One Piece: Eiichiro Oda Prepares for Sanji’s Ultimate Showdown

This article includes spoilers regarding One Piece’s Final Saga.

Overview

Sanji plays a crucial role in One Piece, standing as one of the Wings of the Pirate King with formidable challenges ahead.
In the Final Saga, Oda has strategically established two major confrontations for Sanji: one with Kuzan and another with Marcus Mars.
With his bounty surpassing a billion berries, Sanji’s future adversaries are expected to be significantly more powerful, promising thrilling battles.

Quick Navigation

Sanji’s Evolution in One Piece

Sanji is much more than the Straw Hat Pirates’ cook; he’s a formidable fighter with a legacy that has evolved alongside the series. Raised in Baratie, a hotspot for the fiercest pirates and Marines alike, he has always been destined to become one of the saga’s most significant combatants.

Recognized as one of the Wings of the Pirate King alongside Zoro, Sanji’s prowess has been consistently showcased, particularly during the Wano Country arc. Here, he solidified his status, and as we transition into the Final Saga, he’s poised to face challenges unlike any he’s encountered before. Oda has crafted a path for Sanji that involves confrontations with incredibly powerful foes, enhancing his legacy further.

Sanji’s Previous Battles in One Piece

Over the years, Sanji has participated in some of the most exhilarating battles within One Piece’s expansive narrative. A recurring theme in Oda’s storytelling involves pairing Sanji against the second strongest foes from enemy factions. For example, while Zoro faced off against Crocodile’s strongest minion, Mr. 1, Sanji took on Bon Clay, showcasing a pattern that continued throughout the series.

Notable examples include his confrontations against Jabra during the Enies Lobby saga and Absalom in Thriller Bark. More recently, his clash with Queen in Wano highlighted his growth and showcased Oda’s talent in curating high-intensity combat scenarios, cementing Sanji’s reputation as one of the series’ most captivating fighters.

As he quipped, “The man that the Marines will have to watch out for will be me, Blackleg Sanji.” Despite fewer fights post-timeskip, the Wano arc reaffirmed his ability to rise to the occasion. Now, with a bounty exceeding a billion berries, Sanji stands among elite pirates, signaling that his future clashes will be with foes far beyond previous adversaries.

Upcoming Showdowns in the Final Saga

Scene from One Piece featuring Marcus Mars

The Final Saga is pivotal for all Straw Hat Pirates, as it promises to be a chaotic culmination of their journeys, offering the chance to fulfill their dreams. This turbulent phase is where monumental battles will unfold, ensuring that each character showcases their remarkable strength.

For Sanji, this chapter of the saga brings extraordinary challenges and climaxes, particularly the confrontations with two significant foes, Kuzan and Marcus Mars, which promise to draw fans into high-stakes action.

As Sanji poignantly noted, “I heard the sound of a lady’s tear drop on the floor.” His emotional investments, particularly his connection with Pudding, will undoubtedly fuel his determination in these fights.

Sanji vs. Kuzan

One of Sanji’s most formidable opponents is expected to be Kuzan, the 10th ship captain of the Blackbeard Pirates. This matchup is captivating for fans, particularly due to the theories surrounding Kuzan being an undercover agent for the Government. Many speculate that he may betray Blackbeard in the future, creating a dynamic tension within the narrative.

Sanji’s anticipated confrontation with Kuzan is tantalizingly set up, primarily due to their elemental powers: fire versus ice. This classic juxtaposition promises not just a visually stunning encounter but one filled with deep emotional stakes. The personal history surrounding Pudding’s capture by Kuzan will drive Sanji’s motivations, pushing him to confront Kuzan with fierce resolve.

Having previously captured Pudding on Whole Cake Island, Kuzan’s connection to Sanji intensifies the rivalry, as he will likely fuel Sanji’s desire for retribution. With Van Augur likely geared up for Usopp, Kuzan’s opposition aligns perfectly with Sanji’s journey, considering Kuzan’s current standing as a primary adversary under Blackbeard.

Sanji vs. Marcus Mars

St. Marcus Mars Itsumade Yokai in One Piece

In addition to Kuzan, Sanji is set to face Marcus Mars, an encounter deeply rooted in the wider conflict against the Government. As the Straw Hats gear up for these pivotal battles, it’s clear that the stakes have never been higher.

One Piece is accessible for fans to enjoy through Viz Media, and can be read officially for free on the Shonen Jump and Manga Plus platforms. The next chapter, One Piece 1136, is slated for release on January 19, 2025.

Source & Images