In the world of One Piece, powers can often be countered in the most unexpected ways, thanks to the complex interactions of Devil Fruits. Although Imu currently appears invincible, his power can actually be neutralized, and Oda planted this clue 18 years ago.
Unfortunately, many key details from Oda were mistranslated. Still, the key to defeating Imu was revealed long ago by the creator, and it involves Blackbeard (Marshall D. Teach).
Oda Revealed How to Counter Imu’s Power 18 Years Ago

Eighteen years ago, one of the most important battles in all of One Piece took place (chapters 440 and 441), the clash between Portgas D. Ace and Marshall D. Teach. In this fight, Oda revealed one of the most terrifying powers ever: the darkness of the Yami Yami no Mi. Thanks to this power, Blackbeard was able to nullify Ace’s Mera Mera no Mi abilities.
However, there is a crucial difference between the original Japanese and the English translation of this chapter. In the English version, Teach tells Ace that his power can absorb all Devil Fruit abilities.

The original line, however, does not mention Devil Fruits at all. Instead, Teach clearly states that the Yami Yami no Mi can absorb the power of the Devil itself.
Since Imu is the Devil of the One Piece world, it’s clear that Oda is hinting at a battle between Blackbeard and Imu, where Blackbeard’s Yami Yami no Mi ability will completely neutralize Imu’s devilish powers.
Blackbeard Can Nullify Imu’s Devilish Power
Imu’s power is inherently devilish, and Oda has confirmed this in One Piece. Imu spreads evil power to others and is known to possess abilities like the Devil’s Contract. It’s no surprise that Imu is the Devil of the One Piece world, but what’s fascinating is that Oda revealed 18 years ago that Imu can be defeated by a single Devil Fruit.
This ties into Rocks D. Xebec, who was also searching for two specific Devil Fruits. Rocks believed a legendary Devil Fruit was hidden in Elbaf. In short, the two fruits are the Yami Yami no Mi (which Xebec wanted to eat) and the Nika fruit, which he wanted Harald to consume.
Blackbeard and Imu Are Set to Clash in One Piece

Over the past 18 years, Oda has slowly built up one of the most crucial battles in One Piece: the showdown between Blackbeard and Imu. Now, Marijoa is under attack and engulfed in flames. Clearly, the battle is imminent, and Oda is finally set to reveal just how terrifying Blackbeard’s true power really is.