One Piece Chapter 1123: Sanji’s Actions Explained by Vegapunk?

Throughout the Egghead Arc, Sanji has frequently faced backlash from One Piece fans for his failure to defend Dr. Vegapunk from his adversaries. Despite Sanji’s strong efforts to rescue Vegapunk, the scientist ultimately met his demise at the hands of Admiral Kizaru’s attack and succumbed to his injuries.

Despite Sanji’s promise to Bonney that he would ensure Vegapunk’s safe return, his failure to do so is a significant flaw, particularly since he was specifically instructed by Luffy to do so. However, considering Kizaru’s incredible power, it is understandable that Sanji was unable to prevent him from fatally harming Vegapunk.

One Piece’s newest chapter reveals a deeper understanding of the relationship between Sanji and Vegapunk, exploring the cook’s emotions surrounding the scientist’s passing. Interestingly, while the rest of the Straw Hat crew celebrates, chapter 1123 showcases Sanji’s empathetic nature as he grieves for Vegapunk’s tragic end.

Please be aware that this article reflects the personal opinion of the writer and contains significant spoilers from the One Piece manga up to chapter 1123.

Latest One Piece Chapter Explores Sanji’s Emotional Struggle Over Vegapunk’s Death

The revelations in One Piece chapter 1123

According to the leaked details of One Piece chapter 1123, the chapter will include a flashback that delves into the events leading up to the Egghead Incident. This flashback takes place two weeks before the current timeline and shows Vegapunk discussing the supposed disappearance of a significant amount of energy from the Mother Flame’s power station with Shaka and Pythagoras.

After careful consideration, Vegapunk and the rest of the group arrived at the conclusion that one of the satellites was a traitor. It was a week later when Pythagoras uncovered the culprit to be York, who had been uploading fabricated memories into the Punk Records database. She even went as far as to personally discuss with the Five Elders the topics of the Mother Flame and Vegapunk’s investigations into the Void Century.

As a result of Vegapunk’s greed, York became a satellite body. Due to this, the scientist felt compelled to apologize to Shaka and Pythagoras for her actions. After Lulusia was destroyed, Vegapunk came to the conclusion that the World Government had used the stolen portion of the Mother Flame to power one of the Ancient Weapons.

Vegapunk York (Image via Toei Animation)

To thwart the World Government’s plans, Vegapunk made the decision to encode a message within Emet, the Iron Giant. He then wiped both his own and the other satellites’ memories, in order to prevent York from deciphering their clever counterstrategy.

Despite putting his plan into action, Vegapunk sealed his own fate. He left a note for himself, acknowledging that both he and the “good”satellites would soon perish as a result of their actions being exposed to the Five Elders. However, he urged them to accept this fate rather than trying to evade it.

As the scene shifted, it focused on Navy’s assault on Egghead, specifically the moment when Vegapunk joined Franky, Sanji, and Atlas in the Vegatank-08. Out of nowhere, Vegapunk begged Sanji to abandon him, believing that his sacrifice would lead to a significant outcome.

Vegapunk’s Brutal Demise

The moment that sealed Vegapunk's fate (Image via Shueisha) — The moment that sealed Vegapunk’s fate (Image via Shueisha)

Despite his reluctance, Kizaru carried out his mission to kill Vegapunk. He was torn between protecting his bond with the scientist, as well as his friends Sentomaru, Kuma, and Bonney, and fulfilling his obligations towards the World Government. In the end, the Admiral made the difficult decision to strike Vegapunk with a deadly move.

Despite having already been stabbed by Saint Saturn, the scientist’s fate was further sealed with this additional injury. As Luffy fought against Saturn, Sanji tried to shield Vegapunk from Kizaru’s attack, but the Admiral swiftly intercepted his movements and kicked him aside.

Kizaru summoned a lightsaber and proceeded to impale Vegapunk’s body. In response, Luffy activated his Gear 5 transformation to simultaneously halt Kizaru and Saturn, giving Sanji the opportunity to escape with Vegapunk. However, it was already too late as the scientist had sustained fatal injuries.

Did Sanji Intentionally Let Vegapunk Die?

According to the available information, it is difficult to believe that Sanji deliberately allowed Vegapunk to die. Despite being asked by the old scientist, Sanji never agreed to his plan. In fact, he explicitly stated to Vegapunk that he would not entertain such an absurd request.

Additionally, Luffy gave Sanji the direct order to protect Vegapunk and escort him to safety. Later, Sanji openly stated that he views his captain’s commands as absolute. It is worth mentioning that Sanji was visibly distressed when Vegapunk was attacked by Kizaru, and he even apologized to him for not being able to prevent it.

Despite Kizaru and Saturn being in Luffy’s grasp, Sanji took Vegapunk with him despite the scientist’s protests. His heart sank as Vegapunk’s consciousness gradually faded and he succumbed to his injuries.

It would be illogical for Sanji to let Vegapunk die, as per the latter’s request, considering everything that has been mentioned. Keeping this in mind, it can be assumed that Sanji did everything in his power to ensure Vegapunk’s safety, despite being aware of his wishes.

Sanji's reaction when Kizaru struck Vegapunk (Image via Shueisha) — Sanji’s reaction when Kizaru struck Vegapunk (Image via Shueisha)

Despite being completely alone, Sanji continued to show concern for Vegapunk’s well-being, even though he had no reason to do so. Although he ultimately failed to rescue Vegapunk, this only serves to make Sanji a more relatable and genuine character as a member of the Straw Hats.

Eiichiro Oda’s writing for Sanji was further showcased in One Piece chapter 1123, highlighting the character’s compassion and benevolence. In the scans, while the rest of the group rejoices over the prospect of traveling to Elbaf, Sanji is depicted standing alone beside Vegapunk’s lifeless body, contemplating the latter’s intentions.

Without the knowledge of his comrades, Sanji bears the weight of Vegapunk’s desire for death. The harsh twist of fate lies in the fact that Sanji was powerless to prevent Kizaru from taking Vegapunk’s life, fulfilling the scientist’s own wish.

Sanji definitely wasn't fine with Vegapunk dying (Image via Shueisha) — Sanji definitely wasn’t fine with Vegapunk dying (Image via Shueisha)

Similar to his experiences in Thriller Bark and Whole Cake Island, Sanji found himself shouldering a heavy burden in secret from his companions once again. From Zoro’s selfless sacrifice to Pedro’s death, he had to bear the weight of these tragedies alone, even maintaining a facade of a false smile in front of Jewelry Bonney.

Despite his frequent use of jokes, Sanji is notable for his serious and multifaceted nature. This is why he is often regarded as one of the most well-written characters in One Piece. While it may have been more impressive to see Sanji defeat Kizaru and rescue Vegapunk, having him confront a situation with no possibility of a happy ending ultimately adds depth to his character growth.

Despite being known as a powerful fighter, Sanji’s character extends far beyond that, as chapter 1123 highlights. The chapter ends with Vegapunk expressing his wish for the Straw Hat Pirates, including the blonde cook, to uncover the fabled One Piece treasure, further showcasing Sanji’s depth.