For years, one of the most debated topics among One Piece fans has been how Eiichiro Oda handles the Straw Hat crew members. As Haki became an almost essential power in the later stages of the series, many characters still hadn’t been granted this ability, while most of the spotlight and memorable moments focused on the trio of Luffy, Zoro, and Sanji.
This led many fans to feel that the other Straw Hats were increasingly overshadowed, especially Usopp. He has often been criticized for having too few chances to shine and for inconsistent character development over the years.
However, One Piece chapter 1189 brings a very positive sign by reviving an important ability of Usopp’s that the manga had neglected for over a decade.
Usopp’s Observation Haki finally returns
Back in the Dressrosa arc in 2014, Usopp had one of the most memorable moments in his journey when he awakened Observation Haki. At that time, he became the first Straw Hat member outside the Monster Trio (Luffy, Zoro, and Sanji) to possess Haki.
This was a major turning point for his character. Yet strangely, after Dressrosa, the manga barely showed Usopp using this power again.
The complete disappearance of Usopp’s Observation Haki from the storyline left many readers puzzled. Ironically, he even demonstrated Haki more frequently in spin-offs like One Piece: Heart of Gold and One Piece Film: Red than in the main manga.
Chapter 1189 marks Usopp’s first Haki use in 12 years
Everything changed in chapter 1189. After Imu dealt a heavy blow to Luffy, Usopp suddenly reacted as if sensing something happening to his captain.
This is the first time in 12 years that the official manga confirms Usopp using Observation Haki once again.
Interestingly, the scene is framed so that even Usopp doesn’t fully understand why he has this strange feeling. This suggests he may still lack full control over his Haki, which partly explains why it has been absent for so long. Still, just the mention of Observation Haki is enough to excite fans.
Why this comeback matters so much
Reviving Usopp’s Observation Haki opens up many new possibilities for his character development.
Although rarely used, Usopp’s Haki has always been hinted to hold great potential. In One Piece Film: Red, this ability played a key role in helping the characters coordinate to stop Tot Musica and save the world.
If the manga continues to explore this power, Usopp could receive a significant boost in strength. This is especially important as the Elbaph arc pushes One Piece into battles on an unprecedented scale.
A chance for Usopp to reclaim his place in the Straw Hats
More than just power, this could be the start of the character growth fans have been waiting for years.
Over the past decade, Usopp has often been criticized for remaining timid and lacking maturity despite countless life-or-death adventures. If he finally masters Observation Haki, it would provide a solid foundation for Oda to develop Usopp in the way readers have hoped.
With One Piece now officially in its Final Saga, it’s crucial that all Straw Hats get their chance to shine. The unexpected return of Usopp’s Observation Haki after more than 12 years could be the first step in that plan.