Article summary:
He is the one who entrusted the Straw Hat to Luffy. He is the one who stopped the Marineford war. Red-Haired Shanks is the hero's idol. Yet, for several years now, a dark theory has been growing: what if he were the final boss? His ties to the World Government and his recent statement ("Let's go get the One Piece") in 2026 cast doubt on his true motives.
Shanks is the freest character in the series, but also the most calculating. He never acts randomly. He knowingly stole Luffy's Devil Fruit (Nika) from CP9. Did he bet on Luffy out of affection, or because he needed someone to awaken Joy Boy's power in his place?
Could the benevolent mentor be hiding a Machiavellian plan?
A Celestial Dragon: The Figarland family
The film One Piece Red and the recent chapters about God Valley confirmed a bombshell: Shanks belongs to the Figarland family, a high-ranking Celestial Dragon lineage.
This explains how he was able to enter Mariejois to speak with the Five Elders (Gorosei) during the Reverie. He is not an ordinary pirate; he is a noble by blood. Is he playing a double game to maintain the balance of the world, or is he protecting the interests of his social class?
"It's time to go get the One Piece"
Just after Kaido and Big Mom's downfall, and the awakening of Luffy's Gear 5, Shanks spoke this fateful sentence to his second-in-command, Ben Beckman. He waited for Joy Boy to reappear before making his move.
His recent display of strength in Elbaf, where he annihilated Eustass Kid's crew with a single attack (Divine Departure), shows that he will show no mercy, not even to the "New Generation." He is an obstacle that Luffy will have to overcome, amicably or otherwise.
His sword is formidable. Discover its history in our article: Everything You Need to Know About Gryphon.
Gear up for the duel with our Katanas and Swords.
The guardian or the thief?
The most likely theory is that Shanks is the "Guardian" of Laugh Tale. He was waiting for Roger's successor to be ready. Roger arrived "too early," but Shanks wants to make sure Luffy arrives "at the right time."
However, if he decides to fight Luffy to test his resolve, it will be the most powerful clash of Haki in history (Conqueror's Haki vs. Conqueror's Haki). To understand these powers, read: The Chosen Ones of Conqueror's Haki.
Conclusion: The promise will be kept
Whether by the sword or over a banquet, Luffy and Shanks will meet again. This moment will mark the end of the age of piracy as we know it.
To follow the evolution of the Emperors, consult our guide to the Current Four Emperors.
Prepare for the legendary reunion with our One Piece Figures!