One Piece: Future Prospects for the Cross Guild

Essential Insights

Buggy the Clown has ascended to Yonko status unexpectedly and could play a critical part in the Final Saga.
Crocodile’s Cross Guild might pursue former Warlords for recruitment, posing a significant threat to the World Government.
Mihawk seeks a formidable opponent, likely culminating in a clash with Zoro by the story’s conclusion.

Following the Marineford War, the One Piece narrative witnessed significant shifts in the power dynamics within the pirate realm. The passing of the iconic Whitebeard left a void in the New World, igniting fierce competition among pirates vying for his territory. This intensified rivalries, giving birth to new Yonko fleets.

Among these new Yonko crews, the emergence of the Cross Guild stands out. Led by the comical Buggy the Clown, this vast criminal syndicate is shrouded in intrigue regarding its true ambitions. Let’s explore what the future may hold for Buggy and his fellow high-ranking members as the story approaches its climax.

Buggy’s Future Prospects

The Destiny of This Yonko

First Appearance	One Piece, Chapter 9, “The Devil Girl”
Story Arc	Orange Town Arc

Buggy the Clown is a fan favorite, beloved not only by audiences but by the creator, Eiichiro Oda, as well. His journey represents the epitome of serendipity; his plans rarely unfold as intended, yet he continues to rise—often from his own blunders. This uncanny luck has led him from a minor pirate to an Emperor of the Sea.

Despite his accidental elevation to Yonko, this has rekindled his long-standing ambition to uncover the One Piece and attain the title of Pirate King. Many fans speculate that Buggy will be pivotal in the Final Saga, potentially even reaching Laugh Tale.

You’re the first man to ascend as an Emperor after saying “I’m sorry”…

Rather than opposing Luffy and the Straw Hats in pursuit of the treasure, it’s likely he forms an alliance with them, recognizing Luffy’s similarities to Gol D. Roger, whom Buggy deeply admired. Furthermore, with Shanks backing Luffy, Buggy might just emerge as a crucial ally for the Straw Hats as they confront both his own crew and the World Government.

Humorous theories also abound regarding Buggy’s fate. Given his extraordinary luck, some believe his Devil Fruit might venture into ‘Luck-Luck Fruit’ territory, granting him uncanny salvations. This has led to speculation that he could, through mere chance, discover the One Piece before any other character.

Prospects for Crocodile

The Vision of the Cross Guild’s Architect

First Appearance	One Piece, Chapter 126, “Instinct”
Story Arc	Little Garden Arc

Crocodile stands out as one of the most formidable antagonists in One Piece. Although he is a ruthless combatant wielding powerful Devil Fruit abilities, it’s his intellect that truly sets him apart. His strategic mind was integral to the formation of the Cross Guild, partnering him with former foe Dracule Mihawk to create a serious threat to the World Government.

The Cross Guild concept originated from me and Hawk-Eyes! Why did you end up labeled as the boss, Buggy?

Crocodile’s ambitions are complex; he aims to establish an ideal world while acquiring immense power. Speculations abound that the Cross Guild intends to recruit former Warlords of the Sea, potentially forming the most formidable Yonko crew, ready to challenge the World Government. If Buggy claims the title of Pirate King, it could further bolster their power.

Mihawk’s New Directions

The Future of the Greatest Swordsman

First Appearance	One Piece, Chapter 49, “Storm”
Story Arc	Baratie Arc

Mihawk, the first among the original 7 Shichibukai to be introduced, remains one of the most enigmatic characters within the series. His reputation for unparalleled prowess has allowed him to travel the seas solo, following his own whims. However, during the time skip, he unwittingly became Zoro’s mentor and now stands as a key player in the Cross Guild alongside Crocodile.

Press on with that fierce determination and aim to surpass my sword! Outdo me, Roronoa Zoro!

Notably powerful enough to stand against Shanks, Mihawk has thus far held back, believing an advantage exists due to Shanks’ lost arm. Instead, he currently drifts across the seas in search of a worthy adversary, likely culminating in an epic showdown with Zoro by the series’ end. By aligning with the Cross Guild, Mihawk positions himself to challenge Zoro and ascertain who truly claims the title of the strongest swordsman in the One Piece universe.

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