One Piece’s Elbaf arc may not be right after Egghead, and for good reason

The climax of the Egghead arc in One Piece is fast approaching. Most of the Straw Hat Pirates have boarded the Thousand Sunny, while the remaining members will be traveling with the Giants to their next destination, Elbaf Island.

Despite Oda’s previous statements suggesting that the Elbaf arc could be the last one in the series, it is still uncertain. However, if this does end up being the final arc, it would contradict the idea that the Straw Hats would leave the island unscathed. Throughout their journey on the island, Luffy has continuously pushed himself to the limit with his frequent use of Gear 5, while Zoro may also face grave injuries in his battles against Saint Nusjuro.

Therefore, if the Straw Hat Pirates were to arrive at Elbaf Island in their current condition, it would spell certain doom for them. To avoid this, they could make a detour to another island for a mini prequel to the final showdown, and what better option than Sphinx Island, a former ally. Here, the Straw Hats could take a brief break to restock their supplies and rejuvenate before embarking on their final journey to Elbaf Island.

Note: The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and may contain spoilers from the One Piece manga series.

Why the Straw Hat Pirates could make a brief stop before entering Elbaf Island?

Zoro vs. Nusjuro as seen in the manga (Image via Shueisha)

One Piece chapter 1119 revealed that nearly all of the Straw Hat Pirates had successfully boarded their ships and set off towards their next destination. Among them, Nami’s group embarked on the Thousand Sunny and navigated through the Frontier Dome, guarded by Vegapunk Edison, before encountering Zoro. However, their journey was abruptly halted by the appearance of Saint Nusjuro.

Despite Zoro’s orders for his team to continue without them, both Sanji and Luffy’s groups had also managed to board the giant’s ships, after successfully defeating Saint Marcus and reclaiming Egghead Island.

Although Saint Warcury interrupted them, the sudden arrival of Emeth gave the Straw Hat Pirates hope that their escape was not completely lost.

However, it is important for fans to remember to not get ahead of themselves in planning an escape, as the past and present must be taken into consideration. Luffy’s frequent use of Gear 5 on Egghead Island suggests that his body is facing extreme exhaustion. Meanwhile, Zoro is currently engaged in a fight against Saint Nusjuro, a swordsman whose skills may even surpass those of the strongest swordsman, Mihawk.

Hawkins' prediction as seen in the manga (Image via Shueisha) — Hawkins’ prediction as seen in the manga (Image via Shueisha)

There is a possibility that the two strongest members of the Straw Hat Pirates could sustain injuries before their departure from Egghead Island. A more impactful foreshadowing regarding the Straw Hats is revealed by Basil Hawkins during the Wano arc. Luffy and Zoro reunite on Wano Kingdom, only to be confronted by Hawkins, who was then aligned with Kaido.

As the battle began, Basil made a prediction that Luffy and Zoro had a 19% chance of surviving the upcoming month. This foreshadowing could have a significant impact on the fate of the two as they depart from Egghead Island. Therefore, it was possible for them to make a temporary stop at an island to seek medical treatment.

Sphinx Island as seen in the anime (Image via Toei Animation)

Out of all the islands in the New World, the Sphinx Island would be the most suitable destination for the Straw Hat Pirates. This island holds great significance as it is the birthplace of one of the most powerful pirates, Edward Newgate (also known as Whitebeard).

The island’s poverty and lack of control by the World Government make it the ideal location for the Straw Hats to make a brief stop and relax.

Marco as seen in the anime (Image via Toei Animation)

Chopper could receive aid from Marco, the ex-Whitebeard Pirate and present physician of Sphinx Island, in tending to Luffy and Zoro. This would be another way for Marco to honor the memory of his former crewmate, Portgas D Ace, who perished in the Battle of Marineford.

In addition to providing a much-needed rest, Sphinx Island also presents Luffy with the opportunity to pay his respects to Ace. The deserted island where Ace’s grave is located is situated near Sphinx Island. Therefore, after their escape from Egghead Island and the Five Elders, the Straw Hat Pirates could take a break at Sphinx Island before continuing on to Elbaf Island.