Fans Anticipate Shanks vs Luffy Showdown in One Piece: Expectations and Theories

Fans of One Piece are buzzing with speculation that the series may culminate in an intense showdown between Luffy and Shanks, particularly revolving around the ultimate treasure. While a confrontation between these two close allies could certainly excite the fanbase, it might actually stem from Shanks assessing Luffy’s capabilities, potentially leading to an alliance against their common adversaries.

The seeds of conflict between them have been sown multiple times throughout the narrative, and Shanks may have the most at stake in this battle, given that his pirate crew might be less formidable compared to the other Emperors of the Sea. It’s conceivable that after testing Luffy’s strength in this clash, Shanks and the Red-Haired Pirates would align with the Straw Hat Grand Fleet, supporting Luffy on his quest to claim the title of Pirate King.

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One Piece: The Potential Alliance After the Clash Between Shanks and Luffy

Shanks and Luffy as depicted in the anime (Image via Toei Animation)

In the world of One Piece, Monkey D. Luffy stands as the main character, while Shanks plays a pivotal supporting role. Their bond was forged when Shanks sacrificed his arm to save Luffy from a Sea God, setting Luffy on his path to become the Pirate King and vowing to return the Straw Hat to Shanks someday.

Within the fan community, there is a theory suggesting that the conclusion of the story may feature a fierce confrontation between Shanks and Luffy. While this notion may eventually play out, the underlying motive could be more meaningful, reflecting the depth of their friendship.

Notably, this potential clash may not involve their respective crews but could instead focus on a one-on-one duel between the two captains. Furthermore, this encounter is unlikely to be a brutal fight to the finish; rather, it may serve as an exhibition of their respective skills. Numerous hints throughout the series have suggested their rivalry, especially with both characters pursuing the One Piece and Shanks engaging Luffy’s allies, such as Bartolomeo.

Shanks in the anime (Image via Toei Animation)

Observing Luffy’s impressive evolution, Shanks might decide to join the Straw Hat Grand Fleet, eager to see his friend’s aspirations materialize. However, this brings up the question: why would Shanks make such a choice? Among the current Four Emperors, Shanks could be perceived as having the least powerful pirate crew. Buggy commands the Cross Guild, Luffy leads the Straw Hat Grand Fleet, and Blackbeard boasts his ten Titanic captains.

Aligning with Luffy might represent a strategic option for Shanks’s survival, especially as his crew, being some of the oldest, could be losing steam with each passing chapter. Therefore, after contesting with Luffy, it’s plausible that Shanks would offer his allegiance.

Final Thoughts

A duel between Roger and Whitebeard (Image via Toei Animation)

The dynamic between Luffy and Shanks may mirror the legendary rivalry between Roger and Newgate; although these two crews operated on opposing sides, they maintained a strong friendship. Nevertheless, portraying the Red-Hair Pirates as a weaker faction could be a limitation of this theory. Thus, it’s advisable for readers to consider this perspective cautiously.

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Image Credits: Sportskeeda.com