Luffy vs Imu: The Epic Showdown Involving One Piece’s Original Devil Fruits Explained

A recent theory on Reddit by @Desperate-Ad8210 proposes that the Devil Fruits of Imu and Luffy might be the very first in the One Piece universe. These fruits could symbolize the fundamental themes of oppression and freedom, providing a deeper context to their impending conflict.

Additionally, this theory highlights how Imu’s Devil Fruit may be linked to Nefertari D. Lili, the former Queen of Alabasta, who stands as one of the most enigmatic figures in the One Piece lore. It is suggested that Imu could have originally been Lili herself; however, the corruptive influence of the Devil Fruit transformed her into a physical embodiment of oppression, contrasting starkly with the pure, liberating nature of the Nika form that Luffy assumes in his Gear 5 state.

Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for the series.

Analyzing the Luffy vs. Imu showdown as a reflection of the first two Devil Fruits in One Piece

Luffy and Imu could have a very memorable final battle (Image via Toei Animation).

A pivotal element of this Reddit theory is the assertion that Imu is truly Nefertari D. Lili, the ancestor of Vivi and the former Queen of Alabasta from the era when the World Government was established. Therefore, the theory suggests that Imu’s Devil Fruit directly opposes the Nika Fruit, epitomizing an unwavering thirst for oppression and control.

The theory argues that Lili was consumed by her Devil Fruit, transforming her into Imu, in stark contrast to Luffy, who retains his identity while harnessing the powers of the Nika Fruit. This distinction could be visually represented: Gear 5 Luffy embodies a predominantly white aesthetic, while Imu is enveloped in shadows, symbolizing their moral dichotomy and the nature of their powers.

This theory posits that these two Devil Fruits were the original ones to emerge in the One Piece universe, signifying the concepts of good and evil, with subsequent Fruits emerging as derivatives of this origin. Thus, it suggests a potential link to the rise of the World Government and Joy Boy’s opposition.

The Intriguing Secrets Surrounding Imu

Imu as seen in the anime (Image via Toei Animation).

It is undeniable that Imu is perhaps the most enigmatic character in the entirety of the One Piece narrative. Almost every significant question within the storyline relates back to this character, including the formation of the World Government, the defeat of Joy Boy, the Void Century, and beyond. Yet, author Eiichiro Oda has thus far withheld the character’s full appearance and gender.

Given Imu’s position as the ruler of the World Government, it stands to reason that this character possesses immense power, as recently demonstrated in the act of destroying Saturn, one of the Elders of the Gorosei. This prompts speculation about Imu’s ultimate ambitions and their connections to the mysteries of the past.

Concluding Thoughts

There is a compelling possibility that both Imu and Joy Boy share a significant tie to the origins of Devil Fruits in the One Piece saga, although this remains unconfirmed. Furthermore, it appears that the ruler of the World Government embodies extraordinary abilities, aligning with this intriguing theory.

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