One Piece’s Ending May Have Three Final Villains, Not Just One, and Each Will Play a Key Different Role

The highly anticipated final arc of One Piece is approaching, following the conclusion of the Egghead arc. Fans are eagerly looking forward to seeing the Straw Hat Pirates train on Elbaf Island and reach new levels of strength. The author of the series has already announced the final arc, leaving fans to wonder who will be the ultimate antagonist that the Straw Hat Pirates will encounter on Elbaf Island.

It is quite surprising to note that the series may feature three antagonists, given the connection between Elbaf Island and Norse mythology. The World Government Leader Imu, Fleet Admiral Sakazuki, and Emperor Blackbeard could potentially have equally important roles in the climax, with their involvement being indicated by the levels of Yggdrasil.

Note: This article contains spoilers from the One Piece manga series.

One Piece: Exploring the Possible Trifecta of Final Villains in the Series

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

The mythical tree Yggdrasil, known for its nine levels or worlds symbolizing various elements, holds great significance in Norse mythology. This tree has often been associated with Elbaf Island due to their shared connection with the Giants, as the island is their homeland.

As of One Piece chapter 1124, the Straw Hat Pirates are headed towards Elbaf Island, but it is still uncertain who will be the ultimate antagonist they will encounter there. To understand this better, let’s examine the various levels of Yggdrasil and how they relate to the three main antagonists of the series.

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

Imu, also known as Im-sama, holds the title of Supreme Leader in the World Government and occupies the Empty Throne in the Holy Land of Mariejois. Despite being surrounded by an air of mystery, it is widely known that Imu has a connection with Nefartari Lili and the legendary pirate JoyBoy, who were among the first to sail the Grand Line.

The White Sea, located at the top of Yggdrasil, is considered to be heaven. This is mentioned in chapter 1123 when Vegapunk discusses the significance of his cloud-producing technology, which would ultimately benefit humanity. The existence of Uranus, an ancient weapon, remains one of the greatest enigmas surrounding technology.

During Vegapunk’s stream, it was hinted that the Ancient Weapon may be in the possession of the World Government and could potentially be controlled by Imu. This would establish Imu as the ultimate antagonist in the eyes of Yggdrasil and one of the most formidable adversaries in the series. Imu could potentially serve as the ultimate challenge for the Straw Hats or the Revolutionary Army on Elbaf Island.

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

The Blue Sea, located at the center of Yggdrasil or Earth, is also the setting for the series. The World Government claims to uphold peace in the world, making it clear that Fleet Admiral Akainu would be the final obstacle for the Straw Hat Pirates.

Additionally, since the Blackbeard Pirates are also heading to Elbaf Island, the series could potentially feature a clash between Akainu and Aokiji, shedding more light on their epic battle on Punk Hazard to determine the next Fleet Admiral.

Given the connection to Norse mythology, it is possible that Akainu’s logia fruit awakening could be linked to Surtr, the god of fire and the most powerful of the fire giants. This aligns with his portrayal as the ultimate antagonist in the story.

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

Finally, the depths of Yggdrasil are believed to be the underworld, possibly connecting it to Emperor Marshall D. Teech. Furthermore, since Teech recruited the majority of his crew from the depths of Impel Down, it is possible that he will ultimately become the ultimate antagonist of the underworld.

According to his opponents, the Straw Hat Pirates would not be the ones facing off against the Blackbeard Pirates. Instead, the Cross Guild is likely to be the opponent in the showdown, given the Buggy Pirates’ well-known motto of following their captain to the “depths of hell.”

Similar to Akainu, Teech may also have connections to a figure from Norse mythology. It is possible that Marshal D. Teech is linked to Níðhöggr, the dragon who resides at the depths of Yggdrasil. As a legendary creature, this dragon could potentially serve as the inspiration for the introduction of new races in the storyline, as hinted at by Vegapunk during his speech.