Luffy’s Desire for Freedom in One Piece Linked to His Mother’s Background

Within the intriguing universe of One Piece lies the enigma of Luffy’s mother. Among various speculations circulating online, one of the most discussed theories posits that she may actually be the former warlord, Crocodile. However, without any official confirmation, another theory has emerged suggesting that Luffy’s mother could be a former slave.

Referenced as the God Valley Incident, it was a moment when the Rocks Pirates were thwarted by the combined efforts of Garp and Gol D Roger. Interestingly, it is also possible that Monkey D Dragon participated in this clash. Having witnessed the horrific Native Hunting Competition happening on the island, he may have felt repulsed by his role in the Marines. Subsequently, he might have escaped with a slave, potentially marrying her, which would later allow Luffy to inherit her legacy of freedom.

Disclaimer: This article includes potential spoilers from the One Piece manga series and reflects the author’s perspective.

One Piece: The Theory of Luffy’s Mother as a Slave

The start of the Native Hunting Competition on God Valley (Image via Shueisha) — The beginning of the Native Hunting Competition on God Valley (Image via Shueisha)

The Native Hunting Competition is a brutal event where the inhabitants of a specific island, along with some slaves, are mercilessly hunted down by the World Nobles. This event recurs every three years, with the victor, determined by the most kills, receiving rare devil fruits as a reward.

To date, the only Native Hunting Competition showcased in the series took place on God Valley, 38 years ago. Notably, this event coincided with the climactic battle involving the Rocks Pirates against the alliance of Roger and Garp.

Despite the many unanswered questions surrounding these events, it is plausible that additional Marine officers joined Garp in facing the Rocks Pirates. One such officer could potentially be Monkey D Dragon, Garp’s biological son. The narrative reveals that Dragon left the Marines in search of justice, and it seems the God Valley incident may have served as a pivotal moment for this decision.

Monkey D Dragon as seen in the anime (Image via Toei Animation) — Monkey D Dragon portrayed in the anime (Image via Toei Animation)

Garp and his fellow Marines fought against the Rocks Pirates to safeguard innocent lives from the violent intentions of the World Nobles. This conflict likely left a profound impact on Dragon, motivating him to abandon the Marines. Nevertheless, he could not leave without rescuing someone first.

After saving several individuals, alongside some enslaved people brought to the island, Dragon escaped with a female slave who might have later become his wife and the mother of Monkey D Luffy. The essence of freedom, cherished by this slave, was ultimately passed down to Luffy.

Reflection and Conclusion

Crocodile as seen in the anime (Image via Toei Animation) — The character Crocodile in the anime (Image via Toei Animation)

While the idea of Luffy’s mother being a slave is intriguing, it primarily hinges on Dragon’s principles of justice. Conversely, the theory suggesting Crocodile as Luffy’s mother—often referred to as the “Crocomom”theory—derives more substantial narrative support due to previously established plotlines and clues within the series.

Furthermore, Ivankov has hinted at a mystery surrounding Crocodile’s true identity, referring to him affectionately as ‘Croco-boy.’ Additionally, a design from a Shitsumon ni Kotaete segment reveals Crocodile’s youthful appearance devoid of masculine traits, coupled with a female figure in similar attire present during Roger’s execution, solidifying the notion that the Crocomom theory remains the frontrunner regarding Luffy’s maternal lineage.

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