The highly anticipated Elbaf arc of One Piece has finally unveiled the terrifying truth behind the God Valley Incident. When the manga first revealed this historic event in chapter 957 about six years ago, no one could have imagined its significance to the entire story.
The truth behind this event was hidden by the World Government because they didn’t want the public to know about the crimes they committed while exploiting the people’s trust. In the end, blame was placed on Rocks D. Xebec, who had only come to the island to rescue his wife and his two-year-old son, Marshall D. Teach.
The tragic accident 38 years ago not only claimed countless innocent lives but also marked the tragic end for Xebec. Moreover, for some mysterious reason, the entire island was erased from the map, and the world eventually forgot that fateful day. However, the flashback story unfolding in the Elbaf arc sheds light on the incident, revealing the real reasons why the Rocks Pirates and Roger’s crew were there.
More importantly, another powerful entity was present on the island during that chaotic event, spreading terror among everyone.
One Piece Chapter 1163 Confirms Imu as the Strongest Living Character

Imu, widely believed to be the final antagonist of the series, has had all doubts erased in the latest chapter, confirming that this villain is as powerful as fans expected. Much about this mysterious ruler remains unknown, but Imu’s devilish power to wreak havoc anywhere in the world without leaving the Pangea Castle is what makes him truly terrifying.
In Elbaf, Imu possessed Gunko’s body and turned some Giants into dangerous puppets, giving readers a glimpse of his power.
However, Imu’s true strength was revealed during the God Valley Incident, where he possessed the body of Saint Jaygarcia Saturn and single-handedly fought against some of the strongest characters in the story, including Rocks D. Xebec, Gol D. Roger, Edward Newgate (Whitebeard), Monkey D. Garp, Big Mom, and Kaido.

Even with all these legendary figures teaming up, Imu was nearly untouchable. The situation worsened when Imu successfully possessed Xebec’s body, who was targeted as a descendant of Davy Jones.
It’s important to emphasize that all the legendary fighters involved are users of Conqueror’s Haki, the strongest ability known in the series. This only highlights Imu’s terrifying power. Defeating Imu, who can control anyone at will while safely hidden in the Holy Land of Marijoa, will surely be a far greater challenge than anything Luffy and his crew have faced so far.