Edward Newgate, known as Whitebeard, is regarded as one of the strongest pirates in One Piece history. With the devastating power of the Gura Gura no Mi Devil Fruit and mastery of Haki, he earned the title “The Strongest Man in the World.” However, there is another figure who surpasses even Whitebeard, a pirate so formidable that Pirate King Roger and Vice Admiral Garp had to unite to defeat him: the legendary Rocks D. Xebec.
Whitebeard: The Strongest Man in the World
Whitebeard was famously called “the strongest living pirate” and “the king of the seas,” clearly setting him apart from others. A major source of his overwhelming power was the Paramecia-type Gura Gura no Mi Devil Fruit, which allowed him to generate shockwaves at will, causing tsunamis and earthquakes. Rumors say Whitebeard’s power was capable of destroying the world.
Alongside his mighty Devil Fruit, Whitebeard possessed incredibly advanced Haki, mastering all three types at the highest level. His physical endurance was equally impressive, even in old age, he withstood countless gunshot and sword wounds. Despite his legendary status, there was one pirate who exceeded Whitebeard’s strength.
Rocks D. Xebec: Stronger Than Whitebeard
Before Edward Newgate became the captain known as Whitebeard, he served under Rocks D. Xebec, considered the most notorious pirate of all time. Rocks achieved feats that even the Four Emperors could not. For example, he infiltrated Marijoa during the Reverie, fully aware of the tight security, and kidnapped five Celestial Dragons.
Rocks then fought a Navy Admiral, severely wounding him to the point of death. But he didn’t stop there. Rocks D. Xebec stormed into Imu’s Flower Room, threatening to return in the future. Realizing he couldn’t defeat Imu and the World Government alone, Rocks shifted tactics by participating in Davy Back Fights to recruit powerful crew members.
Rocks D. Xebec Could Have Become the First Pirate King
Rocks D. Xebec’s Haki is undoubtedly among the strongest in One Piece. This was evident during his clash with Harald in Marijoa, where the intensity of their Haki destroyed everything within several kilometers. Rocks combined his Haki with swordsmanship, creating one of the most devastating fighting styles in the series.
According to the manga, Rocks’ sword strikes were as powerful as cannonballs. This fighting style enabled him to break through the Gate of Justice and escape, a feat only a few characters have managed.
Rocks’ power was no joke, which is why Roger and Garp decided to set aside their rivalry and join forces to end his era. Without their cooperation, Rocks might have survived God Valley and achieved his ambitions.
Creator Eiichiro Oda will reveal more about Rocks and his life in upcoming chapters. Until then, fans can speculate freely. The flashback’s conclusion promises to shed light on the events in Elbaf and the rest of the Final Saga.