Zoro’s New Sword Explained: What to Expect After Elbaf in One Piece

Note: Spoiler Alert for the Elbaf Arc of One Piece.

Overview

Zoro currently wields three swords: Wado Ichimonji, Enma, and Sandai Kitetsu.
The Wado Ichimonji holds significant sentimental value for Zoro, stemming from his early journey.
Following the Elbaf Arc, Zoro has the option to replace Sandai Kitetsu with the Nidai Kitetsu.

Zoro’s Current Three Swords
Reasons for Replacing Sandai Kitetsu

Zoro stands as one of the premier swordsmen in the world of One Piece, intent on surpassing Dracule Mihawk, the current greatest swordsman. His evolution from an underestimated swordsman to a formidable warrior in the New World underscores his determination and growth. Despite his remarkable achievements, Zoro recognizes that further power enhancements are necessary, which includes acquiring superior weapons.

Zoro’s Current Three Swords

Currently, Zoro’s arsenal comprises three extraordinary swords, each contributing to his prowess. He possesses the renowned blades Enma, Wado Ichimonji, and Sandai Kitetsu. Among these, the Wado Ichimonji is particularly significant due to its deep-rooted emotional ties, symbolizing the promise Zoro made to his late friend Kuina to become the best swordsman in the world.

“After I tame this sword, I will be stronger.”– Zoro

The Wado Ichimonji, classified as one of the 21 Great Grade Swords, originally belonged to Kuina. Following her tragic passing, Zoro inherited it as a testament to his commitment. This blade holds a unique place in Zoro’s heart, making it irreplaceable, and he aims to elevate its status possibly to a blackened blade by the series’ conclusion.

The second sword, Enma, was bestowed upon Zoro during the Wano arc as a substitute for Shusui, which he returned to its homeland. Enma is uniquely powerful in that it necessitates the user’s Ryuo to be drawn out forcefully. Despite Zoro’s impressive capabilities, he has yet to fully master Enma, which diminishes the likelihood of him replacing it in the immediate future. Moreover, achieving the goal of blackening Enma adds another layer of complexity, reinforcing Zoro’s commitment to this sword until he realizes its full potential.

Reasons for Replacing Sandai Kitetsu

The Sandai Kitetsu: A Strong Yet Limiting Blade

With both Wado Ichimonji and Enma deemed irreplaceable, Sandai Kitetsu becomes the focal point for potential replacement. As part of the Kitetsu lineage, Sandai Kitetsu is recognized among the 50 Skillful Grade Swords. While powerful, Zoro finds it challenging to control due to its inherent bloodlust—a characteristic linked to its cursed nature. Yet, the Wano arc challenged the concept of “cursed”swords, positing that such labels arise from the owner’s inability to wield them effectively.

“Are you telling me that Oden used to wield you as if you were light as a feather?”– Zoro

Even though Zoro has demonstrated his capability with Sandai Kitetsu, it remains inferior to Enma and Wado Ichimonji in strength. Consequently, Zoro’s journey may well lead him to replace Sandai Kitetsu following the Elbaf Arc. The Nidai Kitetsu, also from the Kitetsu family and initially introduced in Wano, stands as a promising candidate for this replacement. Although Zoro didn’t claim it during the Wano arc, its potential acquisition is still on the horizon.

The impending alliance of Wano with the Straw Hat Pirates could create a scenario where Zoro finally acquires the Nidai Kitetsu. As new conflicts arise, Zoro may firmly establish his position with a Kitetsu sword, as Oda has hinted at a showdown with Nusjuro—who wields the Shodai Kitetsu. This narrative thread suggests that either Zoro will continue with Sandai Kitetsu or transition to the Nidai Kitetsu to fulfill the expectations set by Oda.

The Case for Nidai Kitetsu

Fans are keen to understand why Zoro should specifically seek the Nidai Kitetsu post-Elbaf Arc. The narrative intrigue revolves around the established rivalry and the Kitetsu sword legacy. Zoro’s confrontation with Nusjuro set the stage for a symbolic battle of the Kitetsu swords, asserting that Zoro cannot enter this encounter without a Kitetsu sword of his own. Therefore, if he does choose to replace Sandai Kitetsu, Nidai Kitetsu is the most logical successor, which would contribute significantly to the ongoing plot.

For those eager to follow Zoro’s journey, One Piece can be accessed via Viz Media. Fans can read the series for free on platforms like Shonen Jump and Manga Plus. The highly anticipated next chapter, One Piece 1136, is set for release on January 19, 2025.

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