This article contains spoilers from the Elbaf arc of One Piece.
Overview
- Eiichiro Oda has introduced the legendary pirate, Scopper Gaban, a prominent figure among the Roger Pirates, known for his legendary status comparable to Gol D. Roger and Silvers Rayleigh.
- Revered as the Mountain Eater, Gaban’s solitary confrontations against countless foes have solidified his formidable reputation.
- In the latest developments, Gaban openly challenges Luffy, Zoro, and Nami, affirming his elite level by urging them to retrieve the key to Loki’s chains, thereby showcasing his battle prowess.
Chapter 1139 of One Piece may not have unveiled significant lore, but it excited fans with the long-anticipated reveal of Scopper Gaban, a character that aficionados of the series have waited decades to witness. This chapter, while brief, zeroes in on Gaban, enhancing its significance. Serving as the right-hand man to the Pirate King Gol D. Roger, Gaban possesses immense strength, highlighted by his dual axes and daunting reputation.
Encountering Scopper Gaban
Last week, Oda focused on the enigmatic character representing Elbaf when Shanks was referenced, leading Luffy to engage in discussions about the Roger Pirates with the Giants. The narrative then shifted to this mysterious character, strongly hinting at a connection to the Roger Pirates, especially in the absence of Roger and Rayleigh, thus teasing the reveal of Scopper Gaban.
“Do you know what kind of man Loki is? What will you do when things go south?” — Scopper Gaban
With Roger deceased and Rayleigh currently on Amazon Lily, Gaban emerges as a key figure. In chapter 1139, the Straw Hat Pirates’ exploration of the Giant Aurust Castle culminates in them reaching the Throne Room, where the Holy Knights are summoned. It is there that fans are introduced to Gaban, initially cloaked in mystery as a resident of Elbaf.
Fans swiftly deduced Gaban’s identity as clues such as his distinctive glasses and axes were revealed. Oda did not hold back in building Gaban’s legend, confirming him as a storied member of the Roger Pirates.
The Tale of the Mountain Eater
Gaban’s Widespread Fame
During chapter 1139, the narrative shifts to a grand banquet in Western Elbaf Village, featuring Oimo and Kashi discussing the rumors surrounding the mysterious man of Elbaf. They confirm Gaban’s eminent status, noting that apart from Roger, there were two other formidable figures in the Roger Pirates: Rayleigh and Scopper Gaban, aptly nicknamed the Mountain Eater.
“As I told you, he’s been living here for over 20 years! The man who stood as an equal to Roger and Rayleigh, Scopper Gaban!” — Oimo and Kashi
Legend has it that when Roger fell ill, Gaban took him to a remote mountain hospital. However, enemies discovered their location and surrounded them. In an extraordinary display of loyalty and might, Gaban single-handedly faced down countless pirates, using only his two axes. The sheer devastation he wrought on the landscape was so severe that it earned him the title of “Mountain Eater, ” leaving nothing but barren terrain in his wake—a story told throughout the One Piece world.
Gaban’s Challenge to the Straw Hats
Gaban’s Defiance Against Yonko
Given Gaban’s storied past, it’s unsurprising that he is depicted as a figure of extraordinary strength. The narrative emphasizes Gaban’s power, establishing him as a pirate rivaling the likes of Rayleigh, and implied even Roger himself. This places Gaban among the elite, on par with the Yonko, highlighting a legendary prowess that seems undiminished even now.
In this chapter, Gaban mediates the Straw Hats’ descent into a hidden base within Aurust Castle, presenting them with the key to Loki’s chains. However, to claim the key, they must first engage in battle with him, underscoring the immense test of their capabilities against a true legend.
By confidently challenging a Yonko and their first mate, Gaban illustrates the depth of his power. Fans eagerly await the upcoming clash, filled with speculation as Oda takes a break from weekly releases. Following an exhilarating four-week arc filled with shocking developments, viewers have much to ponder. The next installment promises to deliver an epic confrontation where Luffy will face none other than Roger’s indomitable left-hand man.
To stay current with the adventures of the Straw Hat Pirates, One Piece can be accessed through Viz Media and is available for free reading on the Shonen Jump and Manga Plus platforms. Chapter 1140 is scheduled for release on February 23, 2025.
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