The expansive universe of One Piece has introduced an array of remarkable characters, each playing a pivotal role in the narrative crafted by Eiichiro Oda. From notorious villains to unwavering allies, the depth and complexity of these personalities leave a lasting impression on fans. As the series approaches its climax, the anticipation for the return of loved characters rises, especially those who have been sidelined during previous arcs.
Now, as the final saga unfolds, the possibility of seeing some favorite characters again feels imminent. In this context, we take a look at seven characters whose stories have captivated audiences and whose returns are highly anticipated.
7 Enel
The God Who Fell From Grace
More than 800 episodes have passed since Enel graced the main storyline, yet his legacy continues to spark robust discussions among fans. This self-proclaimed “God of Skypiea, ”who harnessed the power of the Goro Goro no Mi (a Logia-type Devil Fruit that grants control over lightning), was seen as nearly invincible, with only Luffy’s rubber abilities enabling him to challenge Enel’s celestial dominance.
Enel ruled Skypiea with a tyrannical hand, but his defeat felt like cosmic justice. Instead of a typical villain’s fate, he fled to the moon, leading to a fascinating cover story that unveiled a sci-fi subplot featuring ancient cities and robotic inhabitants. His complete absence from the main story intensifies fans’ desire for his unexpected revival, particularly now that pivotal characters like Imu and the ancient weapons are surfacing.
6 Bartholomew
Fanboy Turned Faithful Ally
No one adores the Straw Hat Pirates more than Bartolomeo, who debuted during the Dressrosa saga. His unusual affinity for Luffy is matched only by his formidable power granted by the Barrier-Barrier Fruit. Bartolomeo’s memorable moments arose not just from his strength, but from his unabashed admiration for Luffy, even going so far as to cry tears of joy witnessing his hero in action.
As the leader of the Barto Club and a captain of the Straw Hat Grand Fleet, Bartolomeo’s fearless act of burning Shanks’ flag in favor of Luffy’s has incited speculation about future conflicts. The anticipation surrounding his return and reunion with Luffy promises to deliver entertaining moments filled with excitement and emotion.
5 Charlotte Katakuri
The Perfect Son Who Found Respect
Charlotte Katakuri initially stood as a seemingly impenetrable adversary for Luffy in the Whole Cake Island arc, embodying the pinnacle of strength and prestige within the Big Mom Pirates. With the extraordinary abilities of the Mochi Mochi no Mi and mastery of Future Sight Haki, Katakuri posed a formidable challenge for the future Pirate King. Yet, as the battle unfolded, layers of his character revealed a profound sense of honor.
His decision to grant Luffy a moment to recover during their brutal confrontation showcased a nuanced sense of integrity rarely found in antagonists. Ultimately, their clash fostered a bond of respect between them, and with the Big Mom Pirates rendered vulnerable, fans are left hoping for a return from Katakuri, potentially as reluctant ally rather than adversary.
4 Donquixote Doflamingo
The Puppet Master Behind The Throne
In the pantheon of One Piece villains, Donquixote Doflamingo stands out for his philosophical depth. A former Celestial Dragon and dangerous warlord, he wielded the Ito Ito no Mi to manipulate life and death across the kingdom of Dressrosa. His enigmatic philosophy, encapsulated in his chilling quote about justice, resonated through the series and left an indelible mark on its fans.
His defeat at Luffy’s hands marked a significant turning point in the New World, yet his influence hasn’t waned. Even after confinement in Impel Down, he continues to hint at knowing the world’s dark truths. As the series progresses, Doflamingo remains a figure of intrigue, suggesting he could remain integral to the unfolding plot.
3. Yamato
The Oni Who Chose Freedom
Yamato emerged as a dynamic character during the Wano arc, embodying the struggle between legacy and personal identity as Kaido’s child who aligns with Kozuki Oden’s ideals. Rejecting his father’s oppressive rule, Yamato resonates with the theme of freedom—aspiring to fulfill Oden’s dream of an open Wano.
Equipped with the mystical Inu Inu no Mi, Model: Okuchi no Makami, Yamato displayed extraordinary strength while fighting against Kaido to protect Momonosuke. Many fans anticipated Yamato joining the Straw Hat crew, yet he chose instead to explore Wano on his own terms, reflecting a depth of character that leaves viewers eager for his eventual journey beyond Wano’s shores.
2 Carrot
The Moonlight Warrior Finding Her Path
Carrot, hailing from the Mokomo Dukedom, captivated audiences during the Whole Cake Island arc with her exuberance and fierce loyalty to the Straw Hats. Her powerful transformation into Sulong showcased her potential as a formidable fighter, particularly during the battle against Big Mom’s fleet.
Despite fervent fan campaigns for her permanent addition to the Straw Hat crew, Carrot chose to remain in Zou as the new leader of the Mink Tribe after Pedro’s demise. This decision has left her storyline feeling incomplete, creating an enduring sense of anticipation for her return in future arcs.
1 Bentham
A Friendship That Transcends Prison Walls
Bentham, or Mr.2 Bon Clay, began his journey as an eccentric antagonist but evolved into one of the series’ most beloved figures. His ability to mimic anyone with the Mane Mane no Mi was impressive, but it was his unwavering loyalty that secured his place in fans’ hearts.
During the harrowing Impel Down arc, Bentham made the ultimate sacrifice to aid Luffy, staying behind to hold off the Marines while Luffy escaped. That poignant farewell marked one of the series’ most emotional moments. Although fans got a glimpse of him in a cover story, crowned as Queen of Newkama Land, his absence from the main storyline remains palpable, leaving fans yearning for the moment he rejoins Luffy’s adventure once more.
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