The recent Jump Festa 2026 event sent shockwaves through the fan community when creator Eiichiro Oda shared one of his most important letters ever. No longer distant promises, Oda officially confirmed the identity of a legendary figure who holds the key to the final island.
After the Elbaph Arc concludes, One Piece will enter its most intense phase with the arrival of the man known as the “Scarred Man.” Let’s uncover who this character is and why his power could change the world’s fate!
Hinokizu, The Pirate Era’s Destiny Holder
In a letter translated by @pewpiece on X, Oda revealed a shocking detail. Right after leaving the giant island Elbaph, the story will head straight to Laugh Tale. But to reach it, the Straw Hats must face the most mysterious figure in history: Hinokizu, the Scarred Man.
This character was first mentioned by Kid in chapter 1056 when discussing the Road Poneglyphs. By chapter 1081, Blackbeard confirmed Hinokizu holds the last red Poneglyph, which was once on Fish-Man Island. With Oda’s confirmation, the legendary figure’s debut is just months away!
Who is Hinokizu and how powerful is he?
Many questions arise. Was Hinokizu present during the God Valley incident? Was he a member of the Rocks or Roger Pirates? These speculations only heighten fan anticipation.
According to Eustass Kid, Hinokizu travels on a pitch-black ship and can create massive whirlpools to engulf enemies. This sparks theories about whether his power comes from a Paramecia-type Devil Fruit controlling seawater or an incredibly advanced form of Haki.
The final obstacle before Laugh Tale
Since the Road Poneglyph is the map to Laugh Tale, Hinokizu is likely hiding very close to the final island. If the theory about his whirlpool control is true, he will be the toughest barrier anyone aiming to become Pirate King must overcome.
Additionally, with Imu’s recent reveal of a Devil Fruit power and a new form of Haki called Maki, Oda is expanding One Piece’s power system. Hinokizu may possess a completely new ability never seen before.
With Elbaph closing and the door to Laugh Tale opening wider than ever, Hinokizu is not just a new character but a crucial link connecting the legendary past to Luffy’s future.