanks’ past during his time at the Mary Geoise Holy Land. It turns out Shanks had close ties to the World Government and even expressed disdain for the “surface world.” This raises a major question for fans: Is this Shanks’ true nature, or just a perfect mask?
Shanks holds the key to many One Piece mysteries
Shifts in Shanks’ behavior might be a strategic move to gather intel on Imu and the World Government. In One Piece, betrayal and shifting alliances are common. Some turn their backs on the World Government, while others betray their pirate crews. Until Oda reveals more, the line between Shanks siding with pirates or with the Holy Knights and Imu remains razor-thin.
Oda deliberately crafted Shanks as a complex character to challenge readers’ theories. Currently, many speculate that Shanks stole a legendary Devil Fruit from Elbaf, the very one Luffy now possesses.
Shanks’ sudden surge in appearances isn’t just to showcase his power. It’s also to connect missing pieces about the world’s history, the One Piece treasure, and Joy Boy’s will. As Oda begins unraveling Shanks’ mysteries, the path to the final island Laugh Tale will come into view.