Article summary:
This is the news that shook the world after Kaido and Big Mom's downfall: Buggy the Clown was named one of the 4 Emperors (Yonko). How could such a cowardly and weak pirate reach the top? In 2026, we know that it was thanks to a legendary misunderstanding and the creation of the terrifying organization Cross Guild.
Buggy "of the Thousand Pieces" is the perfect example of succeeding through failure. Former cabin boy aboard Gol D. Roger's ship, "brother" of Shanks, former Warlord of the Sea... and now an Emperor. But behind this grandiose title lies a far more comical (and dangerous) reality.
The face of the new global threat.
The truth about Cross Guild
The world thinks Buggy is the leader and that Crocodile and Dracule Mihawk are his subordinates. That's false! In reality, Buggy owes Crocodile a colossal debt. To repay him, he offered his logistical services (his delivery company).
Following a printing error on the advertising posters by Buggy's henchmen, the Marines believed he was the mastermind behind the operation. Mihawk and Crocodile decided to let Buggy play the role of "figurehead" (and target) while they run things from the shadows. A perfect shield for former Warlord of the Sea Mihawk, who only wants peace.
Marine Hunters: The World Turned Upside Down
Cross Guild has changed the rules of the game. For the first time in history, bounties have been placed on the heads of Marines. Civilians and pirates now hunt Admirals for money.
This plunged the world into chaos, considerably weakening the authority of the World Government. It was this destabilizing influence that justified Buggy's title as an Emperor in the eyes of the Marines.
To find out which Marines are most threatened, read our feature: Marine Admirals: Power and Justice.
Support the revolution (or the chaos) with our pirate flags.
His true dream: Becoming the Pirate King?
The most surprising moment happened recently. Tired of being manipulated, Buggy regained his pirate pride. He declared war on his former friend Red-Haired Shanks and ordered Cross Guild to go after the One Piece.
He doesn't want the treasure for the money, but for the glory, to prove that he is worth as much as Shanks. This declaration galvanized his thousands of underlings, forcing Mihawk and Crocodile to follow the movement toward Laugh Tale.
Conclusion: A clown among the greats
Buggy is living proof that with luck and charisma, you can achieve anything. He is now a serious contender in the final race.
To follow this frantic race, don't miss our article on Joy Boy's true identity.
Choose your side and gear up at our One Piece store!