Luffy’s Reluctant Role and the Significance of Joy Boy as “the First Pirate” in One Piece

In the anime and manga series One Piece, the legendary treasure known as the One Piece holds the promise of crowning its finder as the Pirate King. However, this coveted title may propel Luffy into an unexpected role as a revolutionary leader, challenging the oppressive World Government.

Vegapunk suggests that Joy Boy, known as “the first pirate,”left more than just treasure; he provided a means to rebel against the world’s tyranny. Upon finding the One Piece, Roger‘s laughter hinted at its deeper significance, showcasing a challenge that was intimidating for his time. Now, Luffy’s journey may fulfill Joy Boy’s unfinished legacy, pushing him into a pivotal role he never expected.

One Piece: Joy Boy’s Legacy and Roger’s Revelation

Dr. Vegapunk as shown in the anime (Image via Toei Animation)

According to Vegapunk, Joy Boy was the initial pirate, with the title of Pirate King reserved for the one who discovers the One Piece. When Roger reached the treasure, he laughed, realizing that becoming Pirate King transcended merely gaining wealth or fame; it was about inheriting the mantle of rebellion against the World Government.

Roger understood that the One Piece was Joy Boy’s means to challenge the existing world order. Despite their awareness of this truth, the Roger Pirates did not act, as they could not rally enough support against the World Government, even with a Pirate King leading them. The daunting task of overturning a centuries-old power must have appeared impossible.

One Piece: Roger’s Plan to Ignite the Great Pirate Era

Gol D. Roger laughed after reaching Laugh Tale (Image via Toei Animation)

Confronted with this reality, Roger chose to ignite the Great Pirate Era instead of acting directly, hoping to inspire others to sail forth, discover the truth, and eventually bring the change he could not achieve.

His laughter stemmed from the irony of Joy Boy’s challenge—it was simultaneously achievable and utterly out of reach during his time. He envisioned that future pirate generations might be better prepared to carry forward this mantle.

Luffy’s Opportunity to Confront Imu

Monkey D. Luffy (Image via Toei Animation)

Fast forward to Luffy’s era, where he has repeatedly encountered various injustices and fought against them, initiating systemic changes in his unique way. While not actively seeking a revolution, he naturally inspires change wherever he ventures.

When Luffy discovers the One Piece, his position will be notably different from Roger’s. Unlike Roger, Luffy has the backing of several nations already aligned with the Revolutionary Army, actively opposing the World Government.

The Revolutionary Army (Image via Toei Animation)

This alliance provides Luffy with a broader coalition to lead a rebellion. The Revolutionary Army would likely embrace such a partnership, bolstering their numbers to the cause or serving as a significant third party in the conflict.

Additionally, Luffy has forged a formidable network of pirate allies. Following the events of Dressrosa, he encouraged his allies to reach out in times of trouble, ensuring he would come to their aid. This camaraderie creates a vast pirate force ready to support him when necessary. By the time Luffy unearths the One Piece, he will be uniquely positioned to launch the war Roger couldn’t: a confrontation with Imu, the secret ruler of the world, and the World Government.

Final Thoughts

Luffy in his Gear 5 form (Image via Toei Animation)

Roger laughed because Joy Boy had provided the means to challenge the world, yet he saw no path forward in his era. Conversely, Luffy will have a robust coalition backing him in the ultimate battle against Imu. The One Piece isn’t merely a treasure; it is a pivotal instrument for overthrowing the World Government and transforming the world forever.